Everything You Need to Know About Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

No trip to the ocean is complete without a visit to the boardwalk, for cotton candy and amusement park rides, hot dogs and haunted houses. And at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk in South Carolina, you can find all the traditional oceanfront fun and games, great restaurants and bars, live music and theater shows, watersports and fishing. To make the most of your time here, we’ve put together this handy guide.

Things to Do on Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Attractions

Along the 1.2 miles of Myrtle Beach Boardwalk there is a world of attractions to entertain you. The Fun Plaza Family Fun Center is full of vintage arcades and modern classics, with games for all ages and lots of prizes to be won. Meanwhile, at Myrtle Beach Thrill Rides, you can brave the exhilarating Sling Shot and The Skyscraper, high above the boardwalk. Or you can experience thrills of a different kind at the Nightmare Haunted House, which takes a boardwalk classic to a whole new level.

Myrtle Beach Skywheel

Since 2011, the Myrtle Beach Skywheel, an observation wheel that was the first of its kind to be built in the US, has dominated the skyline above the boardwalk. Inside one of the 42 climate controlled pods, you’ll be lifted 200 feet up above the ocean and beach for unforgettable views.

Ripley’s Attractions

It wouldn’t be a boardwalk without the classic Ripley’s. Marvel at the wonders of Ripley’s Believe It or Not and take fright at Ripley’s Haunted Adventure. Discover what five dimensions feel like at Ripley’s 5D Moving Theater or see yourself in a whole new way at Ripley’s Mirror Maze.

Watersports & Fishing

From the boardwalk you’ll have easy access to Myrtle Beach itself, with all kinds of watersports on offer. Think jet skiing, parasailing and deep-sea fishing expeditions. Like surfing or kayaking? Well you can rent a surfboard or a kayak. And if all that sounds too energetic, take in a dinner cruise or a spot of gaming out on the open waters with a trip on a casino boat.

Eating & Nightlife

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to restaurants at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Highlights include traditional favorites like Peaches Corner, serving holidaymakers since the 1930s, and the Pier House Restaurant at 2nd Avenue Pier, serving salads, sandwiches, seafood and steaks. Elsewhere, the Bowery is a Myrtle Beach institution. The nightclub and bar has been a hot spot for decades, with live music every night.

Theaters & Shows

Whether you’re interested in a variety show, a magic show or live music, there’s a theater show in Myrtle Beach for you. The Alabama Theatre is known for its Vegas-style ONE show, as well as regular special guests shows. The Carolina Opry combines dancing, singing and comedy, as well as a famous Christmas special (the Christmas Show of the South). And Pure Magic at the Calvin Gilmore Theater is a fun magic and comedy show, popular with families.

Festivals & Events

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk also hosts regular and annual events. This includes the Boardwalk Fright Nights every Halloween and the Carolina Country Music Festival, which brings together famous country music acts from across the South and beyond. Each year the summer season begins with the Sun Fun Festival. Expect live shows with free games, activities and a Saturday night fireworks display.

FAQs about Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

How do I get to Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is in downtown Myrtle Beach, on U.S. Route 17 between Charleston, SC, and Wilmington, NC. Major airlines that fly to Myrtle Beach International Airport include American, Delta, United and WestJet.

Is there parking at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

There are numerous pay-to-park lots close to the boardwalk. Expect to pay between $5 and $10 per day.

Is there shopping at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

There are all kinds of stores along Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, from surf shacks to beach shops. For a classic seafront souvenir, don’t miss the amazing selection at Gay Dolphin Gifts. It’s a Myrtle Beach Boardwalk attraction in its own right. Anyone with a sweet-tooth should head to I Love Sugar for all kinds of candy-based treats.

What are the opening hours for shopping on Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

Most shops along the boardwalk are open seven days a week, from 10am until late into the evening.

Where can I stay at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

There are numerous hotels at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, many of which are right on the oceanfront. Holiday Sands North On The Boardwalk has an indoor and outdoor pool with two-bedroom suites for families, while the South Bay Inn & Suites has rooms with ocean views, a complimentary waterpark, spa tubs and fitness center. Meanwhile, the Holiday Inn At the Pavilion is also on the boardwalk, next to the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, with a pool and free parking. Another popular choice is to rent a beach house, a condo or a vacation rental in Myrtle Beach.

Are there free things to do at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

There are lots of free things to do at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, not least the beach itself! Soak up some rays on the sands or take the plunge into the ocean. Along the boardwalk itself you’ll see jugglers and other street performers, live music and other events taking place throughout the year that you can join in for free.

Many bars along the boardwalk have regular live music events that will cost nothing more than the price of a drink. Not far from the boardwalk, The Broadway at the Beach outdoor shopping and entertainment complex has lots of shows and family attractions, plus free fireworks displays on Tuesdays and Fridays in the summer.

Do I need a fishing license to fish in Myrtle Beach?

You can fish without a license from some of the piers along the boardwalk, although you might need to purchase a pass. Likewise, on for-hire tours and trips you can also fish without a license. For fishing from shore, you’ll need to purchase an annual or four-day saltwater fishing license. You can do this online here.