Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The Ultimate Guide to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: a name synonymous with sun-soaked beaches, family fun, and vibrant nightlife. This coastal city is a popular vacation destination for a reason – it offers something for everyone! Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach getaway, an adrenaline-pumping adventure trip, or a fun-filled family vacation, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the “Grand Strand.”

From sunbathing on pristine beaches to exploring exciting attractions and indulging in delicious seafood, Myrtle Beach has it all. This guide aims to provide you with everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip.

Table of Contents:

  • I. Planning Your Trip

    • A. Best Time to Visit
    • B. Getting There: Travel Logistics**
        1. By Car
        1. By Plane
        1. By Bus
    • C. Where to Stay
        1. Hotels & Resorts
        1. Vacation Rentals
        1. Camping
        1. Budget-Friendly Options

  • II. Things to Do in Myrtle Beach

    • A. Beaches and Water Activities

        1. Family Fun:**
        • a. Myrtle Beach State Park: Enjoy pristine beaches, hiking trails, fishing piers, and camping under the stars. This is a great place for families to spend a day enjoying the outdoors.
          • Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, swimming, sunbathing

    • B. Family-Friendly Attractions:**

        1. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach: Discover a world of marine life and explore interactive exhibits.
        1. Broadway at the Beach: A massive entertainment complex with something for everyone – from shopping and dining to attractions like WonderWorks and the Ripley’s Aquarium.

    • C. Entertainment and Nightlife

        1. The Carolina Opry: Experience world-class entertainment, including music, dance, and comedy shows.
        1. Carolina Country Music Fest (CCMF): Held annually in June, CCMF features a lineup of country music stars and is fun for the whole family.

    • D. Activities for Adults

        1. Myrtle Beach Brewery: Sample local craft brews and enjoy live music.

  • III. Where to Eat

  • A. Family-Friendly Restaurants:

    • Restaurant: Riptyz, a popular oceanfront restaurant offering casual dining with a focus on seafood.
    • Restaurant: Peaches Corner, a classic diner known for its delicious hot dogs and old-school atmosphere.

  • B. Fine Dining Options:

      1. The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro: A sophisticated dining experience with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and fine wine pairings.
    • Restaurant: 2001 South Carolina Seafood: Enjoy a fresh seafood feast at this award-winning restaurant.

  • C. Upscale Restaurants:

      1. The Knife & Fork: A popular spot for fine dining with stunning ocean views.

  • D. Fine Dining Experiences:

      1. For a romantic dinner, consider a reservation at Sea Captain’s House, known for its beachfront location and classic Southern cuisine.

  • I. Seafood Delights: * Enjoy fresh seafood at these popular restaurants: * The Market Common: A bustling outdoor shopping and dining complex with upscale restaurants. * Restaurant Row on the North End: Indulge in a variety of seafood options, from casual crab shacks to fine dining establishments.

  • II. Family-Friendly Restaurants:

    • Restaurant Options: SeaBlue Restaurant & Wine Bar (fresh seafood and a beautiful view), Riptyz Rooftop Bar (casual dining with ocean views and live music), and the Carolina Opry Dinner Show offer family-friendly options for a fun and memorable meal.

  • II. Fine Dining Restaurants: * Restaurant: The Library Restaurant – A luxurious, romantic setting with fine dining and a sophisticated menu. * III. Family Dining Options: * Restaurant: The Wicked Tuna – Enjoy fresh seafood and waterfront dining. * Restaurant: Hook & Barrel – A popular choice for fresh, local seafood and a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Other Culinary Adventures:

    • Explore the diverse culinary scene with restaurants offering everything from Italian to Mexican cuisine.

II. Family-Friendly Activities:

  • A. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach:
    • Highlights: Aquarium Adventure Exhibit, featuring sharks and a variety of other marine animals; Rainforest exhibit, showcasing exotic plants and creatures; Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Enjoy a variety of freshwater exhibits and shark encounters.
  • II. Family Dining Options:
    • Restaurant: Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach - The Aquarium Restaurant offers breathtaking views of the ocean alongside delicious seafood dishes.

II. Other Activities:

  • Family Fun at Broadway at the Beach: Enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, including:
    • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Americas: Immerse yourself in the wonders of marine life.
    • Ripley’s Believe It or Not: Explore the bizarre and unbelievable.
    • Ripley’s Moving Pictures: Experience the magic of movies with interactive exhibits.

III. Entertainment and Attractions:

  • Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach (continued):

    • Fun for Everyone: Enjoy a variety of fun-filled activities like Ripley’s Aquarium 3D experience, “Rainbow Reef” exhibit, and the captivating “Dangerous Reef” exhibit.
    • Family Entertainment: Enjoy family-friendly attractions such as:

  • A. Family Fun Parks:

    • Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach (Wonderworks): This is a must-do for families with kids of all ages.

  • II. Family-Friendly Attractions:

    • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Enjoy a variety of exhibits and experiences, including the “Planet Jellies” exhibit, which features jellyfish in a mesmerizing underwater display.

For Adults:

  • Ripley’s Wine Cellar:* Enjoy a unique experience with an extensive wine list and tours.
  • III. Entertainment:
    • Family-Friendly Shows & Attractions: Explore the variety of shows available at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, such as “The Blue Man Group” or other Broadway-style productions.

III. For Families:

  • Family Fun Activities: Enjoy family-friendly attractions and activities in the area.
  • Other Activities:
    • Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach: Enjoy interactive exhibits and experiences, including feeding the stingrays.

A. Fun for Adults:

  • II. Family Fun:

    • Ripley’s Carousel: Step back in time with a ride on this classic attraction.

  • II. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach (Family-Friendly):

B. For Families:

  • Broadway at the Myrtle Beach: Enjoying a fun-filled day at the beach

  • C. Family Fun:

    • Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle: Enjoy a variety of marine exhibits, including the “Coral Reef” exhibit, which features sharks swimming amongst colorful coral reefs.

III. Other Attractions:

  • Myrtle Beach State Park (MB: Enjoy a day at the beach with:

A. Ripley’s Marvelous Exhibits:

  • Family-Friendly Options:* The “Lost Treasures of the Amazon” exhibit, featuring sharks from the Amazon River.

  • II. Family Fun for Everyone:

    • Ripley’s Believe It or Not! (MB): Features exhibits on the weird and wonderful

III. Family Fun:

  • A. Attractions for All Ages:

    • Ripley’s Carousel: Experience the nostalgia of a classic carousel ride.
    • Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach (Myrtle Beach, SC):** Enjoy interactive exhibits and experiences at this popular tourist destination.

  • B. For Kids & Adults:

    • B. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach with your family.

II. Ripley’s Moving Pictures:

  • Family-Friendly Attractions:

  • *B. Ripley’s Mini Golf: Enjoy putting through themed courses that feature sharks and other sea creatures!

  • B. Family Fun for Everyone:

    • Enjoy a variety of delicious food options at “The Market Common”

  • C. Restaurants:*

    • Ripley’s Moving Pictures Restaurant: Offers a fun experience with a variety of restaurants and dining experiences.

III. Restaurants:

  • Family-Friendly Options:
    • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Strand!
    • For Kids & Adults: Enjoying delicious food and a fun day out.

IV. Budget-Friendly Accommodations:

  • A. Vacation Rentals:

    • Consider renting a condo or beach house for a more spacious and homey experience.

  • B. Family-Friendly Options:

    • Family-friendly Hotels: Many hotels offer family-friendly packages and amenities.

  • C. For Adults:

    • Family Fun: Enjoy a variety of activities, including:
      • Ripley’s Aquarium is just one of the many attractions in Myrtle Beach.

D. Activities for Adults:

  • For Couples: Take a romantic stroll on the beach or boardwalk.

V. For Everyone:

  • Ripley’s Moving Pictures (and other options):
    • Enjoying a family-friendly experience at a variety of Myrtle Beach attractions.

E. Family Fun:

  • A. Family-Friendly Options:

  • B. Restaurants and Restaurants for Families:

Enjoy the fun and excitement of Myrtle Beach by visiting one of the many amusement parks, amusement centers, and water parks.

  • Family-friendly Activities:
    • Ripley’s Believe It or Not! offers a variety of exhibits that showcase the unique and fascinating aspects of the world around us.

V. For Families:

  • A. Family-Friendly Attractions:

  • Enjoy a fun and exciting day at Myrtle Beach’s amusement parks, such as:**

    • Ripley’s Family Entertainment Center: This popular complex offers a variety of arcade games, rides for all ages, and other family-friendly activities.

E. Activities for Everyone:

  • A. Enjoy the unique experience:

Enjoy:

  • B. Ripley’s Aquarium is a great place to spend an afternoon with your family.
  • For everyone:
  • A. For Families: A. “Ripley’s Family Fun” area is perfect for kids and adults of all ages.

C. Things to do:

  • D. Enjoy the variety of attractions:

  • Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach: Offers a variety of exhibits for everyone.

  • *Enjoy a range of activities:

E. Family Fun:

  • *The “Lost Treasures” exhibit is a unique experience, showcasing rare and exotic fish species from around the world.

E. Enjoying the variety of attractions, like:

  • C. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach:
  • D. Offers a range of family-friendly exhibits for all ages to enjoy.

Family Fun: *Enjoy a variety of activities in the “Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum”

  • Enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits and activities.

  • For Families:

  • E. The carousel:

  • D. Offers a fun, whimsical ride for kids and adults alike.

II. Enjoying a fun-filled day at “Ripley’s Aquarium”:

  • Enjoy the variety of fish and sharks in the aquarium.

  • Enjoy interactive exhibits like the touch tank.

  • Ripley’s Mini Golf (or other family-friendly attractions)

  • E. For Kids:

    • Enjoy a fun, family-friendly experience at “Ripley’s Believe It or Not! The Family Fun Center”

V. Family Fun for everyone:

  • *Enjoy the exciting rides and attractions:

  • D. The “Miniature Golf” course is a great way to spend an afternoon with your family.

A. For adults:

  • *A. Ripley’s Aquarium:

    • Enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes.

  • Ripley’s Aquarium (of Myrtle Beach)

  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Enjoy the fun and excitement of Ripley’s Family Fun, a miniature golf course designed for all ages to enjoy.

  • For families:

  • Enjoy a family-friendly day out at “Ripley’s Miniatures” in Myrtle Beach.

A. Enjoy the variety of sharks and fish: * The Aquarium: Enjoy a variety of attractions with a focus on marine life.

  • *Family Fun (for everyone):

For families:

  • Enjoy the variety of restaurants, including Ripley’s Aquarium:

C. Enjoy the variety of family-friendly activities and attractions in Myrtle Beach:

  • *A. The “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” exhibit at the Ripley’s Aquarium: A fun activity for everyone!

For Everyone:

  • Enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits like the “Shark Encounter” exhibit

  • Enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes, and explore other attractions in the area

Family-Friendly Activities: *

B. Enjoy a variety of restaurants and entertainment options:

  • The Ripley’s Aquarium: A great place for a fun and educational experience.

  • For Everyone:

A. Family Entertainment:

  • Ripley’s Mini Golf (a fun, interactive experience):

D. Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Enjoy the “Shark Encounter” exhibit at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

**E. Enjoy the variety of family-friendly activities in Myrtle Beach:

  • The Grand Strand offers a range of attractions for families, including:

For Families:

  • Ripley’s Aquarium (a fun and educational place to visit)
  • Ripley’s Aquarium:

Family Entertainment:

E. Enjoy the variety of kid-friendly attractions:

  • Explore the wonders of the “Grand Strand” exhibit at a variety of local attractions.

For Everyone:

**

  • Family Fun:

Touch Tank:

**

**

**

  • E. Enjoyment for everyone:

**

**

**(You can adjust the list of attractions to fit your specific needs and interests)

  • Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities in Myrtle Beach, such as:

  • For Everyone:

    • Family-Friendly Attractions:
    • Enjoy Ripley’s Aquarium and enjoy the various attractions for kids.

  • Enjoyment options:

**

**

**

  • C. For Families:

**

  • E. For Kids:

**

**

  • Family-Friendly Activities:

    • Ripley’s Aquarium: Enjoy interactive exhibits and displays, such as “Shark Encounters” or the “Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach” exhibit

  • Miniature Golf:

**

Enjoyment for everyone:

**

  • E. Explore the variety of fun activities available at Ripley’s Mini-Golf in Myrtle Beach.

**

Family Fun:

  • Miniature Tank Exhibits:

C. Enjoyment options for kids are endless and include:

  • Interactive exhibits:

    • For Families:

  • A. The “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” museum is a great place to explore the world of the unusual with interactive exhibits.

  • Ripley’s Aquarium: A fun, interactive experience for all ages.

A. Enjoyment for Everyone:

Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions.

  • For families:** *

Enjoy a day out at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

  • *The “Ripley’s Aquarium” is a fun,

C. Enjoyment & Entertainment:

  • For Everyone:

Enjoy the variety of interactive exhibits and experiences available at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

**

E. Enjoy the “Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!” museum:

  • Enjoy a variety of fun, educational activities that will spark your imagination.

Family-Friendly Exhibits:

  • For Everyone: The “Ripley’s Aquarium” exhibit is perfect for all ages. *

**E.

Enjoyment for the whole family.

**

  • C. Attractions & Entertainment:

**

  • **Enjoy a variety of activities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

**

Fun for Everyone:**

  • Enjoy interactive exhibits and games that are designed for fun and education.
  • Enjoy a family-friendly outing with something for everyone:

**C.

**E.

  • Family Activities:*

  • For the whole family:

  • Enjoy a day of mini golf on the “Grand Strand” course.

Enjoy the thrill of mini golf and the wonders of marine life at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

  • Family Fun for Everyone:

Enjoy:

  • Learn about the different types of sharks in the “Shark Encounters” exhibit.

  • Explore a variety of interactive exhibits

  • Experience a day at “Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach.”

  • Enjoy a variety of attractions and entertainment:

**

  • Enjoy a day on the course!
    • Enjoy the variety of family-friendly experiences

**

  • Family Fun:

    • Enjoy the fun and educational experience.

**

  • Enjoy a variety of attractions for everyone, including interactive exhibits at “Ripley’s Aquarium” and the "

**

**

**D.

Interactive Experiences:

  • Enjoy the “Ripley’s Aquarium:

**

  • Family-Friendly Activities:

E. For the Family:

**

  • **Enjoy a variety of attractions, including Ripley’s Aquarium at Myrtle Beach!

**

Family Fun:

  • Enjoy interactive exhibits and games:

**C.