Is Myrtle Beach Boardwalk in North Myrtle Beach?

If you are planning a trip to South Carolina’s coast, you might wonder if the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is located in North Myrtle Beach. Both towns offer beautiful beaches and fun activities, but they are distinct places. Knowing where the boardwalk is will help you plan your stay and explore the best spots.

In this article, I will explain where the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is, how it differs from North Myrtle Beach, and what you can expect in both towns. You will also find tips on where to stay, eat, and enjoy local attractions. Let’s clear up the confusion and help you enjoy your beach vacation with confidence.

Where Is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Located?

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is located in the city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It stretches along the downtown Myrtle Beach oceanfront, running about 1.2 miles from the 2nd Avenue Pier to the 14th Avenue Pier. This lively boardwalk is a hub of activity, with shops, restaurants, arcades, and entertainment venues lining the ocean.

Here are some key points about the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk:

• It is in the heart of Myrtle Beach, not North Myrtle Beach.

• The boardwalk offers ocean views, live music, and family-friendly events.

• Popular landmarks include the SkyWheel, a large Ferris wheel with ocean views.

• The area is walkable and close to many hotels and resorts.

So, if you want to visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, you will need to go to Myrtle Beach itself, not North Myrtle Beach.

How Is North Myrtle Beach Different from Myrtle Beach?

North Myrtle Beach is a separate city located about 15 miles north of Myrtle Beach. It has its own charm and attractions but does not have the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Instead, North Myrtle Beach offers a quieter, more relaxed beach experience.

Here are some highlights of North Myrtle Beach:

• It features several smaller beach access points and piers, such as the Cherry Grove Pier and the Main Street Pier.

• The area is known for its golf courses, local seafood restaurants, and family-friendly atmosphere.

• North Myrtle Beach hosts events like the Carolina Country Music Fest and the Blue Crab Festival.

• It has a different vibe, often less crowded than Myrtle Beach.

While North Myrtle Beach does not have the same boardwalk, it offers plenty of other ways to enjoy the coast.

Best Places to Stay Near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

If you want to be close to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, staying in downtown Myrtle Beach is your best bet. You will be near the action, with easy access to the beach, restaurants, and nightlife.

Consider these hotels and resorts near the boardwalk:

• Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: A family-friendly resort with pools, beach access, and ocean views just steps from the boardwalk.

• Avista Resort: Offers suites with kitchens and balconies, plus a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean.

• Springmaid Beach Resort: Known for its large pool complex and beachfront location near the boardwalk.

• Holiday Inn & Suites Myrtle Beach: A reliable chain hotel with oceanfront rooms and easy boardwalk access.

Booking early is recommended, especially in summer, as these hotels fill up fast.

Where to Stay in North Myrtle Beach

If you prefer a quieter stay or want to explore North Myrtle Beach, there are many good hotel options. These places offer easy beach access and a more laid-back atmosphere.

Popular accommodations in North Myrtle Beach include:

• North Beach Resort & Villas: Oceanfront condos with pools and family-friendly amenities.

• Avista Resort North Myrtle Beach: Similar to its Myrtle Beach counterpart, with suites and ocean views.

• Sea Watch Resort: A large resort with multiple pools, tennis courts, and a private beach.

• Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort: Affordable oceanfront hotel with simple rooms and beach access.

North Myrtle Beach hotels often offer a more relaxed pace and are great for families or couples looking to avoid crowds.

Things to Do on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is packed with fun activities and attractions. Here are some highlights you can enjoy:

• SkyWheel: Ride this 187-foot Ferris wheel for stunning views of the ocean and city.

• Arcades and Games: Play classic and modern arcade games at places like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and Fun Plaza.

• Dining: Try seafood and casual eats at restaurants like Sea Captain’s House or LandShark Bar & Grill.

• Live Music and Events: The boardwalk hosts concerts, festivals, and fireworks during the summer.

• Shopping: Browse souvenir shops, boutiques, and local art galleries.

Walking the boardwalk day or night is a great way to soak up the beach town vibe.

Top Attractions in North Myrtle Beach

While North Myrtle Beach does not have the famous boardwalk, it offers many other attractions worth visiting:

• Cherry Grove Pier: A popular fishing pier with a snack bar and beautiful views.

• Alligator Adventure: A large reptile park featuring alligators, crocodiles, and exotic animals.

• Golf Courses: North Myrtle Beach is known for its many golf courses, like Barefoot Resort and Tidewater Golf Club.

• Local Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood at spots like Sea Blue or The Wicked Tuna.

• Outdoor Activities: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and bike rentals are popular ways to explore the area.

These attractions offer a different but equally enjoyable beach experience.

How to Travel Between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach

Traveling between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach is easy and quick. The two cities are about 15 miles apart, connected mainly by U.S. Highway 17.

Here are travel tips:

• By Car: Driving takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Renting a car is the most flexible option.

• Public Transport: The Coast RTA bus system connects the two cities with regular routes.

• Taxi or Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate in the area and can take you between the two towns.

• Biking: For the adventurous, some parts of the route are bike-friendly but it’s a longer trip.

Plan your transportation based on your itinerary and preferences.

Tips for Visiting Both Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach

To get the best of both worlds, consider splitting your stay between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. Here are some tips:

• Book accommodations in each city for a few nights to explore their unique attractions.

• Use a rental car to move easily between the two towns.

• Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for nightlife and entertainment.

• Spend a day in North Myrtle Beach for a quieter beach and local dining.

• Check event calendars for festivals and concerts in both locations.

This approach lets you enjoy lively boardwalk fun and peaceful beach time.

Conclusion

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is located in Myrtle Beach, not North Myrtle Beach. Both cities offer beautiful beaches and plenty to do, but the famous boardwalk with its shops, rides, and entertainment is a Myrtle Beach highlight.

If you want to experience the boardwalk, plan to stay in or near downtown Myrtle Beach. For a quieter, family-friendly beach trip, North Myrtle Beach is a great choice. Traveling between the two is easy, so you can enjoy the best of both during your visit to South Carolina’s coast.

FAQs

Is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk the same as the North Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

No, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is in Myrtle Beach. North Myrtle Beach does not have a boardwalk but has piers and beach access points.

How far is North Myrtle Beach from the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

North Myrtle Beach is about 15 miles north of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, roughly a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic.

Can I walk from North Myrtle Beach to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

Walking is not practical due to the distance and busy roads. Driving or taking a bus or rideshare is recommended.

What are the best hotels near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

Top hotels include Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort, Avista Resort, Springmaid Beach Resort, and Holiday Inn & Suites Myrtle Beach.

Are there family activities on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

Yes, the boardwalk offers arcades, the SkyWheel, live music, festivals, and many kid-friendly restaurants and shops.