15 Fun Things To Do in Myrtle Beach for Adults

Myrtle Beach: A year-round beach destination

There are so many things to do in Myrtle Beach for adults – it’s not just a summertime vacation destination for families.

South Carolina’s Greater Myrtle Beach region, also known as the Grand Strand, stretches along 60 miles of the Atlantic coastline. With average daytime highs ranging from the mid-50s during winter months to low-90s in the peak of summer, it’s an ideal destination for adults year-round.

While there are 14 communities that make up the Grand Strand, staying in the town of Myrtle Beach lets you casually enjoy top attractions, as well as venture out to some of the surrounding communities for day trips.

Instead of joining the crowds during peak summer season, consider planning a trip during the off-season when there are less crowds and more flexibility to discover and enjoy the top attractions and entertainment. The only downside of off-season travel to Myrtle Beach is that some activities have reduced hours and may even take a break over the winter months. So, double-check before making plans.

1 | Get in a round of golf

Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand are home to more than 80 golf courses making it a golfer’s paradise. And, with the moderate weather Myrtle Beach enjoys most of the year – more than 200 sunny days annually! – it’s easy to get in a round (or several!).

2 | Go birdwatching at Huntington Beach State Park

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Located in Murrells Inlet, Huntington Beach State Park offers a lot of variety. In addition to two easy hiking trails, the park is home to Atalaya Castle (a National Historic Landmark), a nature center, picnic area and playground, overnight camping and three miles of beach perfect for walking, swimming, kite flying and fishing.

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The Kerrigan Nature Trail is actually a 0.3-mile, paved causeway heading into the park, separating Mallard Pond and Mullet Pond. The ponds are a beautiful place to go birdwatching with more than 300 species of birds that can be seen in the park, many in this area. Depending on the time of year and time of day, you might also observe the oyster beds and other resident wildlife, including alligators, turtles, bullfrogs and deer.

The Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail is longer and a little more rugged. This 2-mile out-and-back dirt trail winds alongside Sandpiper Pond, through a maritime forest dense with oak, pine and cedar trees. On the trail, you’ll find the unique and resilient “Octopus Tree” – a southern live oak that once stood tall before being toppled by hurricane force winds years ago. Refusing to give up, the roots held tight and eventually branches began to grow from the fallen trunk, creating what now looks like tentacles growing up from the ground.

3 | Walk through history at Atalaya Castle

👉🏼 ADDRESS: Atalaya Rd., Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Atalaya Castle was built in the early 1930s by philanthropist and poet Archer Huntington and his wife, renowned sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. It once stood on the dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and served as a place for Anna to house her animals – inspiration for her art. While the changing shape of the sand dunes and natural growth now obscure the ocean views, visitors to Atalaya Castle can take a stroll through history, exploring the rooms of this Moorish-style castle, imagining what life might have been like when the halls were bustling with life and creativity.

4 | Wander the trails of Brookgreen Gardens

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Brookgreen Gardens, located adjacent to Huntington Beach State Park, is a botanical garden covering more than 9,000 acres. Throughout the gardens, visitors will discover more than 2,000 works of art, including sculptures by Anna Hyatt Huntington. The Lowcountry Zoo is also located within Brookgreen Gardens. And Lowcountry History Tours are offered spring through fall.

Festivals at Atalaya Castle and Brookgreen Gardens

Every September, Atalaya Castle and Huntington Beach State Park host the Atalaya Arts & Craft Festival. The event brings together more than 100 local artists, musicians and food vendors.

Throughout the month of December, Brookgreen Gardens is illuminated for the Nights of a Thousand Candles event. Enjoy a unique walk through the park to celebrate the holiday season with hot cider and holiday music, surrounded by sparkling lights and candles.

Hours and entrance fees:

• There is a per person admission fee for Huntington Beach State Park and hours vary with the seasons, so check the website for details.
• Atalaya Castle also requires a small admission fee and hours may vary from the state park.
• Daily general admission passes are available for Brookgreen Gardens and are good for seven consecutive days. History tours and festivals require an additional ticket.

4 | Make a wish at Vereen Memorial Gardens

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 2250 SC-179, Little River, SC 29566

Vereen Memorial Gardens is a hidden gem located just minutes south of the North Carolina border in Little River. Dating back to the late 18th century, Vereen Memorial Gardens sits on land once part of the Vereen family’s Big Landing Plantation. Centuries later, the 115-acre park was donated to the Horry County Historical Preservation Commission so visitors can continue to enjoy its serene environment.

Winding through the maritime forest and salt marshes along the Intracoastal Waterway are 3 miles of trails perfect for hiking. There are also boardwalks where you can go birdwatching, fishing or just pause to watch the sunset. At one point along the trails, you’ll find trees adorned with oyster shells, each carrying a wish from a previous visitor. Take a moment to add your own wish to one of the branches.

For history enthusiasts, Vereen Memorial Gardens offers a peek back into the past:

• Explore the Vereen family cemetery where you can find graves dating back to the Revolutionary and Civil wars
• Walk along sections of the Kings Highway
• Visit the C.B. Berry Community & Historical Center where you’ can’ll find artifacts of local history

Vereen Memorial Gardens is open during daylight hours and is free to explore. At the parking lot near the boardwalk, there is a shaded picnic area and porta potties.

5 | Spend time on the water

There are plenty of things to do in Myrtle Beach for adults that involve getting out on the water.

• Take a dolphin cruise catamaran ride along the Intracoastal Waterway, stopping on one of the barrier islands to explore the tide pools and walk along the beach. (October–November is prime dolphin-spotting season when they migrate through the region)
• Hop on the BrewBoat at Murrells Inlet for an early morning coffee cruise, BYOB pedal cruise, or late afternoon sunset cruise.
• Try your luck with a rod and reel on one of the many fishing charters at Murrells Inlet.

6 | Catch a show at the Carolina Opry Theater

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 8901 North Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572

The Carolina Opry opened in 1986 and its iconic Christmas Special debuted that same year. Since then, the theater has welcomed top name artists, as well as a variety of tribute performances to legendary bands, for shows year-round. The Carolina Opry Theater also features its own resident performers, including the internationally renowned hip-hop clogging group, All That!

Walking into the theater, guests feel transported back in time. The grand lobby features historic memorabilia, an art gallery, gift shop and concession stand. Inside, the theater features comfortable seating for up to 2,000 guests, all with clear views of the stage.

7 | Walk along the Boardwalk and Promenade

If you’re wondering how to spend a day in Myrtle Beach, going at a leisurely pace and still experiencing some of the iconic, must-do Myrtle Beach activities, the answer is simple… Head to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade.

The 1.2-mile Boardwalk and Promenade is located between the Atlantic Ocean and N. Ocean Blvd. and features plenty of fun activities for all ages.

• Play vintage and modern games at the Fun Plaza Arcade
• Shop for souvenirs at the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove – Myrtle Beach’s oldest and largest gift shop
• Do some fishing, dining or just watch for dolphins from the the 2nd Avenue Pier or Pier 14
• Be amazed at one (or all) of the Ripley’s attractions
• Learn about Myrtle Beach’s history on plaques located along the Promenade
• Take a selfie with a sea turtle or crazy fish
• Enjoy live music and seasonal festivals in Plyler Park

8 | Take a ride on the SkyWheel

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 1110 N Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

The SkyWheel at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is the oldest observation wheel of its kind in the U.S. Reaching nearly 200 feet at the top, the SkyWheel offers panoramic views of Myrtle Beach and the ocean from temperature-controlled pods perfect for a comfortable ride anytime of the year.

For riders wanting more than the traditional four-revolution experience, consider one of these unique opportunities:

• Sunrise Flight – available on select days only, this experience includes a 30-minute ride, coffee and pastries
• Sunset experience – not a designated experience, but if you time your ride right you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the sun setting over Myrtle Beach from high in the sky

9 | Listen to live music at The Bowery

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 110 9th Ave. N, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

The Bowery – located on the Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade – is a must-visit destination. The oldest bar and music venue in Myrtle Beach, The Bowery is known for its cold drinks, cheap food and live entertainment. From 1973 to 1980, The Bowery’s house band was Alabama, one of America’s most iconic and beloved country music groups. Today, The Bounty Hunters play nightly starting at 8:30 p.m. Grab a seat at the bar, enjoy a cocktail on the patio or come for the music – but don’t miss a visit to The Bowery.

10 | Shop, dine, and play at Broadway at the Beach

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 1325 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Don’t be fooled… Broadway at the Beach isn’t really at the beach. But it is a vibrant shopping and entertainment venue at Myrtle Beach. Covering more than 350 acres around Lake Broadway, Broadway at the Beach offers everything from a nostalgic amusement park, go-kart track and jet boat rides; to fine dining, the Ripley’s Aquarium and live shows at the Broadway Theater.

Broadway at the Beach is a very family-friendly venue, but also offers plenty of things to do for adults.

11 | Play a round of mini-golf

While Myrtle Beach is considered a golfer’s paradise, you don’t have to be a golfer to have fun golfing. There are more than 30 mini golf courses in Myrtle Beach, perfect for a fun, no-pressure day for anyone wanting a golf experience.

PopStroke – located at Broadway at the Beach – features two 18-hole courses. And, just like traditional golf courses, PopStroke’s courses include sections of tricky rough, fairways, and bunkers that golfers must navigate (all built on synthetic turf). You can order food and drinks using the PopStroke app to enjoy while putting your way around the course.

And what round of golf would be complete without time to celebrate your accomplishments at the “19th hole”? Enjoy an after-golf meal at their onsite restaurant or sports bar.

12 | Watch a sunrise

Sunrise comes early along the Atlantic Coast, but there’s hardly a better way to start the day than to wake up early to watch the sunrise spill over the ocean. If you’re lucky enough to have an ocean-front room with a patio, sitting with a warm cup of coffee, listening to the sound of the waves, and watching as the sun makes its debut is both peaceful and awe inspiring.

👉🏼 TIP: When booking your room, look for “ocean front,” not “ocean view.” There’s a big difference between the two and if your heart is set on a nice patio facing the waves, ocean front is the way to go.

13 | Take a walk on the beach

Our personal favorite thing to do at Myrtle Beach was walk along the beach. In the off season, the beach is wide open and inviting, perfect for a morning or afternoon walk. The sand is soft and warm, and the water just warm enough to enjoy letting it wash over your feet.

From the beach, there are several pathways to easily make your way back to N. Ocean Blvd. and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, many with fresh water showers to rinse the sand and salt off your feet.

14 | Stroll along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

👉🏼 ADDRESS: 4025 US 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

Another gem of the Grand Strand is the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. This half-mile boardwalk connects eight restaurants, many featuring live music nightly and dining with spectacular views of the natural saltwater estuary.

As you stroll along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, you might encounter Drunken Jack, one of the characters from Murrells Inlet’s past and namesake of Drunken Jack’s restaurant. While there, read about the local lore of this storied pirate and snack on their amazing hushpuppies with honey butter before enjoying a fresh seafood or steak dinner.

The MarshWalk is another great place for birdwatching. White and Great Blue herons and pelicans can be seen resting on the docks and fishing in the marsh waters. Egrets, osprey, crabs and dolphins can also be seen from the boardwalk.

15 | Eat all the seafood

Sometimes referred to as the “seafood capital” of South Carolina, Myrtle Beach’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes it the perfect place to experience fresh seafood. There’s no shortage of seafood buffets in Myrtle Beach, but for a more personalized experience, here are a handful of restaurants we recommend:

• Captain Archie’s – The perfect spot to grab a bite to eat before or after a dolphin cruise. Located along the Intracoastal Waterway in North Myrtle Beach, Captain Archie’s features a casual atmosphere with indoor seating and outdoor picnic tables by the water, and live music most nights.
• Pier 14 Seafood Restaurant, Gift Shop and Fishing Pier – Located on the north end of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, Pier 14 is a great place to grab a bite while enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean. The shark bites, served with boom boom sauce, were amazing!
• Landry’s Seafood House – One of the many restaurants at Broadway at the Beach, Landry’s may be a chain restaurant with locations across the country, but it is definitely worth visiting while in Myrtle Beach. Landry’s menu offers so many seafood options it’s hard to choose.
• Dirty Don’s Oyster Bar & Grill – With three locations in Myrtle Beach, you’re bound to find yourself near a Dirty Don’s Oyster Bar sometime during your stay! Not surprising, Dirty Don’s offers your pick of oysters – served raw, steamed, fried or as a shooter. A unique and delicious starter is their Tuna Avocado Boats – avocado halves stuffed with ahi tuna and cabbage, then topped with wonton crisps and drizzled sauces. For a well-rounded, shareable meal, order the Dirty Don’s Dunkin’ Pot – stuffed with a variety of seafood, corn, potatoes and sausage.
• Hot Fish Club – The Hot Fish Club in Murrells Inlet is located in the oldest restaurant building in the Grand Strand and has a storied past dating back to pre-Civil War days when it was said to be started on Drunken Jack’s Island. Today, you’ll enjoy dishes prepared with locally sourced seafood, produce and dairy ingredients. Specialty dishes you really should try include the Lobster Pot Pie or Shrimp & Grits Hot Fish Style.
• Southern Hops Brewing Company – The brewery at Murrells Inlet is a great place to grab lunch and a beer flight after a hike through Huntington Beach State Park and Brookgreen Gardens. Southern Hops features craft beers and hard seltzers, as well as a full menu of traditional pub fare and specialty dishes. Keeping with our seafood theme, give the Lowcountry Shrimp Burrito a try!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax on the beach, indulge in fresh seafood or get out for some hiking, golfing or boating, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has it all.

One of our favorite aspects of Myrtle Beach is that you can plan your trip during peak tourist season for a bustling summertime experience or head to the coast for a quiet, off-season experience in the fall and winter months. You get to decide how you want your time at the beach to look.