What Is at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Attractions & Dining Guide

If you’re planning a trip to South Carolina’s coast, you’ll want to explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. This lively oceanfront promenade stretches over a mile along the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a hub of activity where you can enjoy stunning ocean views, fun attractions, and tasty food. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, the boardwalk offers something for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what you can find at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. From popular rides and live entertainment to great places to eat and nearby hotels, you’ll get a clear picture of how to make the most of your visit. Let’s dive into the best spots and experiences waiting for you at this vibrant seaside destination.

Overview of Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk runs about 1.2 miles along Ocean Boulevard. It was built to give visitors easy access to the beach and local attractions. The boardwalk is wide and well-maintained, making it perfect for walking, biking, or just relaxing by the ocean.

Here’s what makes the boardwalk special:

• Beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and sandy beaches

• Access to public beaches with lifeguards and amenities

• Numerous shops, restaurants, and bars along the way

• Family-friendly attractions and entertainment

• Regular events and festivals throughout the year

The boardwalk is busiest during the summer months but remains a popular spot year-round. It’s a great place to start your day with a sunrise walk or end it with a sunset dinner by the water.

Top Attractions on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The boardwalk area is packed with fun things to do. You won’t run out of entertainment options whether you’re with kids or friends.

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

The SkyWheel is the boardwalk’s most famous attraction. This giant Ferris wheel stands 187 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the ocean and city skyline. Each enclosed gondola is climate-controlled, so you can enjoy the ride comfortably any time of year.

• Open daily with extended hours in summer

• Tickets available online or at the entrance

• Great photo opportunities from the top

Family Kingdom Amusement Park

Just a short walk from the boardwalk, Family Kingdom is a classic seaside amusement park. It features over 30 rides, including roller coasters, a log flume, and a carousel. It’s perfect for families looking for a fun day out near the beach.

• Affordable admission with pay-per-ride options

• Arcade games and food stands on site

• Seasonal events like fireworks and live shows

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

If you enjoy quirky museums, Ripley’s Odditorium is a must-see. It’s filled with strange artifacts, interactive exhibits, and oddities from around the world. It’s located right on the boardwalk, making it easy to visit between beach walks.

• Open daily with family-friendly exhibits

• Combo tickets available with other Ripley’s attractions

• Fun for all ages with hands-on displays

Boardwalk Entertainment Complex

The Boardwalk Entertainment Complex is a lively area with bars, live music, and dance clubs. It’s popular in the evenings for nightlife and socializing. You’ll find places to enjoy craft cocktails, local beers, and beach-themed music.

• Live bands and DJs on weekends

• Outdoor seating with ocean views

• Casual dress code and friendly atmosphere

Dining Options Along the Boardwalk

When hunger strikes, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk has plenty of choices. You can find everything from quick snacks to sit-down seafood dinners.

Seafood Restaurants

Fresh seafood is a highlight here. Many restaurants serve local catches like shrimp, flounder, and crab. Popular spots include:

• Sea Captain’s House: A historic oceanfront restaurant known for its shrimp and grits.

• Oceanfront Bar & Grill: Casual dining with great views and daily specials.

• Mr. Fish Seafood Market & Grill: Fresh fish dishes and sushi near the boardwalk.

Casual Eateries and Snacks

If you want something quick or kid-friendly, try these options:

• Boardwalk Fries: Famous for their crispy fries and dipping sauces.

• Hot Dog Hut: Classic beach hot dogs and soft drinks.

• Ben & Jerry’s: Ice cream shop perfect for a sweet treat on a warm day.

Bars and Nightlife

For adults, the boardwalk offers lively bars with ocean views. Some favorites are:

• Duck’s Beach Club: Popular for live music and cocktails.

• Broadway Louie’s: Known for its rooftop bar and party atmosphere.

• Landshark Bar & Grill: Casual spot with tropical drinks and beach vibes.

Hotels Near Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

Staying close to the boardwalk means you can enjoy the beach and attractions easily. Here are some top hotel options:

Oceanfront Hotels

These hotels put you steps from the sand and boardwalk:

• Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: Luxury resort with pools, golf, and marina access.

• Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: Family-friendly with water slides and ocean views.

• Avista Resort: Modern suites with balconies overlooking the beach.

Budget-Friendly Stays

If you want to save on lodging, try these:

• Bay View Resort: Affordable rooms near the boardwalk with pools and kitchenettes.

• La Quinta Inn & Suites: Reliable chain hotel with free breakfast and parking.

• Days Inn by Wyndham Myrtle Beach: Basic amenities and close to boardwalk access.

Vacation Rentals

For longer stays or groups, vacation rentals offer space and comfort:

• Oceanfront condos with full kitchens and balconies

• Beach houses within walking distance of the boardwalk

• Options available through Airbnb and Vrbo

Events and Festivals at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The boardwalk hosts many events throughout the year. These bring extra fun and excitement to your visit.

• Myrtle Beach Bike Week: A popular spring event with motorcycle shows and concerts.

• Sun Fun Festival: A summer celebration with live music, food vendors, and beach games.

• Holiday Lights & Fireworks: Winter events featuring festive decorations and fireworks displays.

• Boardwalk Art Show: Local artists display and sell their work in the fall.

Check the Myrtle Beach tourism website before your trip to see what’s happening during your stay.

Tips for Visiting Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

To have the best experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking the boardwalk and beach.

• Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially in summer.

• Use public parking lots near the boardwalk to save time.

• Check event schedules to catch live shows or festivals.

• Book popular attractions like the SkyWheel online to skip lines.

Getting Around the Boardwalk Area

The boardwalk is easy to explore on foot, but there are other ways to get around:

• Biking: Rent bikes nearby to cover more ground quickly.

• Trolley Service: The Myrtle Beach trolley stops near the boardwalk and connects to other city areas.

• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available for quick trips to hotels or restaurants.

• Parking: Several public lots and garages are close to the boardwalk, but they fill up fast in summer.

Conclusion

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a lively and welcoming place for visitors of all ages. It offers a mix of ocean views, fun attractions, tasty food, and comfortable hotels. Whether you want a relaxing beach day or an action-packed outing, the boardwalk has it all.

By planning ahead and exploring the many options here, you can create a memorable coastal vacation. From riding the SkyWheel to enjoying fresh seafood or catching a live show, the boardwalk is the heart of Myrtle Beach’s oceanfront fun. I hope this guide helps you discover everything you need for a great visit.

FAQs

What are the main attractions at Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

The main attractions include the SkyWheel, Family Kingdom Amusement Park nearby, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, and various live entertainment venues along the boardwalk.

Are there family-friendly activities on the boardwalk?

Yes, the boardwalk offers many family-friendly activities like amusement rides, arcades, beach access, and interactive museums suitable for kids and adults alike.

Where can I find good seafood near the boardwalk?

Popular seafood restaurants near the boardwalk include Sea Captain’s House, Oceanfront Bar & Grill, and Mr. Fish Seafood Market & Grill, all serving fresh local catches.

Is parking available near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?

Yes, there are several public parking lots and garages near the boardwalk. It’s best to arrive early in busy seasons to find a spot easily.

Can I rent bikes to explore the boardwalk area?

Absolutely. There are bike rental shops near the boardwalk, making it easy to explore the area on two wheels and cover more ground.