Top 10 Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Families
Your family will love it!
Myrtle Beach is one of the most beloved family vacation destinations on the East Coast, and for good reason. With miles of sandy shoreline, world-class attractions, and endless entertainment options, there's something for every age group. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or teenagers, Myrtle Beach delivers unforgettable experiences that bring families closer together. Planning your stay at an oceanfront property like our Starfish Reef studio puts you steps from the sand and minutes from all the action.
No family trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a visit to Broadway at the Beach. This sprawling entertainment complex features shopping, dining, attractions, and live entertainment all centered around a beautiful lake. Kids love the rides at Pavilion Park, and the whole family can enjoy everything from mini golf to midway games. Plan to spend at least half a day here — there's truly that much to explore.
Located at Broadway at the Beach, Ripley's Aquarium is consistently rated one of the best aquariums in the country. Walk through the stunning underwater tunnel as sharks, sea turtles, and rays glide overhead. Interactive touch tanks, a jellyfish gallery, and mermaid shows make this an engaging experience for children of all ages. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds during peak summer season.
Of course, the beach itself is the main attraction. Myrtle Beach offers 60 miles of coastline with calm, warm waters perfect for swimming, boogie boarding, and building sandcastles. Staying at our oceanfront Starfish Reef property means you can walk right out to the sand without worrying about parking or long drives. For families who want a break from the ocean waves, the area is also home to several incredible water parks.
Myrtle Beach is known as the "Mini Golf Capital of the World," and families are spoiled for choice. From pirate-themed courses to tropical jungle adventures, there's a course to match every interest. A few standout options include:
Rising 187 feet above the Boardwalk, the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. The climate-controlled gondolas are comfortable for all ages, and a ride at sunset is truly magical. The surrounding Boardwalk area is packed with shops, restaurants, and street performers, making it an ideal spot for an evening family outing.
WonderWorks is an indoor amusement park for the mind, housed inside a famously upside-down building on Broadway at the Beach. With over 100 interactive exhibits spread across six wonder zones, kids can experience everything from hurricane-force winds to lying on a bed of nails. The combination of education and entertainment makes this a rainy-day favorite — or a welcome break from the afternoon sun.
Myrtle Beach is home to some of the best dinner theater shows on the East Coast. Families can choose between two spectacular options:
Both shows are hugely popular during peak season, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Just south of Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet, Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning 9,127-acre property featuring sculpture gardens, a wildlife preserve, and a lowcountry history trail. Families can see native animals like foxes, otters, and bald eagles in natural habitats, and the children's garden offers interactive outdoor play areas. It's a peaceful change of pace from the bustling boardwalk and a wonderful way to connect with the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast.
Getting out on the water is a quintessential Myrtle Beach experience. Families can choose from a variety of ocean adventures:
The Track Family Fun Parks operate multiple locations in the Myrtle Beach area and feature elevated go-kart tracks, bumper boats, kiddie rides, and arcades. The multi-level tracks with banked turns are a huge hit with older kids and teens, while younger children have their own dedicated tracks and rides. It's high-energy family fun that never gets old, no matter how many times you visit.
To make the most of your Myrtle Beach family vacation, keep these tips in mind:
From thrilling rides and interactive museums to peaceful gardens and unforgettable ocean adventures, Myrtle Beach truly has it all for families. The combination of natural beauty, affordable attractions, and Southern hospitality keeps families coming back year after year. When you're ready to plan your trip, consider staying at Starfish Reef, our oceanfront king-bed studio that puts you right on the beach — because the best family vacations start with the perfect home base. Browse our Myrtle Beach vacation rentals with Blue Ridge Rentals and start making memories your family will talk about for years to come.