Myrtle Beach is an excellent family vacation destination with a wide variety of activities for children and parents alike. After a recent visit with my family, I discovered several affordable, fun options that worked well for a range of ages. Below are ten top things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids, chosen for accessibility, entertainment value, and family-friendly appeal.
1. Miniature Golf – Myrtle Beach is famous for its many miniature golf courses. These themed courses are great for families and offer a mix of easy holes for little ones and trickier shots for older players. Popular choices include Jurassic Golf and Dragon’s Lair, both of which provide colorful, kid-friendly challenges and photo opportunities.
2. Banana Boat Rides – Banana boat tours are a lively, family-oriented watersport that deliver a short, exciting ride along the coastline. Many local operators offer banana boat rides alongside jet skis and parasailing. These trips typically last 10–15 minutes and cover a stretch of shoreline — expect to get wet and bring a sense of adventure.
3. Beach Time – No trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without spending time on its long sandy shoreline. The area stretches for miles, offering plenty of space to swim, collect shells and fossils, build sandcastles, or take a peaceful walk. After dark, flashlight-led crab hunts make for a memorable family activity.
4. SkyWheel – The SkyWheel is a towering Ferris wheel along the Boardwalk that provides striking views of the ocean and city. Each enclosed, air-conditioned gondola makes the ride comfortable even on hot days, and it’s a great way to capture scenic family photos from high above the beach.
5. Ripley’s Attractions – Ripley’s offers multiple attractions suitable for different ages, including an aquarium, Believe It or Not! museum, Haunted Adventure, a mirror maze, and a 3D moving theater. The aquarium is especially well-suited to younger kids, featuring touch pools, jellyfish exhibits, and live mermaid shows.
6. Myrtle Beach Zipline Adventures – For families seeking thrills, zipline parks provide an adrenaline boost with courses designed for children and adults. Many zipline operations welcome kids as young as six and include tandem or group lines so families can ride together. Speeds and heights vary, so choose a course that matches your comfort level.
7. Alligator Adventure – Located near Barefoot Landing, Alligator Adventure is a large reptile park showcasing hundreds of alligators and crocodiles along with other reptiles and animal exhibits. The park features live demonstrations and feeding sessions that fascinate kids who love wildlife and want to learn more about these powerful animals.
8. Thunder & Light Show – Family-friendly stage shows combine dance, lasers, and illusion to entertain audiences of all ages. These productions often include energetic performances and visual effects that hold children’s attention while providing a lively night out for the whole family.
9. Myrtle Beach Art Museum – Admission to the art museum is often free, and the exhibits include regional visual art and collections that showcase Southern artists. It’s an accessible cultural stop where children can explore different art styles and learn through hands-on or family-focused programming when available.
10. Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville – This restaurant offers a tropical, upbeat atmosphere that’s welcoming to families. Along with a menu that ranges from seafood to burgers and a dedicated kids’ menu, the venue typically features lively music, fun décor, and occasional performers who entertain children with balloons and stilt-walking.
If you’re planning where to stay, there are family-friendly hotels and resorts across Myrtle Beach. Choosing accommodations close to the Boardwalk or Barefoot Landing can cut travel time between attractions and make it easier to return to your room for breaks during busy days.