Myrtle Beach has everything a vacation-goer desires.
From high-end restaurants to its glorious coastline, it’s a city with never-ending possibilities for fun.
Even so, we still encourage visitors to go beyond its borders and see the beauty of South Carolina from a different perspective.
With an array of captivating wonders, exploring the surrounding towns will definitely spice up your vacation.
So, take a look at our picks for the best things to do near Myrtle Beach.
1. Huntington Beach State Park
16148 Ocean Hwy
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 237-4440
No trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a visit to Huntington Beach State Park.
Famous for its untouched wilderness and scenery, it’s, to me, the most gorgeous wildlife and wetland preserve in the Grand Strand.
Why we recommend going here
The park’s marine forest, beach, saltmarsh and freshwater lagoon make it a thriving and unique natural environment.
And, for a fun pit-stop, I suggest that you take a Huntington Beach State Park segway tour.
Not only is it an exciting tour, but it also gives you scenic views of the ocean and marsh.
Furthermore, it lets you spot a variety of animals, including loggerhead turtles, minks and alligators peacefully basking in the sun.
We also love the savvy guides of this tour, with their vast knowledge of the park.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
Huntington Beach State Park is 19.6 miles away from Myrtle Beach.
On average, it takes around 25 minutes to reach this state park from your Myrtle Beach hotel or resort.
Also, some of the best Myrtle Beach resorts for families offer shuttle services and tours to this state park.
Recommended Hotel Near Huntington Beach State Park: The Inlet Sports Lodge
2. Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens
1235 Long Point Rd
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
(843) 884-4371
Looking for historical places to see near Myrtle Beach?
Why not pay a visit to Boone Hall Plantation?
While it was founded in 1681, this plantation still continues to grow crops today.
Additionally, this hidden gem houses displays that give you a sneak peek into the antebellum days of South Carolina.
Why we recommend going here
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this antebellum era plantation is a paradise for history buffs.
Here, you’ll see tons of exhibits highlighting the culture and history of antebellum South.
What’s more, it’s loaded with sights that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a bygone era.
The Avenue of Oaks, for instance, will make your skin crawl and take you to the old antebellum South.
While there, don’t forget to check out the Gullah presentation, which is a superb combination of musical talent and interesting info.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
The fastest driving route to the plantation from Myrtle Beach is via US-17 US.
It’s around 89 miles and will likely take around 1 hour and 47 minutes.
Recommended Hotel Near Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens: Hotel Bennett Charleston
Related: Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
3. Conway Riverwalk
2nd Ave
Conway, SC 29526
(843) 248-1760
Although not a well-known attraction, Conway Riverwalk is, to me, one of the top things to do and see near Myrtle Beach.
With its serene ambiance and scenic views, it’s a great spot if you need to unwind and relax.
As a bonus, it offers a bunch of free and cheap activities for everyone.
Why we recommend going here
Nature lovers will find their bliss as they stroll along the well-known Waccamaw River on this walkway.
With this relaxing walk, you’ll spot a historic inn, a playground, marinas and picture-perfect rustic bridges.
Alternatively, you may enjoy a picnic at any of the lush and shaded areas of the Conway Riverwalk.
If you have kids, allow them to experience the admission-free swings and outdoor recreation spots of the area.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
Conway Riverwalk is 14 miles away from Myrtle Beach.
With a private car, it will only take 19 minutes from Myrtle Beach to the riverwalk via US-501 N.
Alternatively, there are scheduled bus trips from Myrtle Beach to Conway Terminal – the closest bus stop to the riverwalk.
The bus ride usually takes an hour.
Recommended Hotel Near Conway Riverwalk: The Strand – A Boutique Resort
Related: Fun Things to Do in Myrtle Beach with Kids
4. River Island Adventures
1249 Vera Rd
Longs, SC 29568
(843) 882-7487
Want to add some outdoor fun to your trip in Myrtle Beach with kids?
Here’s my word of advice for you: drop by River Island Adventures in North Myrtle Beach.
With a variety of outdoor attractions, River Island is truly an extraordinary family-friendly spot in the area.
Why we recommend going here
River Island, with acres of recreational areas, offers a heap of exciting outdoorsy things to do near Myrtle Beach, SC.
Some of our recommended activities here include river inner tubing, boat tours, kayaking and the thrilling Escape River Island challenge.
River Island also has picnic tables, a large fire pit, yard games and tree swings.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
To get to River Island Adventures, hit Water Tower Road from Myrtle Beach.
The trip is 18.6 miles long and takes about 28 minutes of driving.
Recommended Hotel Near River Island Adventures: SOUTH BAY INN & SUITES
5. Brookgreen Gardens
1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
(843) 235-6000
Brookgreen Gardens are, no doubt, one of our favorite attractions near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
From charming animals to eye-catching sculptures, this family-friendly attraction has a host of sights and activities to offer to everyone.
Why we recommend going here
Brookgreen is an internationally renowned garden.
A beautiful mash-up of nature, history and art, this refreshing oasis also teems with attractions for the entire family.
Our favorites here include the Enchanted Storybook Forest, local zoo and sculpture garden.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
Brookgreen is a 26-minute drive from Myrtle Beach via US-17 S, with a total distance of 20 miles.
Recommended Hotel Near Brookgreen Gardens: Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort
Related: Best Beaches Near Myrtle Beach, SC
6. Charleston Carriage Tour
Charleston, SC 29403
A great way to see the grandeur of Charleston is to take a carriage tour.
Covering over 2.5 miles, the tour lets you see tons of charming mansions, gardens and churches on a horse-drawn carriage.
Why we recommend going here
We have so many pleasant memories of this sightseeing tour.
From antebellum homes to picture-perfect gardens, the tour overflows with eye-catching sights.
The tour also has a knowledge guide that highlights the city’s colonial beginnings and interesting history.
My favorite landmark on this tour is the Governor William Aiken House, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
Charleston is 2 hours away, with a distance of 98.6 miles, from Myrtle Beach via US-17 S.
Recommended Hotel Near Charleston: The Dewberry Charleston
7. Rice Museum
633 Front St
Georgetown, SC 29440
(843) 546-7423
Rice Museum is one of the cool places to go near the city when you need to get your fix for history.
Managed by the local history society, this treasure trove narrates the crucial role of the county in rice production during its heyday.
Why we recommend going here
Learn Georgetown County’s rice cultivation history through its permanent collection of exhibits.
Wander around the museum and discover dozens of artifacts, paintings, maps and dioramas of South Carolina’s rice-growing industry.
While it’s not interactive or high-tech, it has knowledgeable guides who can give you a clear picture of the county’s rice plantations.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
Rice Museum is 37 miles away and a 47-minute drive from Myrtle Beach.
There are buses to the museum from the city as well.
We don’t recommend it, however, since it has a travel time of more than 2 hours.
Recommended Hotel Near Rice Museum: Hyatt Place Charleston – Historic District
8. Sunset Beach Park
206 Sunset Blvd N
Sunset Beach, NC 28468
Yearning for a serene escape from all the non-stop fun with toddlers in Myrtle Beach?
Searching for romantic places to visit near the city?
Then, head to Sunset Beach Park, and relax as you soak up the easygoing feel.
Truthfully, it’s not as famous as the Grand Strand.
Nevertheless, it’s a great alternative for those who are looking for a more tranquil getaway.
Why we recommend going here
With striking ocean views and photogenic oak trees, the park is filled with natural beauty.
You may also fill your vacation hours fishing at the pier or taking a leisurely stroll on one of its trails.
For a fun visit, take an informative walking tour of the gorgeous Sunset Beach Pier.
Afterward, do a little shopping at the Sunset Beach Waterfront Market.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
Sunset Beach Park is just 44 minutes away (29.2 miles) from Myrtle Beach via US-17 BUS N.
Recommended Hotel Near Sunset Beach Park: Club Wyndham Towers on the Grove
9. South Carolina Maritime Museum
729 Front St
Georgetown, SC 29440
(843) 520-0111
There’s no attraction in SC state that’s as unique as the South Carolina Maritime Museum.
After all, it’s the only museum in the region that showcases the maritime heritage of South Carolina.
Why we recommend going here
The museum provides an interesting insight into the significance of South Carolina’s fishing and shipping industry.
Inside the museum, you’ll see a variety of documents, photos and artifacts related to the area’s maritime history.
And, guess what?
There are plenty of noteworthy exhibits here, including ship parts, old scuba diving equipment and a well-known Fresnel lens.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
The fastest route to the museum is via US Highway 17 Bypass S and US-17 S.
The drive will take 46 minutes and is 37.2 miles long.
Recommended Hotel Near South Carolina Maritime Museum: Belmond Charleston Place
10. Downtown Charleston Food Tour
Charleston, SC 29403
The Downtown Charleston food tour is a one-of-a-kind experience that should be on your travel itinerary.
Even if you’re not a foodie, this tour can still be rather satisfying.
Why we recommend going here
There’s more to this culinary tour than food tasting and delectable goodies.
In my book, it’s a culinary adventure with a dash of history.
With a cunning and well-versed guide, the tour also lets you explore the old and historic district of Charleston.
In fact, the guides will share nuggets of information about the history of the buildings, the culture of the city as well as its titillating cuisine.
Of course, you’ll be stopping by a few tempting restaurants, like Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe, Hot Little Biscuits, Poogans Smokehouse and Hooked Seafood.
Distance from Myrtle Beach
It’s a 2-hour drive from Myrtle Beach to downtown Charleston.
Depending on the route you take, the trip will cover around 98.6 to 112.2 miles.
Recommended Hotel Near Downtown Charleston: The Spectator Hotel
10 Best Things to Do Near Myrtle Beach for 2024
- Huntington Beach State Park
- Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens
- Conway Riverwalk
- River Island Adventures
- Brookgreen Gardens
- Charleston carriage tour
- Rice Museum
- Sunset Beach Park
- South Carolina Maritime Museum
- Downtown Charleston food tour
FAQ
What are some things to do near Myrtle Beach when it rains?
There are plenty of things to do near Myrtle Beach when it rains, such as visiting Georgetown’s South Carolina Maritime Museum and Rice Museum. You may also head to Charleston, and visit elaborate churches and historic mansions, like the Aiken-Rhett House.
