Myrtle Beach City Limits Map
Myrtle Beach, located on the east coast of South Carolina, is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, endless entertainment options, and rich history. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, there’s something for everyone in this charming southern city. In this guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of top attractions that are must-sees for any traveler. First on the list is the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a 1.2-mile oceanfront promenade that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Other popular attractions include the Broadway at the Beach outdoor shopping and entertainment complex, the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, and the Family Kingdom Amusement Park.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t forget to explore some of Myrtle Beach’s hidden gems. One such gem is the Myrtle Beach State Park, a 312-acre park with hiking trails, fishing piers, and a nature center. Another hidden gem is the Huntington Beach State Park, a beautiful park with a pristine beach, hiking trails, and a castle-like structure called Atalaya Castle.
Food Scene
Myrtle Beach is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit any taste and budget. Seafood is a must-try here, with fresh catches being served up at many local restaurants. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Lowcountry boils. For a sweet treat, head to the famous Croissants Bistro & Bakery for some of the best pastries and desserts in town.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Myrtle Beach on a budget? No problem! There are plenty of ways to save money while still having a great time. Look for hotel and restaurant deals online, take advantage of happy hour specials, and visit some of the free attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and the beaches. You can also save money by cooking some of your own meals in your hotel room or renting a vacation home with a kitchen.
Outdoor Adventures
With its beautiful beaches, parks, and nature preserves, Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a kayak tour of the Waccamaw River, go fishing on one of the many piers, or hike through the Myrtle Beach State Park. For a more adrenaline-packed adventure, try parasailing or jet skiing on the ocean.
Historical Landmarks
Myrtle Beach is steeped in history, and there are many landmarks and museums dedicated to preserving the city’s past. Visit the Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum to learn about the city’s African American history, or take a tour of the Atalaya Castle to see a unique piece of architecture. You can also visit the Myrtle Beach History Museum to learn about the city’s evolution from a small seaside town to a popular vacation destination.
Family-Friendly Activities
Myrtle Beach is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids of all ages will enjoy. Visit the Ripley’s Aquarium to see a variety of marine life, or head to the WonderWorks indoor amusement park for a day of fun and learning. The Myrtle Beach Pelicans minor league baseball team also offers family-friendly entertainment during the season.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Myrtle Beach has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Take a ghost tour of the city, visit the world’s largest collection of figurative art at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum, or attend a live performance at the Carolina Opry.
Natural Wonders
From the beaches to the parks, Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of natural wonders. Take a stroll along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk to see the Atlantic Ocean up close, or head inland to the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also visit the Brookgreen Gardens to see a beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve.
Vibrant Nightlife
Myrtle Beach comes alive at night, with a variety of bars, clubs, and entertainment options for visitors. Head to the House of Blues for live music, or visit the Comedy Cabana for a night of laughs. The Myrtle Beach area is also home to several casinos that offer gaming and entertainment.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, be sure to visit some of the local markets in Myrtle Beach. The Myrtle Beach Farmers Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors, while the Hammock Shops Village is home to a variety of shops and restaurants in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
Beaches and Mountains
Myrtle Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, but did you know that it’s also close to the mountains? Take a day trip to the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. You can also visit the nearby town of Conway for a taste of small-town charm.
Cultural Immersion
Myrtle Beach is a melting pot of cultures, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Stadium to see a game and learn about America’s favorite pastime, or attend a performance at the Long Bay Symphony to experience classical music. You can also visit the Myrtle Beach Art Museum to see a variety of local and regional art.
Art and Music Scene
Speaking of art and music, Myrtle Beach has a thriving scene for both. Visit the Alabama Theatre for live music and entertainment, or attend the Art in the Park festival to see a variety of local and regional art. You can also visit the Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival to experience some of the best jazz music in the region.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to see Myrtle Beach is on foot, and there are many walking tours available for visitors. Take a historical walking tour of the city to learn about its rich past, or take a ghost tour to hear some of the city’s spooky tales. You can also take a culinary walking tour to sample some of the best local cuisine.
Architectural Marvels
Myrtle Beach is home to many architectural marvels that are worth a visit. The Atalaya Castle is a unique piece of architecture, while the Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum is a historic building that has been restored to its former glory. You can also visit the Myrtle Beach Train Depot to see a beautiful example of Victorian architecture.
Historical Sites
As we’ve mentioned, Myrtle Beach has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites. Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk to see the iconic SkyWheel, or take a tour of the Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum to learn about the city’s African American history. You can also visit the Horry County Museum to see a variety of exhibits on the history of the region.
Biking Routes
For a fun and active way to explore Myrtle Beach, consider renting a bike and hitting one of the many biking routes in the area. The Waccamaw Neck Bikeway is a popular choice, with a 12-mile trail that winds through the beautiful Lowcountry. You can also bike along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for stunning ocean views.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation, Myrtle Beach has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. The Yoga in Common studio offers a variety of yoga classes, while the Beach House Spa offers a range of spa treatments and packages. You can also visit the nearby town of Pawleys Island for a variety of wellness and holistic retreats.
Adventure Sports
Finally, for the adrenaline junkies, Myrtle Beach has plenty of adventure sports to offer. Try your hand at parasailing or jet skiing on the ocean, or take a zipline tour of the nearby forests. You can also try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing for a fun and challenging adventure.
With so much to see and do in Myrtle Beach, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular vacation destination. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. So start planning your trip today, and get ready to discover all that this charming southern city has to offer!