Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a haven for families seeking sun, sand, and endless entertainment. With its array of attractions catering to all ages, it’s no wonder families flock to this coastal gem year after year. From thrilling outdoor adventures to exciting indoor escapades, Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone in the family. If you’re planning a trip with kids, here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you make the most of your time in Myrtle Beach.
Top Family-Friendly Activities in Myrtle Beach
- Visit Broadway at the Beach: This vibrant entertainment complex boasts shops, restaurants, and attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and WonderWorks, providing endless fun for the whole family.
- Explore Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Stroll along the iconic boardwalk, featuring arcades, souvenir shops, and the thrilling SkyWheel offering panoramic views of the coast.
- Enjoy Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Experience classic amusement park rides and attractions, including roller coasters, go-karts, and water rides, perfect for a day of family fun.
Outdoor Adventures for Families
- Go Dolphin Watching: Embark on a dolphin-watching cruise where kids can marvel at these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
- Hit the Water Parks: Cool off at Myrtle Waves Water Park or Wild Water & Wheels, where slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers promise hours of aquatic excitement for the whole family.
- Play Miniature Golf: Myrtle Beach is renowned for its mini-golf courses, offering themed challenges and family-friendly competition amidst lush tropical settings.
Beat the Heat Indoor Attractions for Kids
- Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: Explore oddities and curiosities from around the world at this fascinating museum, featuring interactive exhibits sure to captivate young minds.
- Experience WonderWorks: Let kids unleash their inner scientist at this upside-down attraction, where they can engage in hands-on experiments, laser tag, and a ropes course.
- Discover Myrtle Beach State Park: Take a break from the sun and explore the park’s nature center, offering educational programs and exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems.
Best Beaches for Families
- Myrtle Beach State Park: With its pristine shoreline and calm waters, this state park offers an ideal setting for families to relax, swim, and enjoy picnics amidst scenic surroundings.
- Huntington Beach State Park: Venture slightly south to discover this tranquil beach, renowned for its wildlife-rich marshes, perfect for birdwatching and exploring nature trails.
- North Myrtle Beach: Embrace the laid-back atmosphere of this family-friendly beach destination, featuring spacious sands and a variety of water sports and activities.
Day Trips from Myrtle Beach for Fun Family Adventures
- Brookgreen Gardens: Explore this expansive sculpture garden and wildlife preserve, where families can admire beautiful botanical gardens, encounter native animals, and learn about Lowcountry history.
- Alligator Adventure: Just a short drive away, this wildlife park offers an up-close encounter with alligators, exotic animals, and live shows sure to thrill animal-loving kids.
- Charleston: Take a day trip to Charleston to immerse yourselves in history and culture, with highlights including historic landmarks, horse-drawn carriage tours, and the family-friendly South Carolina Aquarium.
Best Eats for Kids in Myrtle Beach
- Seafood Buffets: Indulge in all-you-can-eat seafood buffets, where kids can feast on shrimp, crab legs, and other coastal favorites while enjoying a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Pizza Parlors: Satisfy picky eaters with a visit to one of Myrtle Beach’s many pizza joints, serving up delicious pies topped with kid-approved toppings.
- Ice Cream Shops: Treat the family to a sweet indulgence at one of the city’s ice cream parlors, offering a variety of flavors and toppings to please even the most discerning young palates.
Best Hotels for Families in Myrtle Beach
- Dunes Village Resort: This oceanfront resort features spacious suites, indoor water parks, and a host of family-friendly amenities, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining stay for all.
- Caribbean Resort & Villas: With multiple pools, lazy rivers, and a pirate ship playground, this resort promises endless aquatic fun for kids, along with spacious accommodations perfect for families.
- Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark: Families can splash the day away at the on-site water park or relax on the beach at this resort, which also offers suites with kitchenettes for added convenience.
Myrtle Beach is a paradise for families seeking an unforgettable vacation experience. With its diverse array of attractions, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly amenities, it’s the perfect destination for creating cherished memories together. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach, exploring thrilling attractions, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Myrtle Beach offers endless opportunities for family fun and relaxation.