If you’re in Myrtle Beach and want to see more, you’re in luck. There are many great places just a short drive away. You can visit charming coastal towns, natural sites, and cultural spots. These day trips will give you varied experiences right near the beach.
Ever thought about what’s outside Myrtle Beach’s sandy shores? There are spots for adventure or just to relax nearby. You can spend your day at a lively coastal town, a peaceful beach, or learn about history. These trips from Myrtle Beach will help you discover unforgettable places.
Key Takeaways:
- Explore beyond Myrtle Beach for a diverse range of experiences.
- Discover charming coastal towns, natural wonders, and cultural attractions nearby.
- Escape the crowds and find tranquility in a beachside retreat.
- Immerse yourself in history and culture with visits to historic towns.
- Uncover hidden gems and create unforgettable memories.
North Myrtle Beach, SC
Just about 12.4 miles from Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach is great for a day trip. It boasts pristine beaches and a lively entertainment scene. You’ll find something fun to do here.
Barefoot Landing is a top spot. It’s filled with shops for souvenirs and clothes. Make time to see a live show at the Alabama Theatre or enjoy the music at the House of Blues.
If you love food, North Myrtle Beach has lots to offer. You can enjoy fresh seafood and dishes from around the world. Tasting the local favorite, Lowcountry boil, is a must. And dining by the water is perfect for a special night out.
Main Street is a charming area not to be missed. It’s full of unique shops and boutiques. Plus, it’s great for a relaxing walk and finding special souvenirs.
If outdoor fun is your thing, this beach town has you covered. Walk or bike along the promenade. Or relax on the sandy shores. You can also try kayaking or paddleboarding for a new view of the area.
North Myrtle Beach offers a mix of relaxation and fun. Enjoy the sea, shows, and tasty food. It’s definitely worth a visit from neighboring Myrtle Beach.
Cherry Grove, SC
Need a break from Myrtle Beach’s crowds? Cherry Grove is just 14.7 miles away. It’s a peaceful town by the ocean, perfect for relaxing.
The town’s star is the Cherry Grove Pier. It’s 985 feet long and offers stunning views. It’s great for fishing or just enjoying the scenery from its deck.
There’s more than fishing in Cherry Grove. You can walk on the sandy beaches, collect seashells, and listen to the waves. Don’t miss the Cherry Grove Beach Nature Preserve for its trails and programs about the local wildlife and nature.
Attractions in Cherry Grove
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Cherry Grove Pier | The only privately owned pier along the Grand Strand, offering fishing and stunning ocean views. |
| Cherry Grove Beach Nature Preserve | A nature preserve boasting wildlife, nature trails, and educational programs. |
| Beachfront Park | A serene park located right on the beach, ideal for picnics and leisurely walks. |
As the sun sets, watch the sky light up over the ocean. Cherry Grove is a top choice for a peaceful break from Myrtle Beach. It offers unforgettable views and a calm atmosphere.
Conway, SC
Conway is perfect if you love history or seek a charming town. It’s just 17.7 miles from Myrtle Beach. This historic spot has a lively downtown area with boutiques and local eateries. Don’t miss the Conway Museum. It’s filled with exhibits that tell the town’s story.
The Riverwalk is Conway’s gem, a beautiful boardwalk by the Waccamaw River. Walking here means seeing stunning river views, green trees, and pretty bridges. It’s great for a slow stroll, a picnic, or just enjoying the calm.
This town is alive with arts, too. The Theatre of the Republic puts on musicals, plays, and concerts. At the Conway Glass Center, you can see local artists’ work. It’s a cool place to visit if you love art.
Attractions in Conway:
- Horry County Museum – Discover the history and heritage of Horry County through exhibits and artifacts.
- Conway Riverwalk – Take a peaceful stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the scenic views of the Waccamaw River.
- Conway Glass Center – Explore the art of glassblowing and browse the unique glass creations made by local artists.
- Theatre of the Republic – Catch a live performance at this historic theater, showcasing a variety of shows throughout the year.
- Conway Museum – Learn about Conway’s past and view interesting exhibits that highlight the town’s history and culture.
Conway blends history, culture, and nature beautifully, making it a great day trip from Myrtle Beach. You can enjoy museums, the riverfront, or local art. There’s something here for everyone.
Next, let’s head to Murrells Inlet, SC, another fantastic day trip near Myrtle Beach.
Murrells Inlet, SC
Murrells Inlet, just 19.2 miles from Myrtle Beach, is famous for its fresh seafood. Visitors enjoy it along the MarshWalk. They can also find live music and partake in watersports like paddleboarding.
Morse Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer more activities. Morse Park is a lovely spot to relax, picnic, or fish by the water. There are playgrounds and a gazebo for listening to live music. Huntington Beach State Park has beautiful beaches, Atalaya Castle, and wildlife. It’s great for nature walks and birdwatching, or to simply relax on the beach.
“Murrells Inlet is a hidden gem on the South Carolina coast, offering a combination of delicious seafood, vibrant entertainment, and natural beauty. It’s the perfect spot for a day trip from Myrtle Beach.” – Local resident
If you love the beach, good seafood, or outdoor fun, Murrells Inlet is perfect. It’s a must-visit coastal town just a short drive from Myrtle Beach.
Popular attractions in Murrells Inlet:
- MarshWalk
- Brookgreen Gardens
- Morse Park
- Huntington Beach State Park
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| MarshWalk | A half-mile wooden boardwalk along the waterfront with a variety of restaurants, live music venues, and breathtaking views. |
| Brookgreen Gardens | A stunning garden that showcases sculptures, botanical gardens, and a Lowcountry Zoo, all set within a magnificent setting. |
| Morse Park | A waterfront park with picnic areas, fishing spots, playgrounds, and a gazebo for live music performances. |
| Huntington Beach State Park | A natural paradise with beautiful beaches, nature trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the historic Atalaya Castle. |
Little River, SC
Only 21.6 miles from Myrtle Beach, Little River is the Grand Strand’s northernmost jewel. It’s perfect for a day trip, offering coastal beauty and plenty of things to do.
Attractions in Little River
- Little River Blue Crab Festival: This event honors the area’s seafood culture with music, arts, and, of course, crabs. Seafood fans will love it.
- La Belle Amie Vineyard: At this serene vineyard, you can sample wines and walk the grounds. Try their award-winning wines for a delightful experience.
Things to Do in Little River
- Fishing: Being the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” fishing is big here. You can either charter a boat or fish off the pier.
- Boating and Water Sports: Rent a boat, kayak, or try jet skiing in Little River. It’s your chance to explore beautiful waterways.
Loved for its coastal vibes, tasty seafood, and diverse activities. Little River is great for fishing, wine tasting, or simply relaxing by the shore.
Immerse yourself in Little River’s beauty on a day trip from Myrtle Beach. Discover stunning waterways, great seafood, and lively festivals.
Huntington Beach State Park (in Murrells Inlet, SC)
Nature lovers find joy at Huntington Beach State Park, 22 miles south of Myrtle Beach. This stunning park has beautiful beaches, saltmarshes, lagoons, and a forest. It’s a top spot for watching birds, including many different species.
Looking for outdoor adventure and a glimpse of South Carolina’s coastal beauty? Visit Huntington Beach State Park. Here, you can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, picnicking, and observing wildlife.
Attractions in Huntington Beach State Park
The Atalaya Castle is a key site to see. This castle, now a museum, was the winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. It features their life and art.
“Huntington Beach State Park is a hidden gem. The beaches are pristine, and the nature trails offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.” – Mary, a visitor
The nature center educates visitors on local plants and wildlife. It shows the park’s unique ecosystems and the need for conservation.
Things to Do in Huntington Beach State Park
There’s lots to do at Huntington Beach State Park. Some favorites include:
- Relaxing on the beautiful beaches
- Exploring the nature trails and observing wildlife
- Taking a guided kayak tour through the saltmarshes
- Fishing in the freshwater lagoons or off the fishing pier
Enjoy a chill beach day or a fun hike in the forest. Huntington Beach State Park has activities for all.
Day Trip from Myrtle Beach to Huntington Beach State Park
Escape to Huntington Beach State Park from Myrtle Beach for a quiet day in nature. It’s an easy car ride away, with plenty of parking.
To prepare, check the park’s website for updates. Don’t forget to bring a picnic and lots of water for your trip.
Brookgreen Gardens (in Murrells Inlet, SC)
Step into a world of art, nature, and history at Brookgreen Gardens. It’s just 23.5 miles from Myrtle Beach. You’ll find beautiful gardens, a rich collection of American sculptures, and a zoo all in one place.
Walk the gardens and see a mix of local and exotic plants. There are colorful flowers and big oak trees covered in Spanish moss. It’s a quiet place perfect for a stroll or a picnic.
The sculpture collection is huge and shows the best of American art. You’ll find statues of historical figures and giant animal sculptures. Each piece shares a unique story.
The Lowcountry Zoo is great for families. You can see otters playing and birds of prey up close. It’s a chance to learn about local wildlife and how it’s protected.
A visit to Brookgreen Gardens is ideal for nature and art lovers. It’s also perfect for anyone wanting a peaceful escape or a fun family day. There’s something special here for everyone.
