Myrtle Beach Travel Guide: Best Beaches, Attractions & Events

If you’re looking for the perfect vacation packed with sunshine, ocean views, and endless entertainment, this Myrtle Beach travel guide is here to help. Located in South Carolina along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular coastal destinations in the U.S. With 60 miles of sandy shoreline, diverse attractions, and a calendar full of exciting events, there’s something for everyone in Myrtle Beach.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with your family, or planning a romantic getaway, you’ll find that this beach town blends relaxation and adventure seamlessly. This Myrtle Beach travel guide will walk you through everything you need to plan the ultimate trip—from the best beaches to local events and hidden gems.

Top Reasons to Use a Myrtle Beach Travel Guide

Myrtle Beach is more than just sun and surf. While the stunning ocean views draw millions of visitors annually, there’s so much more waiting to be explored. A travel guide helps uncover not just popular tourist spots but also lesser-known hidden gems.

This Myrtle Beach travel guide is your key to discovering the best spots for entertainment, beach fun, dining, and more. Use it to avoid tourist traps, find the best parking options, and learn which events are worth attending during your stay.

Best Beaches to Visit in Myrtle Beach

The beach is the heart of this coastal destination, and Myrtle Beach has plenty of it. From wide, soft-sand shores to family-friendly access points, here are some must-visit beaches along the South Carolina coastline.

Myrtle Beach Central – The Iconic Stretch

Right at the center of the action, this stretch is the most recognizable part of Myrtle Beach. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want quick access to dining, shopping, and the beach and boardwalk. The area is also home to the famous Myrtle Beach boardwalk, making it ideal for a full day of oceanfront fun.

North Myrtle Beach – Quiet and Scenic

If you’re looking for a little more peace and space, North Myrtle Beach offers a quieter alternative. It’s excellent for families and those who want to avoid larger crowds. The beaches here are clean, wide, and great for a relaxing beach day.

Surfside Beach – Family Friendly Fun

Known as “The Family Beach,” Surfside Beach lives up to its nickname. It’s a favorite among families with kids, offering calm waves, lifeguards, and nearby playgrounds.

Huntington Beach State Park – Nature Meets Beach

Located just south of the city, Huntington Beach State Park combines beach access with outdoor adventure. It features birdwatching trails, marshes, and the historic Atalaya Castle. It’s also one of the best spots for nature lovers looking to explore beyond the sand.

Attractions Not to Miss in Myrtle Beach

The best Myrtle Beach travel guide includes top attractions that make the area so much fun to explore. Here’s what to see and do when you’re not lounging on the beach.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk – A Classic Coastal Experience

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk is a must-see, filled with shops, arcades, eateries, and the famous SkyWheel. It’s a hub of activity and great for people-watching, ocean views, and evening strolls. The boardwalk lights up at night with live entertainment and street performers.

Broadway at the Beach – Entertainment Central

Broadway at the Beach is a massive outdoor complex with restaurants, shops, and attractions. It’s home to WonderWorks, Ripley’s Aquarium, and even an amusement park. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an exciting day or night out.

Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Classic Beachside Rides

Located just steps from the ocean, this nostalgic amusement park has been entertaining families for decades. With a classic wooden roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and kid-friendly rides, it’s one of Myrtle Beach’s most charming attractions.

Myrtle Waves Water Park – Cool Off with a Splash

Beat the heat at this 20-acre water park featuring lazy rivers, high-speed slides, and splash zones. It’s an ideal spot for families, especially during the hot summer months.

Myrtle Beach Travel Guide to Annual Events and Festivals

No Myrtle Beach travel guide would be complete without a rundown of its lively event scene. The area hosts festivals, parades, music events, and more all year long.

Carolina Country Music Fest

Held in early June, this massive beachside music festival draws top country artists and thousands of fans. It takes place near the Myrtle Beach boardwalk and is one of the biggest events of the year.

Sun Fun Festival

One of the area’s oldest traditions, the Sun Fun Festival kicks off summer with parades, contests, and live entertainment. It’s perfect for families and takes place along the Grand Strand.

Myrtle Beach Bike Week

Held twice annually, Bike Week draws motorcycle enthusiasts from across the U.S. to ride, party, and explore Myrtle. Whether you’re a biker or just a fan of high-energy events, it’s a spectacle worth experiencing.

Fall Bike Week – A Quieter Vibe

Known as “The Pilgrimage,” the fall edition of Bike Week offers all the fun without the massive summer crowds. It’s a great time to visit if you enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Where to Stay: Myrtle Beach Travel Guide Picks

Choosing where to stay can shape your whole trip. Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious oceanfront resorts.

Oceanfront Resorts and Hotels

Stay close to the water at properties like The Breakers Resort, North Beach Resort & Villas, or the Caribbean Resort. These offer everything from beachfront pools to on-site dining.

Vacation Rentals and Condos

Traveling with a group? Myrtle Beach has countless vacation rental options—many with ocean views and full kitchens. Great for longer stays or families.

Campgrounds and RV Parks

For something different, consider camping at Myrtle Beach State Park or staying at an RV resort. These offer natural beauty with easy access to the beach.

Dining: Where to Find Fresh Seafood and Southern Flavors

Myrtle Beach is a paradise for seafood lovers. Restaurants all along the coastline serve everything from fried shrimp to award-winning crab cakes.

• Sea Captain’s House – A historic favorite known for fresh seafood and stunning views.
• Mr. Fish – Great for creative seafood dishes in a casual setting.
• Drunken Jack’s – Located just south in Murrells Inlet, this local gem combines food, fun, and waterfront views.

Look out for she-crab soup, hush puppies, and fresh catch specials on every menu. Many restaurants also feature live music and patio dining.

Myrtle Beach Travel Guide to Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Spots

Looking to avoid the crowds? This part of the Myrtle Beach travel guide highlights off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Brookgreen Gardens

Part sculpture garden, part botanical oasis, and part wildlife preserve, this serene spot is perfect for a peaceful afternoon.

Atalaya Castle

Located within Huntington Beach State Park, this Spanish-style castle was once a winter home and now stands as a historic landmark worth exploring.

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens

This quiet nature park offers boardwalks through salt marshes and shaded trails, perfect for a morning walk or sunset stroll.

Getting Around Myrtle Beach: Parking and Travel Tips

Traveling around Myrtle Beach is easy with the right info. Whether you’re renting a car or using rideshare, here are tips to help you get around:

• Metered Parking is available near most beach access points.
• Free Parking can be found at some resorts, public parks, and shopping centers.
• Public Transit and Shuttles run seasonally in major areas.

The Myrtle Beach International Airport is located close to downtown and is served by most major airlines.

Outdoor Fun Beyond the Beach

There’s plenty to explore beyond the ocean. This section of the Myrtle Beach travel guide focuses on adventures for outdoor enthusiasts.

Golf Courses Along the Grand Strand

Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s paradise with over 90 golf courses. Some top picks include:

• TPC Myrtle Beach – A tournament-caliber course with pristine landscaping.
• Barefoot Resort & Golf – Home to four courses designed by golf legends.

Water Adventures and Eco Tours

Try kayaking through salt marshes, paddleboarding on the Intracoastal Waterway, or booking a dolphin cruise. Many outfitters offer rentals and guided tours for all experience levels.

Final Thoughts: Why Myrtle Beach Should Be Your Next Destination

With sandy beaches, a lively boardwalk, and activities for all ages, Myrtle Beach offers everything you need for a memorable vacation. Whether you’re drawn by fresh seafood, live entertainment, or beautiful scenery, this destination never disappoints.

This Myrtle Beach travel guide has everything you need to plan your trip, from hidden gems to the top events happening around Myrtle Beach. As one of South Carolina’s most beloved destinations, it continues to be a place where families, couples, and solo travelers can all find something to love.

So pack your bags, grab some sunscreen, and let this guide lead the way to unforgettable memories in Myrtle Beach.