Free Things to Do at Myrtle Beach – 10 Can’t Miss Activities

Crashing waves, wide swaths of sandy shoreline, and enough live entertainment for the whole family. From searing Intracoastal Waterway views to strolls down a charming fishing pier, every inch of the Grand Strand screams coastal perfection.

Follow along to discover the 10 best free things to do in Myrtle Beach.

From state parks studded with marine forests and Magnolia trees to jamming out to local bands at Barefoot Landing, there’s heaps to do in this South Carolina paradise.

Enjoy free playground fun at Broadway at the Beach, or uncover the secrets of farm life in the 1900s with a visit to the Horry County Museum.

Whether you are in the mood for beaches, museums, or more you’ll never need to break out that wallet when you take on the ultimate free things to do in Myrtle Beach today.

If you’re concerned about just how to conquer Myrtle Beach on a budget, read on.

Myrtle Beach Hotels

Before you pack up your beach bag and hit those 60 miles of spotless coastline you’ll need to reserve some epic lodgings. Take advantage of all the free activities in Myrtle Beach when you extend your stay in the Grand Strand.

Stretch your dollar even further when you book any of our best budget-friendly Myrtle Beach Hotels. From oceanfront views to lazy rivers and complimentary wifis, our wide selection of accommodations will appeal to every traveler and budget. As always, make your reservations stress-free knowing you are always guaranteed our lowest rates online.

Pool at Doubletree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
photo credit: DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront via Facebook

Free Things to Do at Myrtle Beach

Boardwalk people-watching, epic kid-approved events, and miles of lush hiking trails. From spotting Pelicans and Egrets in the estuary to free yoga in the park, Myrtle Beach is a veritable wonderland of free attractions and activities.

Myrtle Beach State Park

South Carolina is studded with state parks, but perhaps none is more dazzling than Myrtle Beach State Park. Opened in 1936, this refuge of flora and fauna features a full mile of undeveloped beach in Horry County. While visiting this lush maritime forest may require a small fee, it’s well worth it to bask in nature’s majesty.

Plan to spend a full day exploring the Sculptured Oak Trail, or trying your hand at surf fishing. Pack a swimsuit and cool off with a refreshing beach swim, or keep your eyes peeled for all manner of wildlife. Known for exceptional bridging, visitors may even encounter nesting loggerhead sea turtles, bald eagles, and least terns.

For an extra special treat, budget for an overnight camping adventure and soak in the starry skies come nightfall.

Myrtle Beach Skyline at Sunrise
Myrtle Beach South Carolina SC Drone Skyline Aerial.

Market Common

Rows of Palmetto palms, mouthwatering eats, and unique boutique offerings come together to make Market Common the retail and restaurant oasis of our dreams. While shopping and dining will obviously set you back a few bucks, there’s still tons to do for free.

Related Post: Things to Do for Adults in Myrtle Beach – Must Try Activities

Bop around with the kiddies and enjoy playground facilities. Or check out their robust event calendar to partake in everything from live jazz to free yoga classes. From the sultry songs of Big Bands to festive International Dance Day celebrations, there’s always something going on.

aerial night view over The Market Common with street lights and fountain in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USAMyrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade

Nothing screams summer or spring vacation more than a stroll down the boardwalk! Harness that seaside spirit when you enter this destination of sun and fun. The Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade is a top-tier tourist destination that promises to delight beach babes of all ages.

Related Post: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade: Your In-Depth Planning Guide

Soak in the scenery as you make your way through the 1.2-mile-long wooden walkway. Home to a number of shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides it’s all too easy to while away the day window shopping, swimming, and sunbathing.

Divided into three sections, the boardwalk boasts everything from the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel to Zipline adventures. These extra attractions will cost you, but for more excitement don’t forget to check out the Boardwalk’s event schedule. Which features loads of family-friendly festivals such as Hot Summer Nights and free kid’s carnivals.

The Boardwalk at Myrtle Beach - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
photo credit: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk via Facebook

Barefoot Landing

On the hunt for one of the best free things to do in North Myrtle Beach? No matter if you’re craving live music or simply want to grab a bite to eat, Barefoot Landing is one locale you can’t help but return to. Located on the Intercoastal Waterway, this unique shopping, dining, and entertainment plaza is a must-do for tourists and locals alike. From Brewery tours to Alligator Adventures, there’s so much to explore.

Pop into the House of Blues for a night of jamming tunes, or treat your kiddies to a ride on the Barnum & Bailey Carousel. Encounter sweet southern hospitality around every corner, or plan your visit around their spectacular summer offerings which include fireworks!

Related Post: Things to Do with Kids in Myrtle Beach: Top 15 Fun Activities

In addition, Barefoot Landing also hosts a slew of free events throughout the year including strolling kid’s characters for SummerFest, steel drum performers, and Yoga in the Crooked Hammock Brewery.

Two couples leaning against a brick and front railing looking out over the water with a green building behind them at Barefoot Landing in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
photo credit: Barefoot Landing via Facebook

LW Paul Living History Farm and Horry County Museum

Have you been dreaming about that Old McDonald life? Wrangle together some overalls and grab your pitchfork because it’s time to dive headfirst into life on the farm. For over 40 years the Horry County Museum has opened its doors to the public.

Related Post: The Ultimate Myrtle Beach Packing List: Items You Can’t Leave Home Without

Here visitors can take a closer look at the fascinating history, prehistory, and natural ecosystem of Horry County South Carolina. Completely free to enter, the museum seeks to educate through its immersive exhibits, outreach programs, and events. Peruse old artifacts, textiles, and specimens that range from Revolutionary War uniforms to reconstructions of Native American dwellings.

In addition to specimens of American Alligator and Black Bear, aquatically inclined tourists can peek at the museum’s famous freshwater aquarium which was featured on Animal Planet’s hit reality show “Tanked.”

Primed for your tractor debut? Then it’s time to swing by the L. W. Paul Living History Farm. This Farm is a real-life recreation of what a one-horse family farm would have been like between the years 1900-1955. Watch farmers plow fields, sharpen blacksmith tools or groove along to the sounds of the country fiddle.

For a more comprehensive look at Horry County Farm, life be sure to stop by for a free guided tour. These are available every Saturday at 10:00 a.m.

Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

Perfectly perched pelicans, gloriously orange-hued sunsets, and a lively Southern atmosphere meld together to make Murrells Inlet MarshWalk an evening respite beyond reproach. Wind down your day of Myrtle Beach fun with a casual stroll down the quaint waterfront boardwalk as you take in the sweeping estuary views and the steady hum of live music.

Located in the historic fishing village of Murrells Inlet, families, couples, and kids of all ages will be in heaven as they browse the shops, dining, and history of this charming enclave. Uncover the history behind the delicious deep-fried hushpuppy, Blackbeard’s booty, ghosts, and more.

Don’t forget to check out the MarshWalk’s event calendar to see what free fun is in store for your visit.

view from deck on a sunny day along the marshwalk in Murrell's Inlet near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina via Facebook

South Carolina Hall of Fame

A little rusty on your South Carolina history? Pay homage to some of the great political leaders, entertainment titans, and artists of the Palmetto State when you plan an outing to the South Carolina Hall of Fame. Opened in 2001 to recognize and honor both the past and present achievements of outstanding South Carolina citizens.

Past inductees include founding fathers, Civil Rights advocates, and famous musicians such as John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie.

Broadway at the Beach

Put down the credit card and prime yourself for hours of gratis amusement when you spend an afternoon at Broadway at the Beach. This massive shopping, dining, and entertainment complex is one of Myrtle Beach’s most popular attractions and features oodles of excitement.

Related Post: Restaurants at Broadway at the Beach – 4 Locals Rave About

Window shop your way through art galleries, gift stores, and more. Or, delight your mini munchkins with events such as balloon art, face painting, and live music. For an extra special evening, time your visit with the summer fireworks schedule and watch the sky come alive with color.

Liberty Brewery and Grill on Broadway at the Beach Myrtle BeachFranklin G Burroughs Simeon B Chapin Art Museum

Amazing visual art for no admission fee? Yes, please! Infuse your Myrtle Beach vacation with a bit of culture when you visit one of the finest art museums in the Carolinas. Located at 3100 S Ocean Blvd Myrtle Beach, the Simeon B Chapin Art Museum contains eleven ever changing galleries.

Take in collections and exhibitions containing textiles, sculptures, ceramics, videos, and collages. Absorbed the intricate detail of historical prints, antique maps, and boldly colored depictions of Southern art.

Consequently, the museum has had the honor of showcasing works from such influential artists as Ansel Adams, Frank Lloyd Wright, Norman Rockwell, John James Audubon, and Jasper Johns.

women with hats walking along myrtle beach with pier in backgroundMouthwatering crab dinners, luxurious oceanfront resorts, and plenty of golf games can make a dent in your Myrtle Beach vacation budget all too quickly.

However, it’s more than possible to cover every inch of the Grand Strand without going into the red.

Soak in sunny beach days of swimming and sandcastle building before you take advantage of free art museum visits or ogle freshwater fish at the Horry tank.

Admire paintings that pay homage to Southern Jazz singers. Or achieve a moment of serenity with a complimentary yoga class at Market Common.

No matter if you’re in the mood for live country music or would rather set forth on a treasure hunt of seashells and shark teeth at the State Park. There’s no end to the gratis adventure in the Grand Strand!

Tell us, Did We Miss Any of Your Favorite Myrtle Beach Things to Do for Free?

Leave us a comment below!


Avatar photo

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...


Have something to add? Post it here:

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Are you a Tripster?

Create an account to get access to exclusive pricing and rewards.

Tagged in this post

Myrtle Beach Free Things