The Best Family Trip to Myrtle BeachMake unforgettable family memories in Myrtle Beach with thrilling attractions like the SkyWheel, Myrtle Waves, and Ripley’s Aquarium. Enjoy kid-friendly eats, beachfront resorts, and dolphin tours with this fun-filled guide that has everything for the ultimate coastal adventure with kids! 🎡🌊🌴AuthorsSteller
DestinationsMyrtle BeachItinerary

Must-Visit Myrtle Beach Attractions

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
Deep dive into the ocean with a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach! Explore thousands of aquatic animals in 10 different exhibits featuring everything from the giant Pacific octopus to otherworldly jellyfish. In Ray Bay, you can learn about several different types of rays and even touch a ray in the shallow end of the tank! Other exhibits include Rio Amazon, Ocean Wonders, Tropical Rainforest, Friendship Flats, Planet Jellies, Rainbow Rock, Sloth Valley, Dangerous Reef, and the Living Gallery. Tip: Check the schedule—the aquarium often holds special events like Breakfast with a Mermaid, Penguin and Sloth Encounters, and even a cocktail class called Fin & Tonic.
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SkyWheel Myrtle Beach
Take a ride on the famous Myrtle Beach SkyWheel! Ride up, up, up to 187 feet in one of its 42 glass-enclosed (and climate-controlled) gondolas for a spectacular view of the coastline. A ride at sunset will be an unforgettable family moment. Remember to say cheese and snap a selfie at the top! Tip: Purchase your tickets in advance, and if you want to ride longer in a VIP gondola, consider purchasing the VIP experience.
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Broadway at the Beach
For all kinds of family fun, Broadway at the Beach has you covered with shops, restaurants, on-site attractions, live music and entertainment, and more! The huge outdoor complex features everything from playgrounds and a Ferris wheel to live shows at the Legends in Concert Theater. There are tons of places to eat with choices for the whole family, like Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, The Grumpy Monk at Broadway, and Landry’s Seafood House! You can also shop till you drop at over 100 stores, like Disney Gifts at the Beach and the Savannah Bee Company. There are also special events happening in and around Broadway at the Beach every day, such as live music every night at the outdoor stage, The Hangout.
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Myrtle Waves Water Park
Join in on the fun at Myrtle Waves Water Park, the largest waterpark in South Carolina! With 22 slides, the family will have no shortage of entertainment or fun all day long here. The park has a mix of tube, body, and mat slides to choose from, as well as a wave pool, a lazy river, and the simulated surfing experience, FlowRider. For younger kids, check out the Bubble Bay!
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Family Kingdom Amusement Park
You’ll be set for the day with a visit to the oceanside Family Kingdom Amusement Park, which has been a Myrtle Beach staple since 1966. With 37 rides, ranging from go-karts to thrilling coasters, you’ll be hooting and hollering and laughing all day with each other. The legendary “Swamp Fox” wooden roller coaster is a classic and has been in the park since opening day! Note: The park closes for the 2025 season on Sept. 7.
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Broadway Grand Prix
Honk! Honk! Ready for some thrills for the whole family? Race around one of seven go-kart tracks, try your hand at classic arcade games, and swing away on one of the two 18-hole mini golf courses at the Broadway Grand Prix. Got little kiddos? Two go-kart tracks were made just for them, but there’s also the Kids Zone with a carousel, teacups, a train, and more gentle rides that are just their speed.
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EdVenture Myrtle Beach
Welcome to the largest children’s museum in the Southeast United States: EdVenture Children’s Museum! Explore 13 different immersive exhibits and have fun learning in several hands-on lab experiences. At the Dalmation Station, slide down the fire pole in a pint-size station, explore inside a real fire truck, and learn how to create a fire safety plan at home. At Flight, kids can see what it’s like to pilot an aircraft in a real simulator! And meet Eddie, the museum’s 40-foot-tall kid, whom families can climb inside to see how the human body works.
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Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf
Play a round (or two) of Atlantis-themed mini golf at Mt. Atalanticus Minotaur Golf, complete with two 18-hole courses that feature plunging waterfalls, hidden caves, and aquatic life. You definitely can't miss this place with its Mountain-Top Golf Huts 75 feet up in the air!
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Outdoorsy Adventures for All

Kokopelli Surf Camp, Paddleboard & Kayak Tours & Rentals
Head to Myrtle Beach’s sunny shores to take surfing lessons in the gentle, lapping waves! Lessons are for beginners or experienced surfers looking to up their skillset. In addition, you can try your hand at kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or even rent your own surfing equipment.
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Surfside Beach Fishing Pier
This newer wooden pier opened in 2024 to celebrate Surfside’s 60th anniversary. This is the perfect spot for a sunset stroll and beautiful ocean views. Walking on the pier is free, but if you plan to do some pier fishing (as the name suggests), there are fees. Plan for a stop at Drippy’s, a favorite ice cream shop, too!
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Myrtle Beach State Park
Visit Myrtle Beach State Park for sandy beaches and sparkling coastlines, maritime forests with Southern magnolias and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Head to the shore to escape the sun, and spot wildlife like nesting loggerhead sea turtleBrookgreen Gardens, founded in 1931, is one of the finest outdoor museums in the U.S. and is located on over 9,100 acres on the South Carolina coast halfway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. Stroll down Live Oak Allée under a canopy created by 250-year-old Live Oaks dripping with Spanish moss. Check out the beautiful Buttes, bald eagles, and more. Fish from the park’s pier, or try surf fishing for flounder, king mackerel, trout, and more. Complete with campsites, cabins, and just a short drive from downtown, escape to the coast for a special night under the stars and around the campfire. Note: Admission to the State Park is per person; there is a fee for pier fishing, and those who want to surf fish will need to have a saltwater fishing license.
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Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens, founded in 1931, is one of the finest outdoor museums in the U.S. and is located on over 9,100 acres on the South Carolina coast halfway between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. Stroll down Live Oak Allée under a canopy created by 250-year-old Live Oaks. Check out the Butterfly Garden on your way to the Huntington Sculpture Garden, featuring the largest collection of American figurative sculpture in the country—there are more than 2,000 to see! Other gardens include the Brenda W. Rosen Carolina Terrace Garden, which is filled with roses, azaleas, and other blooming shrubs, and the Palmetto Garden featuring South Carolina’s state tree, water features, and whimsical fountains. Brookgreen Gardens is known in the Lowcountry for its spectacular events, including Nights of a Thousand Candles, which is a very popular holiday festival where the gardens light up in thousands of twinkling lights. Be sure to book tickets to this event well in advance. ✨
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Family-Friendly Restaurants

Sea Captain's House
Looking for a memorable night out with the family? Dine in a traditional 1930s cottage overlooking the Carolina coast, as you enjoy seafood plates like Charleston Style Crab Cakes and specialty dishes like Pecan Crusted Grouper. There’s something for kids, too, from chicken fingers to a PB&J sandwich. For the adult crowd, check out the extensive specialty cocktail menu and, for dessert, indulge in a Southern favorite, Hummingbird Cake! Sea Captain’s House is a Myrtle Beach staple for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is a favorite spot for celebrations and special occasions.
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Croissants Bistro & Bakery
Croissants Bistro & Bakery is a local favorite where French cuisine and Southern staples meet. Try the Baked Brie topped with lemon blueberry compote, a fragrant rosemary sprig, and served with house-made lavash bread. Head in for brunch and some Bananas Foster French Toast or the Shrimp & Grits with andouille sausage and fried green tomatoes. Bon appétit, y’all!
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Hoskins Restaurant
Serving the Grand Strand for over 70 years, Hoskins Restaurant is a Myrtle Beach staple. This family-owned diner will feed the whole family with juicy steaks, fresh locally sourced seafood, and Lowcountry favorites like homemade pimento cheese grits! Come hungry!
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The Crafty Cow
For a sweet treat, The Crafty Cow serves up fresh small-batch ice cream in 16 flavors. Delight in one of their famous mason jar parfaits, or one of their homemade flavors (made daily) like blueberry cheesecake or Southern praline. 🍦🍨
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Hook & Barrel
A hip, nautical-inspired restaurant, Hook & Barrel, specializes in local, fresh-caught seafood dishes. Check out the Steam Galley menu and try the Seafood Tower or fresh oysters in the shell. Other menus include non-seafood-centric options, a kids’ menu, small plates, and sweets. Check out their Sunday Brunch and happy hour options, too! You and your family are sure to be hooked.
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Flying Fish Public Market & Grill
Looking for a memorable waterfront dining experience? At the Flying Fish Public Market, you can dine on Lowcountry favorites like hush puppies, raw bar items like South Carolina oysters, and sushi rolls as you gaze out at the Intracoastal Waterway scenery. A blend of upscale seafood and local classics, the Flying Fish Public Market was inspired by the Pike Place Public Market in Seattle and the Pearlz Oyster Bar concept—it’s part restaurant and part seafood market!
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Boardwalk Billy's
Overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, Boardwalk Billy’s is the spot for drinks, food, and good times for all. Sit outside with the family and soak up the sun on their spacious patio with amazing views. Try one of their hearty burgers, dig into an oyster po’ boy, or go big with a crab leg dinner! Plus, enjoy live music practically every evening.
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The Hangout
Complete with an on-site foam pit, family games, dancing, and free live music, a trip to The Hangout is for more than just food. Every hour, you can join one of the foam parties or lawn games, and the indoor arcade is always open. Located right at Broadway at the Beach, the family-friendly restaurant is a favorite because parents can relax and enjoy their meals while kids have a blast! Feast on the Lowcountry Super Shrimp Boil or try the Hangout Wagyu Burger, and later, stretch out near the fire pit, play with the kids in a giant sandbox, or even get henna tattoos for the whole family. There are more than 20 different activities to join in on!
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LuLu's North Myrtle Beach
Located at Barefoot Landing, Lulu's restaurant specializes in Southern-style seafood and more. The restaurant proudly serves scratch-made (never frozen) dishes that were created by the original owner, Lucy Buffett, in her own kitchen. Favorites include the Crab Melt sandwich, Gulf Shrimp and Grits, fried oysters, and several styles of tacos. Tip: Lulu’s has extensive allergy-free menus, including dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, shellfish-free, soy-free, seafood-free, and sesame- and nut-free! Lulu’s always has something going on to entertain the whole family. In addition to special events (like a live band bash), there’s an arcade, a youth ropes course, and even a whole “beach” at the restaurant with beach volleyball!
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Carolina Roadhouse
It feels like summer all year long at Carolina Roadhouse with its centerpiece palm tree, a wide variety of seafood options, and bumping jams playing all day. Carolina Roadhouse is a favorite for families thanks to dishes like a giant seafood platter, chili cheese fries, and piled-high sandwiches and burgers—the portion sizes are huge!
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Bummz Beach Cafe
Enjoy oceanfront views with a delicious meal at Bummz Beach Café! Comfy Adirondack chairs with oceanfront views, paired with a drink or snacks nearby, make for a laid-back, beachy family afternoon. The Fish Tacos or Boom Boom Shrimp Tacos will win everyone over!
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Melt
Locally owned and operated, Melt serves up wood-fired pizzas and artisan grilled sandwiches that people rave about. The vibe is chill at Melt, but the pizza and sandwiches are hot! Try the Pimento Patty sandwich or the Green Goddess pizza with olive oil, basil, pesto, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and ricotta. They also have a Bacon and Onion Dip that people love.
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Family-Fun Experiences

2 HR Dolphin Tour in North Myrtle Beach
The Island Excursion Dolphin Watch & Sunset Cruise in North Myrtle Beach offers a delightful 2-hour adventure aboard a catamaran, cruising the Intracoastal Waterway. The experienced crew will allow you to spot wild bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and various bird species around the barrier islands. You’ll stop at Waites Island, explore uninhabited beaches, admire seashells, and enjoy the more peaceful, coastal environment, too.
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Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach Admission
Get ready to get down! 🎵💃🕺🎶 The Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach offers a high-energy tribute show featuring live performances by talented impersonators of iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and Madonna. You’ll get to see five different acts in one evening, backed by live bands and professional dancers. A night out with the kids here will be sure to have everyone singing and grooving along.
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Surf Lessons in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Surf lessons with Jack's Surf Lessons and Board Rentals at Myrtle Beach offer an engaging introduction to surfing, with one- or two-hour sessions led by certified instructors. Participants receive personalized guidance, ensuring they feel at ease while learning to catch waves! It’s a perfect activity under the Myrtle Beach sun where kids can hit the waves while parents cheer from the shore (or vice versa)!
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Kid-Friendly Stays

Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort
Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort in Myrtle Beach is dedicated to making family vacations easy and fun, with a submarine-themed water park for kids, nine unique pools, a 50-foot slide, an indoor lazy river, and a shipwreck playground—all just steps from your oceanfront room. Conveniently located right on the beach and only five minutes from the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk!
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Coral Beach Resort and Suites
It’s no wonder Coral Beach Resort in Myrtle Beach was named “Best Family Resort” by the Travel Channel—it feels like a built-in playground for families, with ocean view rooms with private balconies, an oceanfront waterpark for kids, a lazy river, and indoor and outdoor pools. Plus, there is plenty to do after the sun goes down inside with bowling, arcades, and snack options, so parents can sip and relax while the kids stay happily busy.
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Dunes Village Resort
Dunes Village Resort in Myrtle Beach is a dream vacation stay for families, with a huge 30,000-square-foot indoor waterpark packed with slides, a lazy river, and fun themed play areas. The kids will be tired out by bedtime, for sure! Plus, with outdoor pools, whirlpools, and more, all just steps from your ocean view suite, you’ll all be excited to come back after a day exploring Myrtle Beach. Want to spend the day at your resort-style hotel? Check out the basketball and tennis courts while the kids head to the year-round kids’ club.
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Grand Atlantic Ocean Resort
Start your day with a view of the ocean at the Grand Atlantic Ocean Resort in Myrtle Beach. Enjoy a laid-back, family-friendly stay with spacious condos ranging from studios to four bedrooms, all featuring full kitchens and ocean-view balconies. Kids can splash in the indoor lazy river, kiddie pool, and outdoor pool while parents relax on the beachfront lawn or grab a bite at the seasonal café. With easy beach access and homey comforts, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and coastal fun!
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Holiday Pavilion Resort on the Boardwalk
Right in the heart of Myrtle Beach’s buzzing Boardwalk scene, Holiday Pavilion Resort is a beachfront hotel where families can cool off in indoor/outdoor pools, float the lazy river, then walk straight to arcades, ice cream, and the SkyWheel!
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