Things to Do North Myrtle Beach: Kid-Friendly, Adult-Approved!
Make the most of your visit to the Grand Strand by exploring all the wonderful activities on the other side of Myrtle Beach! From staycations at luxury beachfront resorts to a day spent at a family-friendly theme park, North Myrtle Beach has got everything you need for a fantastic vacation.
If your ideal vacation includes salty air, seafood platters bigger than your head, and the kind of small-town charm that feels like a Hallmark movie in flip-flops, North Myrtle Beach is about to win you over.
This isn’t just a beach trip; it’s a full-blown choose-your-own-adventure where you can sip sweet tea by the water, chase your kids through a retro arcade, or finally learn what the heck “shag dancing” actually is.
There’s just enough kitsch to keep things fun and just enough coastal cool to make your Instagram grid look like a travel influencer’s.
Whether you’re coming for the family fun or plotting your escape with friends who also need a break from reality, this slice of the South serves up the perfect mix of lazy and lively.
Start planning and throw your worries in a tote bag. North Myrtle Beach attractions are calling!
For When You Need Vitamin Sea and a Little Cardio
Looking for things to do in North Myrtle Beach that don’t involve fighting over a pool chair? Head outdoors and let nature steal the spotlight.
From beachy bike rides to dolphin spotting that feels straight out of a Lisa Frank folder, this coastal escape is packed with outdoor activities that go way beyond your average sunbathing session.
Let’s Talk Beaches and Piers
There’s no such thing as “just another beach day” when you’re in North Myrtle. Cherry Grove Beach offers a laid-back vibe and fishing-friendly Cherry Grove Pier, a must-visit for morning walks and killer ocean views.
For easy access and softer crowds, Crescent Beach and Windy Hill are solid picks for shell-hunting and sun lounging.
Want to level up the view? The SkyWheel Myrtle Beach lifts you 200 feet into the sky inside a climate-controlled gondola for panoramic, Instagram-worthy shots of the shoreline.
It’s located right on the Oceanfront Boardwalk, making it easy to pair your beach day with a scenic ride.
Dolphin and Nature Cruises You’ll Brag About
If you’re not ready to just sit still, we support that. Book a ride on the Sea Screamer or Sea Thunder Dolphin Cruise for a high-speed chase through the Atlantic, complete with salty wind in your hair and dolphins trailing the wake.
Both boats depart from Little River, just minutes from North Myrtle Beach, and offer canopy seating for comfort and views.
Prefer to stay closer to the surface? Look into kayak or jet ski rentals at local spots near Barefoot Landing or Murrells Inlet. Just remember: sunglasses are only cute until the ocean eats them.
Gator Encounters at Alligator Adventure
Located right by Barefoot Landing, Alligator Adventure is one of the largest reptile parks in the country.
Think massive gators, crocs, snakes, lizards, and even a few mammals like lemurs and hyenas. Live feedings and educational talks happen daily, so check the schedule to catch all the drama.
This is one of those “I didn’t expect to love this, but I totally did” attractions, and it’s surprisingly kid-friendly without feeling oversimplified.
Bonus: your ticket gets you in for free on a second day within seven days of your first visit!
Slow It Down at Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
Tucked away behind the Cherry Grove neighborhood, Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is a total vibe shift from the buzz of the beach.
This 7-acre salt marsh preserve has raised boardwalks, interpretive signs, and scenic views of House Creek and the surrounding estuary. It’s ideal for early morning walks, birdwatching, or just escaping the chaos for a hot second.
And the best part? It’s completely free and open daily from sunrise to sunset. Bring a coffee and a camera—because trust us, you’re going to want both.
Attractions That Go Beyond the Beach Towel
Looking for things to do North Myrtle Beach that bring on the drama, dazzle, and maybe a pirate swordfight or two?
From big-ticket dinner shows to quirky museums and pulse-raising mini golf courses, this slice of the Grand Strand knows how to entertain!
Barefoot Landing is Your Waterfront Hangout
Barefoot Landing is more than a shopping center. It’s a boardwalk-style hub filled with waterfront views, boutique shops, casual eats, and live entertainment that goes well into the evening.
It’s home to some of the area’s top attractions like Greg Rowles’ Music & Memories Variety Show, plus seasonal events like fireworks and live music.
If you’re traveling with a crew that wants a little bit of everything, get ready to shop and dine. This is where you’ll find it.
Pro Tip: If you’re in town between May and October, stop by the North Myrtle Beach Farmers Market for a relaxed morning of fresh produce, local crafts, and beach snacks.
Big Energy, Bigger Shows
Whether you’re into comedy, covers, or choreographed sword fights, North Myrtle Beach shows know how to deliver a night out you’ll be talking about long after vacation ends.
Pirates Voyage turns dinner into a spectacle with aerial acrobatics and a swashbuckling storyline. Legends in Concert is where tribute artists channel icons like Elvis and Adele with full costumes and live band backing.
For classic variety with glitz and glam, Alabama Theatre’s ICONIC show brings together chart-topping hits and jaw-dropping talent all in one stage.
Pro Tip: During summer, Main Street’s Horseshoe hosts free outdoor concerts that bring locals and visitors together for beachside dancing and live music under the stars.
Sip Southern Sweetness at Duplin Winery
Right inside Barefoot Landing, Duplin Winery pours its award-winning muscadine wines in a laid-back, front-porch kind of atmosphere.
You can book a tasting, pick your favorite pour, and enjoy live music while you sip. The frozen wine slushies are a fan favorite, and the gift shop has every bottle, dip mix, and jam your suitcase can handle.
Play Hard at LuLu’s Beach Arcade and Ropes Course
Tucked next to LuLu’s restaurant, this family friendly spot is the ultimate combo of fun and chaos in the best way. The arcade has classics, new games, and plenty of ticket-based prizes to keep kids busy.
Up for a challenge? The ropes course hovers three stories high over the Intracoastal, with obstacles that test your balance and nerve. You’ll definitely want a cold drink afterward.
Quick Escapes That Don’t Eat Up the Whole Day
If you’re looking to level up your list of North Myrtle Beach activities, a day trip or two can take your beach vacation from great to unforgettable. You don’t have to go far to find scenic marshes, charming small towns, or boat rides that feel like a mini escape.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets, sea creatures, or just a killer photo op, these quick adventures are worth stepping off the sand for. Bonus: you’ll be back in time for dinner.
Spend the Day at Broadway at the Beach
Located about 25 minutes south of North Myrtle, Broadway at the Beach is a can’t-miss stop for families, foodies, and anyone who loves an all-in-one adventure.
Shop local boutiques and big-name brands, visit the lot of dining options, then hit up attractions like the Ripley’s Aquarium, where you can walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays.
There’s also Hollywood Wax Museum, a 20,000-square-foot arcade, mini golf, and boat rides, all wrapped around a scenic lake with restaurants that range from quick bites to sit-down seafood.
Discover Art and Wildlife at Brookgreen Gardens
A peaceful contrast to the beach scene, Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet offers 9,000 acres of curated beauty with a twist.
Yes, there are world-class sculpture gardens filled with fountains, live oaks, and flowers, but it’s also home to a lowcountry zoo where you can see native animals like alligators, red foxes, and river otters.
The Butterfly House and boat tours along the historic rice fields add extra layers to the experience, making it a full-day outing that’s equal parts relaxing and enriching.
Still Mapping Out Your North Myrtle Beach Game Plan?
Totally get it. With so many North Myrtle Beach things to do, it’s hard to know where to start.
If you’ve got questions, need recs, or want help building your perfect beach day lineup, drop them below. We’ve got you.
Things to Do in North Myrtle Beach FAQs
Where Can I See Dolphins Near North Myrtle Beach?
Hop aboard the Sea Screamer or Sea Thunder Dolphin Cruise for a fast-paced ride with real chances of spotting dolphins in the wild. For a slower, more scenic option, the Barefoot Queen Riverboat cruise offers views, music, and dolphin sightings with zero splash zone.
What’s the Deal With Shag Dancing?
It’s a local Carolina tradition and totally worth checking out. You’ll often catch it at beach bars or events near Main Street, where locals show off their footwork to beach music.
Which Beach in North Myrtle Is Best for Families?
Cherry Grove Beach is quiet, clean, and close to parking, making it ideal for families with kids. Bonus: the nearby pier is great for fishing or just walking with snacks.
Is Barefoot Landing Worth Visiting?
Yes—it’s basically a vacation sampler platter. Think boutique shopping, waterfront restaurants, free events, and easy access to Greg Rowles’ Music & Memories and Duplin Winery.
What Are the Best Water Sports Near North Myrtle Beach?
You can rent jet skis, paddleboards, or book a boat tour from local spots near Barefoot Landing or Little River. For speed and splash, the Sea Screamer cruise is a local fave.
What Are the Most Kid-Friendly Attractions in North Myrtle Beach?
Head to LuLu’s Beach Arcade and Ropes Course for games and climbing fun, then check out Alligator Adventure for real gators, snakes, and surprisingly cute lemurs. Both are packed with kid appeal and short attention span-approved.
What’s a Good Rainy Day Activity in North Myrtle Beach?
Hit the Ripley’s Aquarium at Broadway at the Beach for underwater tunnels and interactive exhibits. Or grab tickets to Pirates Voyage for a dinner show that comes with sword fights and zero chance of getting rained on.
What Are the Must-See Shows in North Myrtle Beach?
Legends in Concert is iconic, with tribute artists that’ll blow your mind, and Pirates Voyage delivers dinner with acrobatics, sea lions, and a full-blown lagoon. Both are family-friendly and easy to book through Tripster.
How Far Is Broadway at the Beach From North Myrtle Beach?
It’s about a 25-minute drive, and totally doable as a day trip. Once you’re there, expect shopping, restaurants, Ripley’s Aquarium, mini golf, and tons of family attractions.
I’m Overwhelmed—Where Should I Start Planning?
Start with what kind of trip you want: chill, active, or kid-focused. Then check out the curated Tripster deals and bundles to build your perfect getaway without decision fatigue.
