North Myrtle Beach is more than just a stretch of sand—it’s a destination packed with adventure, entertainment, and coastal charm. It has a more local feel than its famous sibling to the south, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t just as much fun to be had.
It’s more than mini golf and the bright lights of Ocean Boulevard. From lively oceanfront attractions and fresh local seafood to championship golf courses and family-friendly activities, there’s something here for everyone. Book your stay with Together Resorts & Vacation Rentals, and read on for our top North Myrtle Beach attractions. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full vacation, these are the 12 best things to do in North Myrtle Beach that will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Explore Barefoot Landing
A live entertainment extravaganza, Barefoot Landing relocates some of the family fun and atmosphere of the Myrtle Beach area north along the Grand Strand. Located on the Intracoastal Waterway, visitors will find a collection of premier shopping, dining, and festivities.Come in the morning, enjoy some retail therapy, and work up an appetite before stopping by the Flying Fish Market. Or arrive in the evening when the lights shine under the South Carolina sky, and the live music tunes flow from the House of Blues. You can also check out Lulu’s Arcade & Mountain of Youth Ropes Course, a memorable, family-friendly amusement park with entertainment for the whole family.
2. Explore North Myrtle Beach’s Shoreline Gems
North Myrtle Beach may be part of the famous 60-mile Grand Strand, but it boasts its own collection of laid-back, family-friendly, and picture-perfect beaches that locals love. Each stretch of sand has its own personality—whether you’re looking for a quiet escape, a lively family spot, or a fisherman’s paradise, you’ll find it here.
Beaches in North Myrtle Beach worth visiting:
- Cherry Grove Beach – A favorite among locals for its relaxed vibe and the iconic Cherry Grove Pier. It’s a hotspot for fishing, sunrise strolls, and, at low tide, a hidden adventure to nearby Waties Island.
- Ocean Drive Beach – Known as the birthplace of the Carolina Shag dance, this lively beach blends surfside fun with classic boardwalk charm. Perfect for families, with playgrounds, ice cream shops, and plenty of space for beach games.
- Crescent Beach – Quieter than Ocean Drive, Crescent Beach offers wide sandy stretches ideal for long walks, kite flying, or simply unwinding with a good book. Locals head here for a more laid-back beach day.
Windy Hill Beach – True to its name, this breezy spot is great for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. It’s also close to Barefoot Landing, making it easy to pair a beach day with shopping and dining.
Tilghman Beach – Tucked away from the bustle, Tilghman has a residential feel and a slower pace. Locals recommend it for a peaceful sunset picnic or a quiet morning jog along the shore.
3. Go Horseback Riding
There’s nothing quite like slowly exploring the gorgeous South Carolina coastline on horseback. Add a splash of adventure to your North Myrtle Beach vacation with a horseback ride with the local tour guides at Inlet Point Plantation.
The family-friendly activity is with a locally-owned outfitter that will have you prepped to trot through pecan groves and splash through the shallow surf. You’ll feel at peace among the beautiful Waties Island scenery with your knowledgeable guides leading the way through 1,000 acres of diverse ecosystems where loggerhead turtles and bottlenose dolphins linger.
4. Kayak, Paddleboard, Surf & Parasail the Waters
Sure, lounging on the sand has its charm—but North Myrtle Beach also invites you to dive into adventure. From calm waterways to rolling Atlantic waves, there’s no shortage of ways to get moving on the water.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): The gentle waters around Little River are ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful paddle. It’s a scenic spot to build confidence or get back into the rhythm if it’s been a while since your last ride.
- Kayaking: Grab a sea kayak and explore North Myrtle Beach’s shoreline from a new perspective. Paddle along Crescent Beach or venture into hidden marshes and tidal creeks where you might spot dolphins, herons, and other coastal wildlife.
- Surfing: For wave-chasers, the area around Cherry Grove Pier delivers consistent surf year-round. Beginners don’t have to feel left out—local favorites like Kokopelli Surf Camp offer lessons, gear rentals, and friendly instructors to get you standing on your board in no time.
Parasailing: If you’re craving thrills and panoramic views, parasailing over the Atlantic is a must. Soar high above the shoreline, catch a bird’s-eye view of the beaches, and—if you’re lucky—spot dolphins swimming below. It’s a bucket-list adventure that combines adrenaline with breathtaking scenery.
5. Experience the Energy of Main Street
Main Street runs through the center of North Myrtle Beach. Not only do our vacation rentals place you close to some excellent local boutiques and seafood dining, but there’s always something going on along Main Street.
This main boulevard is the beating heart of North Myrtle Beach—a lively stretch where shopping, dining, and nightlife all collide in one unforgettable scene. By day, it’s a charming spot to browse boutique shops or grab fresh seafood at a family-owned restaurant. As the sun sets, the street transforms into a hub of energy with music, lights, and the buzz of people soaking in the coastal vibe.
One of the highlights is Music on Main, a beloved summer-to-fall tradition. Each week, Main Street closes to traffic and opens to pedestrians who wander between live bands, food trucks, local artisans, and street performers. The atmosphere is festive and laid-back at the same time, making it the perfect evening for families, couples, and groups of friends. When the concerts wind down, the fun doesn’t stop—many visitors spill into local bars and clubs, where the party continues late into the night.
Main Street isn’t just a road—it’s an experience that captures the spirit of North Myrtle Beach.
6. Dine on Seafood
Speaking of seafood, North Myrtle Beach knows only the freshest catch. Straight out of the Atlantic and prepped by talented chefs, those who love boil pots, crab legs, raw bars, and seafood steam kettles will be eating like kings and queens.
Being steps from the ocean, it is no surprise that NMB has a long list of excellent seafood restaurants. Thankfully, time and a sense of adventure have allowed us to get to know the bulk of them.
Some of our favorite North Myrtle Beach seafood restaurants include:
7. Catch a Sunrise at Murrells Inlet or Cherry Grove
Vacation may be for catching up on some much-needed R&R, but if you are an early bird, you’ll be rewarded with one of our coastal town’s famous sunrises. Looking east, North Myrtle Beach offers some magical sunrise spots that will kickstart your day in the most epic way.
Places such as Murrells Inlet offer a serene nature that combines effortlessly with the glowing colors on the horizon. Heading to Cherry Grove Pier allows you to feel the ocean breeze as the sun lights up the world. Brookgreen Gardens tops it off with a mix of art, culture, and manicured landscapes as orange floods the sky.
8. Tee Off
The beaches along the Grand Strand and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk may earn the bulk of travelers’ attention. However, for the golfers among us, North Myrtle Beach has a wonderful collection of courses (and mini golf courses the entire family can enjoy).
These challenging, award-winning courses elevated their majestic surroundings. As you make your way through the front and back nines, you’ll be maneuvering alongside the salt marshes of the Intracoastal Waterway. Here, the good views help you move on from chunking your seven iron.
Our top North Myrtle Beach golf courses:
9. Take a Dolphin Cruise
In the morning hours, bottlenose dolphins bob up to the surface before diving into the Atlantic. Their rollercoaster journeys are incredible to watch. In North Myrtle Beach, there are ample opportunities to get out on the water and see them up close. Southern Shores Island & Dolphin Cruises offers an alternative to the regular cruise boat. You can trade that in for a relaxing 2-hour catamaran charter. Along the way, you’ll stop at unspoiled barrier islands where untouched sands await.
10. Enjoy a Swashbuckling Night at Pirates Voyage
Traveling with young kids? Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is a high-energy, family-friendly experience that blends dining with entertainment. Watch acrobatic pirates swing from ship masts, cheer on daring sword fights, and marvel at special effects—all while enjoying a hearty, pirate-themed meal. It’s an unforgettable evening that keeps little ones entertained and gives adults a taste of adventure, making it a perfect alternative to a traditional night out.
11. Spend the Day at Shark Wake Park
Sometimes, the dance between sunbathing and swimming needs to be spiced up! To add more adrenaline to your day on the water, pay a visit to Shark Wake Park. The North Myrtle Beach sports complex is a thrilling collection of floating obstacles, climbing towers, and slides. But that’s not all.
Once you’ve conquered the course, try your hand at wakeboarding, knee-boarding, water skiing, and more at their state-of-the-art wake park.
12. Experience The Alabama Theatre
Once you’ve ticked Barefoot Landing off the list, it’s likely you’ll have seen The Alabama Theatre. But it’s worth finding a few hours in your packed itinerary to enjoy a show.
The iconic local venue has been entertaining since 1993 with spectacular variety shows. Come and experience their all-star cast with comedy, live music & fun choreography. On their nights off, the show continues with amazing tribute acts. If you can’t get enough, be sure to check out the Carolina Opry Theatre.
13. Wander Brookgreen Gardens
Although a little out of town, no trip to North Myrtle Beach would be complete without exploring the Brookgreen Gardens. Just a short drive out of town, this special place is everything you would hope it would be. There are stunning gardens, awe-inspiring art, plenty of interesting history, and even the Low Country Zoo.
The 9,127-acre property on the Hammock Coast is a floral jewel. The botanical area features a mesmerizing Butterfly Garden, 250-year-old live oaks, and the Palmetto Garden.
The American Sculpture Garden is the most comprehensive garden of its kind in the country and stands alongside a trio of galleries. To complete the experience, discover native wildlife at the garden’s zoo!
Experience the Best of North Myrtle Beach
There is never a dull day in North Myrtle Beach. From catching the sunrise at Cherry Grove to dancing to the tunes at The Alabama Theatre, each day will be full of fun, family-friendly adventures.
Spring, summer, fall, or winter, there’s never a bad time to visit and enjoy our private luxury retreats. Book your Together Resorts stay today and start planning your trip!