Top 10 Essential Experiences in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Step into the WonderWorks Museum, and you’ll find yourself in an upside-down world where science, entertainment, and fun collide. With over 100 interactive exhibits, it's a place where you can experience a hurricane, design and ride your own roller coaster, or challenge yourself with a ropes course. It's not just for kids, adults will find themselves equally mesmerized by the blend of education and excitement. WonderWorks is a mind-bending adventure that proves learning can be a blast.

At Patriots Point, history isn't just something you read about—it's something you live. This naval and maritime museum brings the valour of America's Navy to life. Explore the decks of historic ships, dive into hands-on training simulations, and even spend a night on the U.S.S. Yorktown if you dare. Patriots Point is more than just a museum, it's a tribute to those who've served, offering a blend of education and excitement.

Kicking off your Myrtle Beach adventure, hit the Boardwalk, a hotspot that's bagged a spot as the third-best in the nation. This 1.2-mile wooden walkway is the life of the party, offering unbeatable Atlantic vistas. Hop on the SkyWheel to spy Myrtle Beach from a whopping 200 feet up, or catch the free tunes every Tuesday and Saturday night. With jugglers and acrobats on Sundays and fireworks to light up your Wednesdays, the Boardwalk and Promenade are buzzing with action all week long, making it a no-brainer for your itinerary.

Imagine stepping into a realm where art and nature blend seamlessly. Brookgreen Gardens, born from four rice plantations, is just that—a sprawling sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. Wander among over 1,400 American sculptures, discover the remnants of plantation life, and follow trails through ecosystems teeming with life. The Lowcountry Zoo adds another layer to your visit, making a day at Brookgreen Gardens a journey through beauty, history, and nature's wonders.

Murrells Inlet is where history meets mouthwatering cuisine against a backdrop of stunning vistas. Once the haunt of the notorious pirate Blackbeard, this former fishing village is now a go-to spot for entertainment. Stroll the MarshWalk, a scenic boardwalk along a saltwater estuary, where the sound of live music and the smell of ocean eats fill the air. Don't miss Atalaya Castle for a dose of history, or Richmond Hill Plantation to step back in time. You might need more than a day to soak it all in at Murrells Inlet, where every corner tells a story.

A trip to Myrtle Beach wouldn't be complete without playing a round of golf, given its reputation as the world's golf capital. More than 100 courses designed by golfing greats like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer can be found in the area. Every ability level has a course, whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner trying to strike your first ball. Imagine yourself teeing off against the backdrop of the ocean, with a breeze blowing through your hair and perhaps a few birdies on your scorecard. This is an experience rather than just a game.

After all the excitement, wind down with a visit to Myrtle Beach State Park, a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle. Here, you can stroll along a pristine stretch of beach, explore nature trails through maritime forests, or cast a line off the fishing pier. It’s a reminder of South Carolina’s natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with nature and maybe even spot some local wildlife. Myrtle Beach State Park is the perfect spot to reflect on your adventures and soak in the serene beauty of the Grand Strand.

Have you ever wanted to surf a wave? Myrtle Beach is the ideal location to fulfill that goal. You may pick the brains of some of the top surfers in the industry by attending one of the many surf schools scattered along the coast. It's an opportunity to experience the Atlantic up close and personal in a completely different way. Surfing at Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable experience, whether you're just learning how to cutback or jumping up on your board for the first time. Now grease your board and get ready to explore.

Myrtle Beach's waters hide mysteries and treasures beneath their waves, from naturally sunken ships to deliberately placed artificial reefs. Dive spots like the Sherman and Charleston Tug are underwater playgrounds, teeming with stingrays, sharks, and colorful fish. Imagine floating in the blue, surrounded by marine life, or discovering a hidden artefact to take home. Diving into Myrtle Beach’s waters is not just an activity, it's an adventure waiting to be had.

When the sun dips down, the lights come up at The Carolina Opry, a premier entertainment venue that's been wowing audiences for years. It's a slice of Broadway right here in Myrtle Beach, with a lineup that includes everything from country and rock to comedy and dance. The high-energy performances and dazzling productions make an evening here an absolute must-do. It’s where you’ll clap your hands raw and tap your feet till they’re sore. An evening at The Carolina Opry is guaranteed to be one for the books.