Sunsets, shell hunts, secret gardens and more—your best Myrtle Beach days don’t have to cost a thing.
You don’t need a big budget to enjoy a full, unforgettable day on the Grand Strand. From quiet riverside boardwalks and shell-speckled beaches to sunset strolls and live music with a sea breeze, there’s a whole side of Myrtle Beach that’s 100% free and 100% worth your time. Here’s your go-to list of where to go and what to do when you want the full experience—without pulling out your wallet.
1. The Conway Riverwalk: History with a View
This 1.3-mile stretch along the Waccamaw River feels like stepping into a postcard. You’ll pass old shipping markers, giant cypress knees, and public art tucked into shady corners. It’s peaceful, scenic, and just a few blocks from downtown events like movie nights and seasonal festivals.
2. Sunset Watching: Golden Hour, Myrtle-Style
Don’t sleep on East Coast sunsets—they hit different here. Watch the sky light up from 2nd Avenue Pier, MarshWalk, or a quiet inlet spot like Myrtle Beach State Park. Want fewer crowds? Time it for 15 minutes after the sun dips. That’s when the real glow shows up.
3. The Market Common: A Fancy Free Stroll
This is where upscale meets ultra-chill. Browse the boutique windows, stroll the shaded paths, and let the kids run wild at Savannah’s Playground. There are free community events happening all the time—live music, trivia nights, sidewalk sales—just check their Facebook or calendar before you go.
4. Shell Hunting: Tide-Timed Treasure Hunts
Low tide mornings are your best bet, especially after storms or full moons. Huntington Beach State Park and 67th Ave N are top spots for everything from whelks to shark teeth. Bring a mesh bag and an eye for the shiny stuff—locals say Pawleys Island is prime for sand dollars.
5. Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens: Quiet Coastal Gold
This Little River gem has 2.4 miles of trails through marsh, forest, and along the Intracoastal. There’s a gazebo, a Revolutionary War-era cemetery, and a Wishing Tree with handwritten hopes hanging from the branches. Bring comfy shoes and a camera—it’s peaceful and photogenic in every direction.
6. Murrells Inlet MarshWalk: Music, Marsh Views, and Vibes
This half-mile wooden boardwalk is a local fave for a reason. It’s free, full of live music in the evenings, and you’ll probably spot a heron or two. Go around sunset to see the marsh turn to liquid gold. Free restrooms and parking? Even better.
7. Garden City Pier: Sunrise Views and Free Breezes
You can walk this 668-foot pier any time of year without paying a cent. Watch surfers in the morning or catch live music in the summer evenings—it’s all visible from the walkway. Post-storm, the beach here is a shelling jackpot, and the arcade at the base is perfect for families.
8. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: The Main Event—Free, 24/7
Stretching over a mile, this oceanfront promenade is full of energy—no ticket required. Street performers, festivals, live music at Plyler Park, and sculpture-studded parks line the way. Go in the morning for quiet ocean views, or at night when the neon turns up and the party kicks in.
Quick Tips to Max Out the Free Fun
- Plan your timing: Low tide is best for shelling. Sunsets are better than you think, especially from marshy spots.
- Bring the basics: Water, sunscreen, a mesh shell bag, and comfy shoes go a long way.
- Build your perfect day: Start with sunrise at Garden City Pier, cruise The Market Common in the afternoon, and wrap up with a MarshWalk sunset.
Check event calendars: Market Common, MarshWalk, and Conway are always rolling out something fun—and yes, it’s often free.
