Things To Do
in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach sits along the Grand Strand in northeastern South Carolina, known for its broad, sandy beaches and a family-friendly vibe. It offers a more relaxed, neighborhood-centered atmosphere compared to neighboring resort towns, with lively Ocean Boulevard, quieter residential areas, and easy access to golf courses and promenades. Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, water sports, and casual entertainment—from arcade-style fun to live music along the waterfront.
The area is walkable in many parts, with plenty of options for day trips to nearby parks, nature preserves, and golf courses.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in North Myrtle Beach and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine coastline and breathe in the salty ocean air. Grab a light breakfast at a nearby café as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere of beach life.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the warm sand or try out some water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing. For lunch, visit a local seafood shack and savor the fresh catch of the day while enjoying scenic ocean views. As the afternoon sun sets, enjoy a casual beach walk.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant where you can indulge in Southern cuisine while watching the sunset paint the sky. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the pier, listening to the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Wind down your first day with a nightcap at a beach bar, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular diner before heading out to explore the local attractions. Visit the Alligator Adventure to see exotic reptiles and participate in interactive exhibits. Delve into the fascinating world of these creatures before heading to your next destination.
In the afternoon, visit the Carolina Opry for an afternoon matinee show that showcases a mix of music and comedy. Opt for lunch at a nearby bistro, where you can enjoy Southern hospitality and flavors. After the show, spend time shopping at the Tanger Outlets, picking up great deals.
For dinner, enjoy a laid-back meal at a traditional low-country seafood restaurant, relishing dishes like crab cakes and hushpuppies. As night falls, consider visiting the House of Blues for live music or entertainment. Experience the vibrant nightlife at a nearby club or lounge.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
| 🏖️Beach chair/rental | $10-30 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (budget to mid-range) | $70-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $2.80-4.00 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Wide, family-friendly beaches with a relaxed vibe
- Excellent golf options and seafood-centric cuisine
- Seasonal crowds and driving congestion in peak weeks
- Some attractions and hours vary outside summer peak
Places to Visit in North Myrtle Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic wooden pier offering ocean views, long exposure sunset shots, and candid fisherman perspectives.
Wide sandy shoreline with palm-lined boardwalks—great for dawn or golden-hour beach photos.
Intracoastal Waterway views with reflections, wildlife, and festive lights at night.
Lively beachfront scenes, colorful storefronts, and seasonal lighting ideal for street photography.
Food in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Southern classic featuring juicy shrimp served over creamy grits, commonly found at seafood shacks and casual waterfront eateries along the coast.
Must-Try!
A hearty boil of shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes—perfect for sharing at casual spots and beach gatherings.
A creamy, sherry-scented crab soup widely found in seafood restaurants along the Grand Strand.
Smoked and tangy barbecue with mustard- or tomato-based sauces, available at local BBQ joints and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, seafood, baked goods, and crafts; great for sampling regional flavors.
Seasonal vendors along Ocean Boulevard offering fish tacos, corn dogs, funnel cakes, and shaved ice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hello or smile goes a long way. Respect quiet residential areas and observe local pickup and queue etiquette at popular spots.
Casual beachwear is common on the boardwalk, but nicer restaurants may require smart-casual attire. Keep noise reasonable, especially at night near residences.
Tip servers in dining venues and be patient with service; many places practice casual, friendly service typical of the region.
Safety
Tipping in North Myrtle Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tip is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill at restaurants; higher for exceptional service. Bar staff, taxi drivers, and hotel staff may expect $1-2 per drink or service. Check for automatic gratuity on large groups. Carrying some cash for tips is handy, though cards and mobile wallets are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with peak beach crowds. Water temps are inviting, and afternoon thunderstorms are common—plan early morning beach time and midday indoor activities.
Pleasant temperatures and thinner crowds. Great for golf, hiking, and outdoor dining; unpredictable tropical systems can occur in late summer.
Mild with cooler mornings and occasional chilly nights. Some attractions have reduced hours, but indoor venues and seasonal events keep things lively.
Warm days with breezy evenings; evolving restaurant menus and outdoor concerts begin. Spring breakers may affect crowds in peak weeks.
North Myrtle Beach at Night
Hiking in North Myrtle Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest and marsh trails with scenic overlooks and wildlife viewing near the coast.
Boardwalks and marsh views in nearby Conway area, ideal for birdwatching.
Coastal trails and nature paths within a short drive, offering diverse ecosystems and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach North Myrtle Beach by plane.
Primary regional airport serving the Grand Strand, with domestic flights and rental car access, typically a short drive from North Myrtle Beach.
Major airport a few hours away by car, offering a wider range of domestic and international flights.
Smaller regional airport within a few hours’ drive, with flights to select destinations and easy highway access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large share of family travelers; many kid-friendly activities, arcades, and mini-golf.
Steady presence of seasonal residents and snowbirds; comfortable climate and relaxed pace attract longer stays.
Popular for quick getaways, nightlife-oriented visits, and culinary discovery along the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A premier golf region with numerous courses along the Grand Strand, suitable for all skill levels.
Atlantic surf with beginner-friendly breaks and rental shops along the coast.
Seasonal sand volleyball on public beaches and local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Myrtle Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian-friendly options are available: salads, veggie bowls, pasta with vegetables, and sides like roasted vegetables and risotto. When dining out, ask for meat-free broth and cheese options; many places are happy to adapt recipes upon request.