A Golfer’s Paradise: Exploring the Attractions Beyond the Greens in Myrtle Beach

Introduction

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a haven for golf enthusiasts, boasting over 80 golf courses and a warm climate that allows for year-round play. However, this coastal gem offers more than just exceptional golfing opportunities. Myrtle Beach is also home to stunning beaches, an array of family-friendly attractions, and a vibrant entertainment scene, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore the diverse attractions beyond the greens in Myrtle Beach, making it a perfect destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.

Beaches and Water Activities

1. Beachcombing and Sunbathing

Myrtle Beach’s 60-mile stretch of coastline, known as the Grand Strand, offers visitors plenty of opportunities to relax on the sandy shores, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. Popular beaches include Myrtle Beach State Park, Huntington Beach State Park, and North Myrtle Beach.

2. Watersports

For those seeking adventure on the water, Myrtle Beach offers a variety of watersports activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and stand-up paddleboarding. Local rental companies like Downwind Sails Watersports and Myrtle Beach Watersports can provide you with the necessary equipment and guidance for an exciting day on the water.

3. Deep-Sea Fishing

Myrtle Beach is a prime location for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts, with a diverse range of fish species, such as snapper, grouper, sea bass, and king mackerel. Several charter companies, such as Captain Smiley Fishing Charters and North Myrtle Beach Fishing Charters, offer half-day and full-day fishing excursions for anglers of all skill levels.

Family-Friendly Attractions

1. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Located at Broadway at the Beach, Ripley’s Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families. This state-of-the-art facility features a variety of exhibits, including the Dangerous Reef, where visitors can walk through a 340-foot underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and other marine life. Don’t miss the interactive touch tanks, the mesmerizing jellyfish gallery, and the Penguin Playhouse.

2. Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, standing at 187 feet tall, offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean from the comfort of its climate-controlled gondolas. A ride on the SkyWheel, especially during the evening when it’s illuminated by thousands of LED lights, is a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

3. Family Kingdom Amusement Park

This oceanfront amusement park has been entertaining families since 1966, with over 35 thrilling rides and attractions, including roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and bumper cars. Family Kingdom also features a water park, Splashes, which offers a variety of water slides and a lazy river, providing fun for the entire family.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Brookgreen Gardens

Spanning over 9,000 acres, Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning outdoor attraction that combines art, history, and nature. The meticulously landscaped gardens are home to one of the most extensive collections of American figurative sculpture, with over 2,000 works on display. Visitors can also explore the Lowcountry Zoo, which houses native animals in their natural habitats, and participate in guided tours and educational programs.

2. Myrtle Beach State Park

This picturesque park, located just minutes from downtown Myrtle Beach, offers a serene escape from the bustling city. The park features a mile-long stretch of pristine beach, a fishing pier, and several nature trails that wind through lush maritime forests. The park also offers picnic shelters, a playground, and a nature center, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing day outdoors.

3. Waccamaw River Tours

Explore the beauty of the Waccamaw River and its surrounding ecosystems with a guided boat tour. Waccamaw River Tours offer narrated eco-tours that provide visitors with an up-close look at the area’s diverse wildlife, such as alligators, ospreys, and bald eagles. These tours are not only educational but also provide a peaceful and scenic experience on the water.

Entertainment and Nightlife

1. Broadway at the Beach

This 350-acre entertainment complex is home to numerous attractions, shops, and restaurants, making it a one-stop destination for fun and entertainment. In addition to Ripley’s Aquarium, Broadway at the Beach features WonderWorks, an interactive science museum, and The Simpsons in 4D, an immersive attraction for fans of the popular animated series. The complex also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and live music venues such as the Hard Rock Café and Senor Frog’s.

2. The Carolina Opry

For a taste of the local performing arts scene, visit The Carolina Opry, a renowned theater that hosts a variety of shows, including musical performances, comedy acts, and dance performances. The theater’s signature show, The Carolina Opry, features a mix of country, gospel, rock, and pop music, showcasing the talents of local musicians, singers, and dancers.

3. House of Blues Myrtle Beach

Located at Barefoot Landing, the House of Blues Myrtle Beach is an iconic live music venue that hosts a variety of national and local acts. The venue offers a unique atmosphere, with its rustic, Southern-inspired décor and an extensive collection of folk art. In addition to live music, the House of Blues also features a restaurant serving Southern-inspired cuisine and a popular gospel brunch on Sundays.

Shopping and Dining

1. Tanger Outlets

Myrtle Beach is home to two Tanger Outlet locations, offering visitors the opportunity to shop for their favorite brands at discounted prices. With over 100 stores combined, these outlets feature popular retailers such as Nike, Coach, and Polo Ralph Lauren.

2. Barefoot Landing

Situated along the Intracoastal Waterway, Barefoot Landing is a picturesque outdoor shopping and dining destination that combines a relaxed atmosphere with a unique selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Be sure to explore the many local boutiques and specialty shops, as well as sample the diverse dining options that range from casual fare to fine dining.

3. The Market Common

The Market Common is a stylish, upscale shopping and dining destination in Myrtle Beach. This urban village offers a diverse range of shops, boutiques, and eateries, with a charming main street setting that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Browse through trendy fashion retailers, home goods stores, and specialty shops before settling down for a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants offering a variety of cuisine options.

Conclusion

Myrtle Beach is truly a golfer’s paradise, but its attractions extend far beyond the greens. With its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and vibrant entertainment scene, Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a golf getaway or a vacation with family and friends, Myrtle Beach is a destination that’s sure to create lasting memories.