Planning a vacation the whole family will enjoy can be a challenge, but Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is one destination that delivers on all fronts. With its stunning beaches, thrilling attractions, and family-friendly activities in the Myrtle Beach area, it’s the perfect spot for creating unforgettable memories with your children. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone.
This guide covers the top things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids, from amusement parks to nature adventures. Plus, we’ll share pro tips for planning your trip, so you can focus on what really matters: spending quality time with your family.
Planning Your Trip | Things to Do in Myrtle Beach with Kids
Before jumping into activities, a smooth trip starts with a well-thought-out plan. Picking the right accommodations can set the tone for your vacation. Here are some tips:
Kid-Friendly Hotels in Myrtle Beach
-
Hotels with Waterparks
Many Myrtle Beach resorts, like Dunes Village Resort, include indoor waterparks with lazy rivers and slides, making it easy to keep the kids entertained for hours.
-
Family-Focused Amenities
Look for hotels with game rooms, playgrounds, and kid-friendly dining options. Finding a resort with daily housekeeping will also give you a much-needed break.
-
Space for the Whole Family
Condos with two or three bedrooms provide ample space for families and often come with fully equipped kitchens for easy meal prep.
Now that your accommodations are sorted, let’s explore what to do during your stay.
Myrtle Beach Events and Festivals
Myrtle Beach is not just about sun and sand; it’s also a hub of vibrant events and festivals that cater to all ages and interests. Throughout the year, the city’s calendar is packed with activities that promise fun and excitement for the whole family.
One of the standout events is the Myrtle Beach Air Show, where you can witness breathtaking aerial performances and explore static displays of aircraft. It’s a thrilling experience that will leave both kids and adults in awe. For those who love to run, the Myrtle Beach Marathon attracts participants from all over the country, offering a scenic route along the coastline.
Motorcycle enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Myrtle Beach Bike Week, a lively event featuring parades, rallies, and live music. Foodies will delight in the Myrtle Beach Food and Wine Festival, which showcases the city’s culinary scene with wine tastings and cooking demonstrations. And if you’re a fan of country music, the Carolina Country Music Festival is a three-day extravaganza featuring top artists in the genre.
Seafood lovers will enjoy the Myrtle Beach Seafood Festival, celebrating the city’s rich seafood heritage with delicious food, live music, and activities for kids. As the holiday season approaches, the Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade brings festive cheer with colorful floats, marching bands, and a special appearance by Santa Claus.
These events and festivals make Myrtle Beach an ideal destination for families, offering a diverse range of activities that ensure everyone has a memorable time.
Beach and Outdoor Activities
The Grand Strand Beaches
Your Myrtle Beach adventure starts on the sand. Stretching 60 miles along the coastline, the Grand Strand offers soft sands and gentle waves, ideal for kids.
- What to Do: Collect seashells, build sandcastles, or take a stroll along the iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Don’t miss oceanfront dining at spots like Rip Tydz for delicious seafood with a view.
- Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and score the best spot on the beach.
Parks and Playgrounds
Give your kids a break from the ocean with a visit to one of Myrtle Beach’s many parks.
- Where to Go: Chapin Memorial Park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and shaded walking trails.
- Why It’s Fun: These parks provide the perfect mix of fresh air and exercise for young kids.
- Family Tip: Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring local greenery.
Amusement Parks and Arcades
Family Kingdom Amusement Park
For thrill rides and good old-fashioned fun, a trip to Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a must.
- What to Do: Ride the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel, perfect for taking in breathtaking views of the coastline. Younger kids will love the carousel and bumper cars.
- Why Visit: With its mix of rides, games, and snacks, it’s a classic family experience. Plus, it’s located near Ocean Boulevard for easy access.
Broadway Grand Prix
If your family enjoys a bit of friendly competition, Broadway Grand Prix is the place to be.
- Activities Include: Go-karts, mini golf, and an arcade packed with games.
- Who Will Love It: Kids of all ages will relish the adrenaline rush from racing go-karts.
- Pro Tip: Visit early to avoid long lines, especially during the summer months.
Miniature Golf and Entertainment
Miniature Golf Courses
Myrtle Beach is known as the mini golf capital of the world, offering over 50 themed courses.
- Top Picks: Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf and Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf are crowd favorites for their fun designs.
- Why It’s Great: Mini golf is a fun and inexpensive activity that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Mirror Maze
Add some mystery and laughter to your itinerary with a visit to Ripley’s Mirror Maze.
- What to Expect: Challenge your sense of direction as you and your kids work together to find the exit.
- Why It’s Fun: The disorienting mirrors are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Shows and Dinner Entertainment
Alabama Theatre
Wind down after a day of exploring with live entertainment at the Alabama Theatre.
- For Families: Kids will love the comedy and music acts, while parents can relax in air-conditioned comfort.
- Seasonal Events: Check out their holiday specials and summer lineups for family-friendly shows that everyone will enjoy.
Medieval Times
Transport your family back to a time of knights and castles at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament.
- What to Expect: A full dinner while watching thrilling jousting matches, falconry, and sword fights.
- Why Visit: It’s an interactive experience that’s perfect for kids who love adventure and fantasy. Guests can also enjoy horseback riding as part of the immersive entertainment.
Shopping and Dining
Barefoot Landing
Located in North Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Landing is an entertainment and shopping complex that’s brimming with family-friendly attractions.
- For Families: Stroll the boardwalk, grab ice cream, or take a riverboat tour.
- Why Visit: It’s a great way to mix shopping with kid-centric activities.
Broadway at the Beach
For a day filled with fun, food, and entertainment, head to Broadway at the Beach, one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular entertainment complexes. This bustling hub offers a plethora of activities that cater to visitors of all ages, making it a perfect spot for family outings.
The complex is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Attractions like the Myrtle Waves Water Park and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel provide thrilling experiences that kids will love. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music and street performers, adding to the overall excitement.
One of the highlights of Broadway at the Beach is the Alabama Theatre, which hosts a range of shows and concerts throughout the year. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy, music, or a theatrical performance, the Alabama Theatre has you covered.
Dining options at Broadway at the Beach are diverse, ranging from seafood to Italian cuisine, and everything in between. After a delicious meal, take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
For families with young kids, attractions like the Myrtle Beach Train and Pavilion Park are must-visits. The complex also features a variety of shops, from souvenir stores to clothing boutiques, making it a great place to pick up gifts and mementos.
As the sun sets, the nightlife at Broadway at the Beach comes alive, with bars and clubs staying open late into the night. Whether you’re looking for dining, entertainment, or shopping, Broadway at the Beach has something for everyone, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Nature and Wildlife
Brookgreen Gardens
For an educational and tranquil experience, visit the beautiful Brookgreen Gardens.
- What to See: Explore sculptures, botanical gardens, and a small zoo featuring native South Carolina animals.
- Family Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture memories.
Bonus Tip: Explore Myrtle Beach in an RV!
For something unique and budget-friendly, consider renting an RV from Cozy Turtle RV Rentals, which includes pet-friendly options. They deliver and set up all rentals at local campgrounds in Myrtle Beach, making it a stress-free option for families. Plus, you’ll stay close to nature without sacrificing comfort.
Make the Most of Your Myrtle Beach Adventure
With its endless attractions and natural beauty, Myrtle Beach is a destination the whole family will love. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, navigating a mirror maze, or enjoying live entertainment, there’s no shortage of memories to make.
Feeling inspired? Start planning your family vacation to Myrtle Beach today and prepare for an experience full of fun, laughter, and adventure.
Learn More about Myrtle Beach Attractions
Dive deeper into what Myrtle Beach has to offer by exploring these helpful resources. Whether you’re planning activities or searching for the best family-friendly destinations, these links will guide you in the right direction:
- Visit Myrtle Beach Official Website – Your go-to resource for events, dining, and local information.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach – Discover marine life up close and enjoy interactive experiences for kids.
- Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Learn more about rides, attractions, and hours of operation at this family-friendly park.
- Brookgreen Gardens – Explore nature trails, wildlife exhibits, and sculpture gardens ideal for all ages.
- Cozy Turtle RV Rentals – Find out how you can camp in comfort with convenient RV delivery to local campgrounds.
- Myrtle Waves Water Park – Enjoy thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and kid-friendly splash zones at South Carolina’s largest water park.
- Hollywood Wax Museum – Meet your favorite celebrities in wax form and take fun photos with family and friends.
- SkyWheel Myrtle Beach – Take in breathtaking views of the coastline from this iconic Ferris wheel.
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show – Experience an entertaining evening filled with swashbuckling adventure combined with a delicious dinner.
- Alligator Adventure – Visit this amazing animal park to see alligators, exotic reptiles, and more unique wildlife.
No matter how you choose to explore Myrtle Beach, these resources will help you craft the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable family vacation.
