What Is Myrtle Beach Best Known For?

When you think of Myrtle Beach, what comes to mind? The sun-drenched shores? The vibrant boardwalk? Or perhaps the countless entertainment options for all ages? Myrtle Beach is known for its stunning beaches that stretch for miles, attracting millions of visitors each year. But it doesn’t stop there. This coastal city is also renowned for its lively nightlife, thrilling water sports, and world-class golf courses. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Myrtle Beach has something to offer everyone. Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy and endless possibilities that make Myrtle Beach a must-visit destination.

What Is Myrtle Beach Best Known For?

Beach and Relaxation

Pristine sandy beaches

When you think of Myrtle Beach, the first thing that comes to mind is its pristine sandy beaches. Stretching for miles along the Atlantic coast, these beaches are a haven for relaxation and serenity. The soft, powdery sand calls out to you, inviting you to take off your shoes and let your toes sink into its warmth. Whether you prefer to take a leisurely walk along the shore, build sandcastles with your family, or simply sit back and soak up the sun, Myrtle Beach’s beaches offer the perfect setting for a day of unwinding and rejuvenating.

Swimming and water sports

The crystal-clear waters of Myrtle Beach are not only inviting for a refreshing swim but also offer a playground for various water sports. Dive into the waves and feel the rush of adrenaline as you conquer the surf. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a beginner looking to learn, Myrtle Beach provides the perfect conditions for a splash of fun in the water. From surfing and paddleboarding to jet skiing and parasailing, there are endless opportunities to have a thrilling aquatic adventure.

Sunbathing and beach games

If you prefer to bask in the warmth of the sun and take in the breathtaking ocean views, Myrtle Beach has you covered. Spread out your beach towel, lather on some sunscreen, and let the soothing sound of the waves serenade you as you soak up the golden rays. For the more active beachgoers, there are also plenty of beach games to enjoy. From volleyball and frisbee to flying kites and building sand sculptures, the beach offers a range of activities that are sure to bring laughter and joy to your day in Myrtle Beach.

Golfing Paradise

Numerous world-class golf courses

Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s dream come true. With over 100 golf courses in the area, it is no wonder that it has earned the title of “Golfing Paradise.” Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, you’ll find a course that suits your skill level and preferences. Myrtle Beach boasts world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects, offering lush fairways, challenging greens, and stunning views. Tee off surrounded by natural beauty and experience the joy of the game in this golfing haven.

PGA Tour events

Not only does Myrtle Beach offer a plethora of exceptional golf courses, but it is also a host to prestigious PGA Tour events. Experience the thrill of watching professional golfers compete at the highest level against the picturesque backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. The Myrtle Beach area has played host to several renowned tournaments, attracting players and spectators from all over the world. Whether you’re a die-hard golf fan or simply enjoy the excitement of a live sporting event, attending a PGA Tour event in Myrtle Beach is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Golfing packages and resorts

To enhance your golfing getaway, Myrtle Beach offers a range of golfing packages and resorts that cater to every golfer’s needs. These packages often include accommodations at luxurious resorts, tee times at top-notch courses, and added perks such as dining credits or spa treatments. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group of friends, or on a family vacation, these packages make planning your golfing adventure a breeze. So, pack your clubs, book a golfing package, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable golfing experience in Myrtle Beach.

Family-friendly Attractions

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

For families seeking fun and entertainment, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit destination. Spanning 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, this iconic boardwalk offers a plethora of attractions and activities for all ages. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the lively atmosphere, filled with the sounds of laughter and the enticing aroma of delicious food. Along the way, you’ll find amusement parks, arcades, souvenir shops, and a myriad of dining options. From exciting rides and thrilling games to delectable treats and unique souvenirs, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk guarantees endless smiles and memories for the whole family.

WonderWorks amusement park

Prepare to be amazed at WonderWorks, an amusement park like no other. This indoor attraction combines education and entertainment, offering an immersive experience that will leave you awe-inspired. With over 100 hands-on exhibits, WonderWorks challenges your mind while keeping you entertained. From virtual reality simulators and laser tag to a ropes course and a hurricane shack, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. So, embrace your inner scientist, adventurer, or artist and immerse yourself in the wonder of WonderWorks.

Family Kingdom amusement park

For a classic amusement park experience that will delight the whole family, look no further than Family Kingdom. This nostalgic attraction has been providing fun and thrills for generations and continues to captivate visitors of all ages. With its iconic wooden roller coaster, Ferris wheel, bumper cars, and a wide array of rides and games, Family Kingdom offers an endless supply of excitement. Whether you’re soaring through the air on a roller coaster, enjoying a round of mini-golf, or indulging in cotton candy, the memories made at Family Kingdom will be cherished for years to come.

Shopping Haven

Broadway at the Beach

Attention all shopaholics: Broadway at the Beach is your ultimate destination for retail therapy in Myrtle Beach. This vibrant outdoor shopping complex offers a combination of well-known brands, unique boutiques, and specialty stores. From fashion and accessories to home decor and souvenirs, you’ll find everything you need and more. In addition to its shopping offerings, Broadway at the Beach also features a wide variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and attractions, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. So, grab your shopping bags and get ready to indulge in a day of retail bliss at Broadway at the Beach.

Tanger Outlets

If you’re looking for unbeatable deals and discounts on your favorite brands, Tanger Outlets is the place to be. This popular shopping destination features a vast selection of outlets, offering everything from designer clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. With its open-air layout, Tanger Outlets provides a pleasant shopping experience, allowing you to stroll from store to store and hunt for the best bargains. So, unleash your inner bargain hunter and shop till you drop at Tanger Outlets in Myrtle Beach.

Market Common

For a unique and upscale shopping experience, Market Common is a must-visit. This beautifully designed outdoor shopping village offers a blend of high-end retailers, specialty boutiques, and charming cafes. Stroll along the tree-lined streets, explore the diverse array of shops, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures. Market Common also hosts community events, farmers markets, and outdoor concerts, adding to its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or searching for unique gifts, Market Common offers a shopping haven that will delight your senses.

What Is Myrtle Beach Best Known For?

Live Entertainment

Carolina Opry

Prepare to be dazzled by the world-renowned Carolina Opry. This acclaimed entertainment venue showcases an impressive lineup of live performances, featuring a range of genres from country and pop to comedy and dance. With its state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, the Carolina Opry offers an immersive experience that will leave you in awe. From brilliant musical productions to side-splitting comedy acts, every show at the Carolina Opry promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment. So sit back, relax, and let the talented performers transport you to a world of captivating live entertainment.

Alabama Theatre

For an evening filled with music, laughter, and incredible talent, look no further than the Alabama Theatre. Located at Barefoot Landing, this iconic theater has been wowing audiences for over 25 years with its extraordinary live shows. From Broadway-caliber musicals to heartfelt tribute acts, the Alabama Theatre showcases a diverse range of performances that cater to all tastes. With its state-of-the-art sound, lavish sets, and world-class performers, a night at the Alabama Theatre is guaranteed to leave you singing and dancing in your seat.

Medieval Times

Step back in time and experience the thrill of a medieval tournament at Medieval Times. This unique dinner theater allows you to become fully immersed in the world of knights, jousting, and feasting. Witness epic battles, cheer for your chosen knight, and indulge in a delicious four-course meal fit for royalty. The atmosphere is truly electrifying as you dine in the company of kings, queens, and knights. So, don your crown, raise your goblet, and embark on a medieval adventure that will transport you to a bygone era.

Thrilling Water Parks

Myrtle Waves Water Park

For a day of thrills and spills, head to Myrtle Waves Water Park. As the largest water park in South Carolina, it offers an abundance of water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive play areas that will keep the whole family entertained. Take a plunge down the Turbo Twisters, ride the waves in the Ocean in Motion Wave Pool, or relax on an inner tube as you float along the LayZee River. With a variety of attractions catering to different age groups and adrenaline levels, Myrtle Waves Water Park promises a wet and wild adventure that will leave you wanting more.

Wild Water & Wheels

Experience the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation at Wild Water & Wheels. This family-friendly water park offers a wide range of attractions, from exhilarating water slides and speed rides to lazy rivers and kiddie pools. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you twist and turn through thrilling slides like the Dark Hole and the Free Fall Cliff Dive. If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, grab an inner tube and float along the relaxing lazy river, or soak up the sun by the wave pool. With its variety of water-based activities, Wild Water & Wheels ensures a day of fun and excitement for the whole family.

Splashes Oceanfront Water Park

Immerse yourself in aquatic adventures at Splashes Oceanfront Water Park. Located right on the beach, this water park offers breathtaking views of the ocean while providing hours of amusement. Whether you’re zipping down the water slides, splashing in the wave pool, or challenging yourself on the water obstacle course, Splashes Oceanfront Water Park guarantees endless fun. With its convenient beachfront location, you can easily transition from thrilling water park activities to relaxing on the sandy shore. Soak up the sun, feel the ocean breeze, and make memories that will last a lifetime at Splashes Oceanfront Water Park.

What Is Myrtle Beach Best Known For?

Delicious Seafood

Fresh seafood restaurants

Myrtle Beach is renowned for its mouthwatering seafood, and a visit to the area is incomplete without indulging in a feast of fresh catches from the ocean. Be prepared to tantalize your taste buds with a wide array of seafood restaurants offering delectable dishes featuring shrimp, oysters, crab, and fish. From classic seafood platters to creative culinary creations, Myrtle Beach’s restaurants are dedicated to providing a memorable dining experience. So, whether you’re craving a succulent seafood boil, a flavorful fish tacos, or a classic shrimp and grits, you’ll find a seafood restaurant in Myrtle Beach that will satisfy your cravings and leave you longing for more.

Local shrimp and oyster dishes

When it comes to local specialties in Myrtle Beach, shrimp and oysters take center stage. The area’s proximity to the ocean ensures the availability of the freshest shrimp, which is showcased in dishes like shrimp and grits, shrimp scampi, and low-country boil. Oysters, on the other hand, are a delicacy that is celebrated with enthusiasm in Myrtle Beach’s culinary scene. Whether served raw on the half-shell, charbroiled, or included in regional favorites like oyster po’ boys and oyster roasts, indulging in local shrimp and oyster dishes is a must-do when visiting Myrtle Beach.

Seafood festivals

Myrtle Beach knows how to celebrate its coastal cuisine, and seafood festivals are a testament to the area’s rich gastronomic traditions. Throughout the year, you’ll find a variety of seafood festivals that showcase the best of Myrtle Beach’s culinary offerings. From the world-famous Little River Blue Crab Festival to the tantalizing North Myrtle Beach Seafood Festival, these events bring together top chefs, local restaurants, and seafood enthusiasts to celebrate the flavors of the sea. Dive into a seafood lover’s paradise, savoring dishes crafted by talented chefs, enjoying live music, and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of these seafood-filled festivities.

Outdoor Adventures

Murrells Inlet

Experience the natural beauty of Myrtle Beach at Murrells Inlet, a picturesque spot that offers a multitude of outdoor adventures. Known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” Murrells Inlet not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Take a leisurely stroll along the MarshWalk, a scenic boardwalk that offers stunning views of the salt marshes and allows you to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. Embark on a fishing charter and try your luck at catching flounder, redfish, or even a trophy-sized marlin. For the nature enthusiasts, the Huntington Beach State Park is a must-visit, offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and beautiful sandy beaches. With its blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, Murrells Inlet is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise.

Huntington Beach State Park

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Huntington Beach State Park. This pristine coastal sanctuary offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, making it a haven for nature lovers. Explore the park’s hiking trails that wind through sand dunes, maritime forests, and salt marshes, affording breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque paths, or venture out onto the beach for a peaceful stroll along the shoreline. With its rich biodiversity and serene ambiance, Huntington Beach State Park provides a serene escape where you can reconnect with nature and create lasting memories.

Kayaking and paddleboarding

For a unique perspective of Myrtle Beach’s natural wonders, grab a kayak or paddleboard and venture out onto the shimmering waters. Myrtle Beach is blessed with numerous waterways, including rivers, creeks, and salt marshes, that are perfect for exploring by paddle. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, you’ll find an array of rental shops and guided tours to suit your needs. Glide through calm waterways, marvel at the diversity of wildlife, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Kayaking and paddleboarding in Myrtle Beach offer a peaceful and invigorating experience that allows you to connect with the surrounding environment in a unique way.

Gorgeous Views

Sunrise from the beach

One of the most breathtaking sights in Myrtle Beach is the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. As the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and purple, the first rays of sunlight emerge from the horizon, casting a golden glow over the tranquil waters. Wake up early, find a cozy spot on the beach, and witness the beauty of nature as it embraces a new day. It is a serene and awe-inspiring experience that reminds you of the simple joys in life and sets the tone for a day of exploration and relaxation in Myrtle Beach.

Sunset over the Intracoastal Waterway

As the day comes to a close, Myrtle Beach treats visitors to another picturesque scene – a breathtaking sunset over the Intracoastal Waterway. With its calm and reflective waters, the Intracoastal Waterway becomes a canvas for the vibrant colors produced by the setting sun. Shades of red, orange, and purple paint the sky, creating a magical ambiance that speaks of tranquility and beauty. Find a cozy spot along the shoreline or take a sunset cruise on the waterway itself to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of a Myrtle Beach sunset. It is a moment that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and remind you of the incredible beauty that surrounds us.

SkyWheel ferris wheel

For a unique panoramic view of Myrtle Beach, take a ride on the SkyWheel ferris wheel. Standing at 187 feet tall, it offers a bird’s-eye view of the coastline, sandy beaches, and sparkling waters. As you soar above the city, the breathtaking vistas unfold before your eyes, offering a perspective of Myrtle Beach that is both awe-inspiring and enchanting. Whether you choose to experience the SkyWheel during the day when the beach is bustling with activity or at night when the city lights twinkle like stars, each ride promises a memorable and captivating experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Myrtle Beach.

Festivals and Events

Sun Fun Festival

Every June, Myrtle Beach comes alive with the Sun Fun Festival, a celebration of the area’s sun, sand, and surf culture. This iconic event has a history dating back to 1951 and continues to be a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike. The festival features a wide range of activities, including live music performances, beach games, arts and crafts exhibits, and a colorful parade. From sand sculpting exhibitions to bikini contests and fireworks displays, the Sun Fun Festival creates a jubilant atmosphere where people of all ages can come together and revel in the vibrant spirit of Myrtle Beach.

Carolina Country Music Fest

Calling all country music fans! Myrtle Beach hosts the Carolina Country Music Fest, an annual event that brings the best in country music to the shores of Myrtle Beach. This multi-day festival boasts a star-studded lineup of musicians, both established artists and up-and-coming talents. From big-name headliners to talented local bands, the Carolina Country Music Fest offers a diverse range of country music genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Dance the night away, sing along to your favorite songs, and embrace the camaraderie of fellow country music enthusiasts in this unforgettable celebration of one of America’s most beloved music genres.

Beach Boogie & BBQ Festival

For a finger-licking good time, don’t miss the Beach Boogie & BBQ Festival in Myrtle Beach. This annual event celebrates the mouthwatering flavors of barbecued meats, drawing pitmasters and barbecue aficionados from near and far. Indulge in a smorgasbord of barbecue ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and brisket, all slow-cooked to perfection and tantalizingly seasoned. The festival also features live music, craft vendors, and a beer garden, providing a festive and lively atmosphere. So, bring your appetite, savor the flavors of award-winning barbecue, and let the aroma of smoked meats fill the air at the Beach Boogie & BBQ Festival.

Myrtle Beach is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine sandy beaches, hoping to tee off at world-class golf courses, or looking for family-friendly attractions to entertain your loved ones, Myrtle Beach delivers on all fronts. From the thrill of water parks and live entertainment to the joy of shopping and indulging in delicious seafood, there’s never a dull moment in this coastal paradise. With its natural beauty, vibrant events, and friendly atmosphere, Myrtle Beach invites you to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an incredible adventure in Myrtle Beach – a place where fun, relaxation, and beauty come together to create the perfect vacation.