From sky-high views to lazy waterfront strolls, here’s where we actually go
Locals know Myrtle Beach is more than mini golf and souvenir shops. From beachy boardwalks to hidden green spaces and spots you’ll want to eat, drink, and stay a while—these are the places we actually go. Whether you’re new in town or just want to see Myrtle like we do, here are 10 must-see attractions that are totally worth your time.
Broadway at the Beach
If Myrtle Beach had a beating heart, Broadway at the Beach would be it. This sprawling 350-acre playground offers everything from shops and restaurants to live shows and late-night karaoke. Whether you’re wrangling kids or looking to get rowdy with friends, there’s something for everyone—including Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, and the infamous Hollywood Wax Museum. And did we mention the fish? Yeah, the man-made lake is home to tens of thousands of them. Feeding frenzies encouraged.
Myrtle Beach SkyWheel
Want to see Myrtle Beach from a whole new altitude? Buckle into one of the climate-controlled gondolas on the 200-foot-tall SkyWheel and prepare to be wowed. You’ll get a jaw-dropping, panoramic view of the coast—and if you go at night, the lit-up wheel makes the whole experience feel downright magical. Pro tip: ride it once during the day, then again after dark. It’s a double feature that never gets old.
Brookgreen Gardens
Art, history, and nature all walk into a garden. The punchline? Brookgreen. Located in nearby Murrells Inlet, this 9,000-acre National Historic Landmark features the largest collection of American figurative sculpture in the country. Think curated elegance meets Southern charm, with live oaks, alligators, and a zoo to boot. If you’re not swooning over a sculpture, you’ll be marveling at a heron or sipping wine during one of their many garden events.
Myrtle Beach State Park
This isn’t your average strip of sand. Myrtle Beach State Park offers a peaceful, preserved slice of the coast with just the right amount of amenities. Stroll the shady nature trails, cast a line from the pier, or stake out a quiet corner of beach far from the chaos of the Boardwalk. If you’re feeling ambitious, spend the night—campgrounds here let you fall asleep to crashing waves and wake up with the sunrise. It’s as dreamy as it sounds.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
There’s something oddly perfect about sipping a local beer while watching a pelican dive for its dinner. That’s the magic of the MarshWalk. This half-mile boardwalk meanders along a natural saltwater estuary, giving front-row seats to epic sunsets, fresh-caught seafood, and live music just about every night of the week. You’ll find kayak rentals, fishing charters, and enough hush puppies to feed an army. Bonus: the people-watching is world-class.
Barefoot Landing
Less tourist trap, more riverside retreat, Barefoot Landing is a favorite for those who like their shopping sprees with a side of nature. Set on the Intracoastal Waterway and wrapped around a 27-acre lake, this open-air complex is part boutique village, part wildlife encounter. Catch a show at the Alabama Theatre, say hello to a gator at Alligator Adventure, or just sip wine as turtles sunbathe beside you. Bring comfy shoes and an appetite—you’ll need both.
Huntington Beach State Park
Located a bit off the beaten path in Murrells Inlet, Huntington Beach State Park feels like a total reset. This untouched stretch of coastline is where locals go to get their Zen on. Think uncrowded beaches, boardwalk trails through salt marshes, and the haunting beauty of Atalaya Castle—a Moorish-style mansion with a history as rich as its architecture. Bird watchers, take note: the park’s winged residents are top-notch, and so is the peace and quiet.
The Market Common
Don’t let the words “shopping district” fool you—The Market Common is far more than a mall. Built on a former Air Force base, this meticulously planned urban village serves up boutiques, green spaces, killer dining, and even a movie theater. Walkable and stylish, it’s where you go to grab brunch, browse, and maybe stumble into a wine tasting or pop-up art show. Plus, the vibes are always chill and the events calendar is surprisingly stacked.
Myrtle Beach Pelicans
Forget the big leagues—minor league baseball has all the charm without the chaos. The Myrtle Beach Pelicans, the Class A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, play in one of the most beloved ballparks in the Carolinas. It’s family-friendly, low-pressure, and yes, there are fireworks. Snag a seat on the lawn, grab a local brew, and prepare for giveaways, theme nights, and maybe even a foul ball. Warning: you might get way too into it.
Tanger Outlets
You didn’t come to the beach just to sunbathe, did you? For retail therapy that doesn’t break the bank, head to Tanger Outlets. With two convenient locations (Highway 17 and Highway 501), this shopper’s paradise offers deals on everything from high-end fashion to housewares. Insider tip: join the TangerClub for extra discounts. And maybe bring a suitcase—just in case your “window shopping” turns into a full-blown spree.
