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Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Families with Kids: Unforgettable Fun Awaits!

Are you searching for the ultimate family adventure along South Carolina’s beloved coastline? Wondering if the best things to do in Myrtle Beach for families with kids might be hiding in plain sight—or off the beaten path? Get ready to dive into a dynamic guide that will unlock endless family fun. Whether you’re planning your first visit or looking to explore like a local, this article reveals the top must-see attractions, hidden gems, and clever planning tips for your perfect beach family getaway. Curious About the Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Families with Kids? Are you ready to uncover the best things to do in Myrtle Beach for families with kids that’ll create memories for a lifetime? What if the most fun spots in Myrtle Beach were the ones you’d never considered? Unlock Endless Family Adventure: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Families with Kids What You'll Discover Top 20+ best things to do in Myrtle Beach for families with kids , complete with practical details and local insights Insider secrets for Myrtle Beach family fun —from amusement parks to hidden gems Tips for saving money and planning the perfect beach family itinerary on the Grand Strand Local guides on North Myrtle , state parks, and the best family-friendly attractions Table: Quick Comparison of Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Families with Kids Attraction Recommended Ages Cost Level Type of Activity Family Kingdom Amusement Park All ages $$ Amusement Park Broadway at the Beach All ages Varies Shopping, Dining, Entertainment Myrtle Waves Water Park 5+ $$ Water Park Brookgreen Gardens 6+ $$ Gardens, Zoo-Like Habitats Mini Golf Courses All ages $-$$ Mini Golf, Adventure Myrtle Beach State Park All ages $ Nature, Hiking, Beach Market Common All ages Varies Shopping, Dining, Parks Barefoot Landing All ages Varies Shopping, Wildlife, Entertainment 1. Enjoy Sandy Shorelines at Myrtle Beach: The Top Beach Family Fun Why Myrtle Beach is a Must for Families Easy access to soft sands and lifeguarded areas Shell collecting and sandcastle building for all ages Boardwalk vibes and safe swim zones Myrtle Beach’s iconic coastline is the heartbeat of any beach family vacation. With miles of golden sand, gentle Atlantic waves, and areas closely watched by attentive lifeguards, families with kids of all ages find this a playground for pure fun and relaxation. The main beach area offers plenty of space for sandcastle contests, seashell hunting, and unwinding in the salt and sun. Shade umbrellas, beach gear, and even sandcastle kits can be rented locally for ultimate convenience. A walk along the vibrant Myrtle Beach Boardwalk brings you to a world of classic seaside amusements: arcades, ice cream stalls, and exciting summer nights filled with live music. Kids can splash safely in designated swim zones, while parents enjoy the peace of mind that comes with clean beaches and well-patrolled surroundings. There’s no better way to launch or end your Myrtle Beach family adventure. "Nothing says family vacation more than a day spent on the iconic shores of Myrtle Beach." – Local Parent 2. Dive into Excitement at Myrtle Waves Water Park and Other Splash Zones Exploring Top Water Parks for Myrtle Beach Family Fun Myrtle Waves Water Park: Wave pools and family-friendly slides Wild Water & Wheels: Fun zones for little kids and thrill-seekers Rainy day indoor water parks nearby When it’s time to cool down, Myrtle Waves Water Park takes Myrtle Beach family fun to the next level. Kids and parents flock to wave pools, lazy rivers, and heart-pounding slides. With attractions suited for both little ones and adrenaline-junkies, this water park is a must for families. The gentle play areas are perfect for younger kids, while daring teens can race down the park’s biggest slides. Don’t overlook Wild Water & Wheels for even more splashy fun, with zones dedicated to mini rides, go-karts, and bumper boats. Are summer showers threatening your plans? Myrtle Beach has you covered with several indoor water park options that guarantee fun regardless of weather. Families can budget for a full day or purchase combo passes to save more on wet and wild adventures. 3. Mini Golf Galore: Themed Courses Across Myrtle Beach for Families with Kids Best Mini Golf Adventures in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Pirate-themed mini golf (Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf) Jurassic Golf for dinosaur fans Tips for choosing the best mini golf spots Myrtle Beach is called the "Mini Golf Capital of the World" for good reason! Imaginative courses with animated pirates, roaring dinosaurs, and enchanted castles bring families together for hours of competitive fun. Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf offers a swashbuckling, multi-level adventure across bridges and waterfalls, igniting every child’s imagination. For dinosaur lovers, Jurassic Golf is thrilling with life-size dino statues and prehistoric caves. No Myrtle Beach vacation is complete without a mini golf showdown, whether you’re keeping score with teens or letting little ones play at their own pace. Many courses offer shaded paths, affordable prices, and evening lighting—making them an excellent diversion even after a beach day. Pro tip: save with multi-course passes or online coupons, and check for special toddler-friendly times at some locations. 4. Broadway at the Beach: Shop, Dine, and Play All Day Why Families Love Broadway at the Beach on the Grand Strand Ripley’s Aquarium and WonderWorks: Kids' favorites Family-friendly dining at LandShark and Paula Deen’s Nighttime fireworks and entertainment At Broadway at the Beach , there’s never a dull moment for families. Set around sparkling lakes on the Grand Strand, this entertainment complex is bursting with opportunities for dining, shopping, and hands-on play. Take your kids to Ripley’s Aquarium , where sharks glide overhead in underwater tunnels and touch tanks bring sea life up close. For indoor thrills, WonderWorks offers hundreds of interactive science exhibits that make learning a true adventure. Hungry after all the excitement? Savor chef-inspired southern classics at Paula Deen’s or enjoy beach-side vibes at LandShark Bar & Grill. Broadwalk at the Beach’s calendar is filled with holiday and summer events, including free fireworks shows and live entertainment most nights. It’s the kind of one-stop destination that keeps every member of your beach family happy from morning until night. 5. Thrills at Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Classic Myrtle Beach Family Entertainment Must-See Rides and Attractions for Kids at Family Kingdom Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster: A local legend Traditional carousel and kiddie rides Ticket tips and combo passes for families The Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a treasured piece of Myrtle Beach history, drawing families with its nostalgic boardwalk vibe and timeless amusements. At its heart stands the Swamp Fox , a legendary wooden roller coaster that’s thrilled generations with heart-stopping drops and classic turns. For younger kids, classic carousels and gentle train rides create moments of magic and laughter. Family Kingdom’s ticketing is flexible—you can buy single ride tickets or all-day wristbands depending on your family’s thrill level. Special combo passes combine amusement park rides with access to neighboring water parks, ensuring value for all-day fun. As the sun sets, sparkling lights illuminate the boardwalk and the laughter never seems to end—a must-visit for any Myrtle Beach family. 6. Explore Nature at Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures in State Parks Hiking and Jr. Ranger programs Fishing piers and picnic areas Spotting alligators and birds at Huntington Beach State Park Step away from the buzz of commercial attractions for a glimpse of South Carolina’s breathtaking natural beauty. Both Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer sanctuary for beach families who crave fresh air, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. Stroll scenic trails through maritime forests, stop for a family picnic beneath towering pines, or cast a line from well-maintained fishing piers. Young explorers love joining Jr. Ranger programs and guided nature walks, where expert park staff reveal secrets of the native habitat. At Huntington Beach State Park , keep your eyes peeled for alligators sunning on the banks and dozens of bird species flitting through the marshes. These state parks are peaceful, affordable, and perfect for unplugging from screens and reconnecting with nature. 7. Find Alligators, Ostriches, and More: Brookgreen Gardens and Beyond Discovering Brookgreen Gardens: Art, Animals, and Educational Fun Zoo-like Lowcountry habitats Outdoor sculpture gardens Seasonal family-friendly events No visit to the Myrtle Beach area is complete without a day at Brookgreen Gardens , where art, history, and wildlife discovery go hand-in-hand. Its Lowcountry Zoo features native animals like alligators, foxes, owls, and even playful river otters in habitats that mimic their wild homes. Kid-friendly educational talks and feeding sessions make it a lively and informative destination. Brookgreen’s lush gardens are dotted with world-class sculptures and seasonal blooms, offering pathways for family strolls and spontaneous games of hide and seek. Themed events—like summer Night of a Thousand Candles or fall Harvest Festivals—add extra excitement throughout the year. It’s a place where every member of the family, young and old, learns, laughs, and feels inspired. 8. Experience the Magic of Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach Family Attractions and Shopping at Barefoot Landing Alligator Adventure—‘The Reptile Capitol of the World’ Family-style restaurants with local flavor Live music, arcades, seasonal fireworks Venture slightly north for a uniquely relaxed—but always lively—family experience at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach. Here, lakeside boardwalks wind past charming boutiques and some of the area’s best restaurants, perfect for families seeking good food with a side of adventure. Don’t miss Alligator Adventure , where enormous reptiles, exotic birds, and hands-on animal encounters get kids closer to wildlife than you ever thought possible. Stick around for evening entertainment, with seasonal fireworks that light up the sky and live musicians delivering that unmistakable Myrtle Beach spirit. Barefoot Landing’s arcade and amusement areas ensure kids always have somewhere fun to play, and the laid-back North Myrtle atmosphere keeps stress levels low. Every visit feels fresh and family-focused—this is a top local’s pick! 9. Market Common: Urban Village Fun for Myrtle Beach Families What’s at Market Common for Families with Kids? Shaded playgrounds and splash pads Boutique shopping and kid-friendly dining Movie theater and year-round festivals The Market Common is Myrtle Beach’s modern, walkable urban village. While adults appreciate the open-air shopping and café patios, kids love the shaded playgrounds, splash pads, and green lawns perfect for cartwheels or picnics. Seasonal festivals fill the calendar, from spring art walks to Halloween trick-or-treating, offering family fun for every month of the year. When hunger hits, you’ll find a variety of options ranging from classic burger joints to healthy, kid-friendly eateries. Cap your visit with a trip to the on-site movie theater or hop the free trolley for an easy ride back to your car. Market Common is the perfect blend of big-city energy and Myrtle Beach’s signature beach family charm. 10. Rainy Day Activities: Indoor Amusement Parks and Arcades My Top Picks for Myrtle Beach Family Fun—No Sunshine Needed WonderWorks’ hands-on science fun Fun Warehouse laser tag and go-karts Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Cloudy skies don’t have to mean a dull day in Myrtle Beach. Indoor amusement parks and lively arcades deliver non-stop entertainment for every age. WonderWorks ignites curious minds with out-of-this-world science exhibits and interactive zones—a perfect “edutainment” option for families wanting to learn and play together. Fun Warehouse offers adrenaline-filled laser tag, roller skating, and go-karts, while Ripley’s Believe It or Not! takes you on a journey through the bizarre and amazing. These destinations are more than rain day back-ups—they’re favorite stops for local Myrtle Beach families year-round. Budget tip: Look for combo deals and check websites for special weekday rates or family fun passes. Indoor amusement really is the secret weapon to a perfect vacation, no matter what Mother Nature delivers! Bonus Activities: Unique Experiences Off the Beaten Path Grand Strand bike rides Eco kayak tours for adventurous families Dinosaur and trampoline parks nearby Beyond the headline attractions, Myrtle Beach surprises with outdoor adventures and quirky fun all along the Grand Strand. Rent bikes for a scenic family ride along the oceanfront or test your teamwork with an eco kayak tour through tranquil marshlands, spotting birds, crabs, and even the occasional dolphin. Curious kids will flip for dinosaur adventure parks and trampoline centers just minutes from downtown. Discoveries await around every bend—if you know where to look! People Also Ask: What is the number one thing to do in Myrtle Beach? The iconic Myrtle Beach oceanfront and Boardwalk are often considered the can't-miss destinations for families, featuring sandy beaches, live entertainment, and endless family activities right on the Grand Strand. People Also Ask: What is the cheapest month to go to Myrtle Beach? Typically, the most affordable months for families to visit Myrtle Beach are January, February, and early November, offering lower hotel rates and a quieter experience while still enjoying major attractions. People Also Ask: What areas to stay away from in Myrtle Beach? While most of Myrtle Beach is family-friendly, it’s wise to research current hotel reviews and avoid areas around downtown late at night for optimal family safety. People Also Ask: Is Myrtle Beach or North Myrtle Beach better for families? North Myrtle Beach is known for its more relaxed vibe and less crowded beaches, making it a favorite for many families, while main Myrtle Beach offers more attractions in walking distance. Both cater well to families—your choice depends on whether you want bustling activity or peaceful retreat. FAQ: Your Myrtle Beach Family Vacation Questions Answered How far is Myrtle Beach from major cities? Myrtle Beach is approximately 1.5 hours from Charleston, SC; about 4 hours from Charlotte, NC; and 5 hours from Atlanta, GA—making it an easy and worthwhile road trip for many families. Can you rent beach gear locally? Absolutely! Local beach rental shops provide chairs, umbrellas, carts, boogie boards, and even baby gear. Advance online bookings are recommended during the busy summer season. Where can you find free parking for the best things to do in Myrtle Beach for families with kids? Free public parking is available at many county and state parks, along with select spots at Market Common and The Boardwalk. Check city websites for seasonal restrictions and tips. Take Your Family Vacation to the Next Level in Myrtle Beach "Family vacations at Myrtle Beach combine the best of South Carolina’s coastline with unforgettable adventure, discovery, and local flavor." – Myrtle Beach Family Insider Our Local’s Choice: Top Five Family-Friendly Myrtle Beach Restaurants Sea Captain’s House —oceanfront seafood and kids’ menu Johnny D’s for breakfast classics River City Cafe’s signature burgers LuLu’s at Barefoot Landing —live music and sandy play areas Ultimate California Pizza for pizza lovers Don’t Just Visit — Experience It Like a Local Discover where to go, what to eat, and what’s worth your time in Myrtle Beach and beyond. 🌊 Subscribe to GrandStrandSpotlight.com and explore like a local insider. Key Points for Planning Your Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach for Families with Kids Mix must-see attractions with downtime on the beach Explore both Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach for full family fun Check online for local deals and seasonal festival schedules Choose accommodations with direct access to favorite attractions Plan your Myrtle Beach family adventure with a mix of iconic attractions, nature escapes, savory dining, and local tips to create lifelong memories! Exploring Myrtle Beach with your family offers a plethora of activities that cater to all ages. To enhance your adventure, consider these top attractions: Myrtle Waves Water Park : As South Carolina’s largest water park, Myrtle Waves boasts over 30 exhilarating rides and water slides. Older kids can enjoy the Riptide Rockets and Turbo Twisters, while younger children have fun in the Ocean in Motion Wave Pool and Lazy River. ( travelnoire.com ) WonderWorks Myrtle Beach : This 50,000-square-foot “amusement park for the mind” combines science education with interactive fun. Kids can experience hurricane winds, virtual roller coasters, and even a ropes course, making it an engaging destination for children aged 6 and up. ( familydestinationsguide.com ) Myrtle Beach SkyWheel : For panoramic views of the coastline, the SkyWheel offers a unique experience. Rising to 187 feet, this giant Ferris wheel features 42 climate-controlled gondolas, providing a comfortable ride with stunning vistas. ( en.wikipedia.org ) Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach : Home to over 10,000 exotic sea creatures, Ripley’s Aquarium offers interactive exhibits where kids can touch critters like horseshoe crabs and rays. It’s a fun and educational environment for families. ( holidaypavilionresort.com ) Family Kingdom Amusement Park : This seaside amusement park features nearly 40 rides, including sections just for kids. Admission is free, and you only pay if you ride, making it a flexible option for families. ( coralbeachmyrtlebeachresort.com ) By incorporating these attractions into your itinerary, you’re sure to create lasting memories with your family in Myrtle Beach.