8 Best Things to Do in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach keeps things simple in the best way with wide beaches, low-key neighborhoods, and just enough to do without feeling overbuilt or overwhelmed.It’s the kind of place where your days naturally fall into a rhythm: mornings on the sand, afternoons on the water, and nights that are as laid-back or lively as you want them to be. These are the spots and experiences that are actually worth your time while you’re here.
Booking your stay at the oceanfront Beach Cove Resort puts you right in the middle of all the action, with direct beach access and a location just minutes from the area's best attractions.
1. Soak Up The Sun at the Beach
North Myrtle Beach is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and playful waves, making it a perfect spot for swimming, shelling, and soaking up the sun. Here are the top beach areas to explore:
Cherry Grove Beach
A favorite for families, Cherry Grove offers a serene atmosphere and easy access to the Cherry Grove Fishing Pier.
Ocean Drive Beach
This lively stretch is great for swimming and people-watching, and it's home to Fat Harold’s Beach Club, where the beloved Shag dance style that was born right here in North Myrtle Beach lives on.
Windy Hill Beach
Quieter and less crowded, Windy Hill is conveniently close to Barefoot Landing for shopping and dining afterward. It’s typically less crowded than some of the central access points, with a more relaxed feel and easier setup for a full beach day.
2. Dine Oceanfront (And Close to It)
Dining in North Myrtle Beach is an experience all its own, from fresh seafood enjoyed with sweeping ocean views to beloved local institutions that have served generations of visitors. Below are a few spots you won't want to miss.
Driftwood Restaurant at Cherry Grove Pier
Perched directly above the waves, Driftwood Restaurant serves beach favorites like shrimp baskets and burgers, perfect for a casual lunch or sunset dinner.
Snooky's Oceanfront
A North Myrtle Beach classic on the Ocean Drive section of the beach, Snooky's offers outdoor dining with stunning ocean views and a menu loaded with local seafood favorites.
Molly Darcy's Irish Pub and Restaurant
Irish hospitality meets beachfront dining at Molly Darcy's, where the menu ranges from fish and chips to traditional Irish dishes enjoyed with the sound of the waves just outside.
Joe's Bar and Grill
Ask any local where to eat in North Myrtle Beach, and Joe's Bar and Grill will almost certainly be the answer. A North Myrtle Beach staple for over 30 years, Joe's has built its reputation on serving the highest-quality food in a casual atmosphere, with a menu featuring beef, lamb chops, fresh seafood, and poultry.
Directly across from Barefoot Landing and just down the road from Beach Cove Resort, Joe's is open seven days a week starting at 4:30 PM, and Happy Hour is from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, Sunday through Thursday.
Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended.
3. Dive Into Watersports on the Atlantic
For adventure seekers, North Myrtle Beach is a coastal playground with no shortage of ways to get out on the water. The Atlantic coast and the Intracoastal Waterway provide the perfect backdrop for everything from high-speed thrills to peaceful paddles.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Experience the tranquility of Cherry Grove's salt marshes on a relaxing kayak or paddleboard adventure. Kayaking and paddleboarding are good ways to slow things down and see a different side of North Myrtle Beach. The Intracoastal Waterway and nearby marshes are usually calm, making them ideal for an easy paddle, even if you’re new to it.
You’ll get a closer look at the natural side of the area—quiet channels, wildlife, and stretches of water you won’t see from the beach. Rentals are easy to find, and it’s a low-key option that still gets you out on the water without much effort.
Jet Skiing
Jet skiing is one of the easiest ways to add a little speed to your beach trip. You can ride along the coastline or through the Intracoastal, depending on where you rent, with plenty of room to open it up.
Most rentals are straightforward with quick safety run-throughs, so you can get out on the water fast. It’s a solid pick if you want something more active than lying on the beach but still easy to fit into your day.
Parasailing
Soar above the Grand Strand coastline for breathtaking aerial views of North Myrtle Beach from above. It's a bucket-list experience that's suitable for most ages and a memory that will last long after the trip is over.
Fishing Charters
Booking a local fishing charter is a fantastic way to spend a full day on the water exploring North Myrtle Beach's prime fishing spots. You’ll head out with a captain who knows the local waters, whether that means inshore fishing in the marshes or heading offshore for something bigger.
Trips usually run half or full day, and most charters provide gear, bait, and guidance, so it’s easy even if you’ve never done it before. It’s a solid option if you want a break from the beach and a chance to do something a little more hands-on while you’re here.
4. Explore Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing is North Myrtle Beach's waterfront hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, set along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway just minutes from Beach Cove Resort. Beyond the boutiques and restaurants, two attractions make it a must-visit:
Alligator Adventure
Alligator Adventure is home to hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, lemurs, turtles, and exotic birds. Live handler shows and feeding demonstrations make it both educational and thrilling for kids and adults of all ages.
Duplin Winery
Duplin Winery is known for its famous muscadine wines, guided tastings, a relaxing patio, and live music on select evenings. It's a wonderful change of pace for wine-loving adults looking to unwind.
5. Experience Live Entertainment and Nightlife
When the sun sets, North Myrtle Beach comes alive with entertainment options that rival any city on the East Coast. These three venues are the best of the best:
The Carolina Opry
One of the most celebrated live shows in the South, The Carolina Opry features high-energy variety performances that are perfect for the entire family. Expect a mix of country music, dazzling choreography, and comedy acts from talented performers who keep audiences coming back year after year.
The Alabama Theatre
Located right in Barefoot Landing, the Alabama Theatre is famous for its flagship show "ICONIC," a spectacular production featuring live music, dancers, and award-winning performances with special effects. It's the kind of show that draws rave reviews from first-timers and returning visitors alike.
House of Blues
House of Blues is an iconic music venue that brings world-class live acts spanning blues, rock, reggae, and pop to North Myrtle Beach throughout the year. Combine dinner with a show and enjoy the outdoor deck on warm nights for a complete evening out.
6. Play a Round of Mini Golf
North Myrtle Beach is legendary for its miniature golf courses. The mini golf courses here are among the most creative and entertaining in the country, featuring volcanic eruptions, pirate themes, and imaginative obstacles that make every hole an adventure.
Hawaiian Rumble
Hawaiian Rumble is a top-rated 18-hole mini-golf course with batting cages and a 40-foot volcano centerpiece.
Black Pearl Mini-Golf
This pirate-themed course features adventurous obstacles and an immersive atmosphere – perfect for the entire family.
7. Get Outside: Top Outdoor Activities
Photo Credit: Joanne Dale
Beyond the beach, North Myrtle Beach offers a great range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Shark Wake Park 843
This family-friendly destination features a floating obstacle course with slides and climbing towers, plus wakeboarding and kneeboarding for thrill-seekers of all skill levels.
Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
A one-mile loop trail winds along boardwalks beside House Creek, offering a serene, easy walk perfect for families with young children or anyone looking to reconnect with nature.
Little River
Just a short drive north, the charming waterfront town of Little River is a great day trip destination with guided tours, dolphin-watching cruises, and deep-sea fishing excursions out in the Atlantic Ocean.
8. Shop ‘Til You Drop
The North Myrtle Beach area is filled with great shopping spots that offer everything from beachwear and souvenirs to unique local finds and high-end brands. Here are some top places to explore for a memorable shopping experience:
Tanger Outlets
Tanger Outlets offers designer and brand-name stores offering discounts on clothing, shoes, and accessories; popular stores include Nike, Coach, Michael Kors, and more.
Boulineau’s at Cherry Grove
Boulineau’s is one of those classic Cherry Grove spots that does a little bit of everything—and that’s exactly why people rely on it. It’s part grocery store, part beach supply shop, and part local staple, all under one roof.
If you’re staying nearby, this is where you’ll grab last-minute essentials, snacks, drinks, and anything you forgot to pack without having to leave the area. It’s not fancy, but it’s convenient, well-stocked, and a go-to for both visitors and locals.
Where to Stay in North Myrtle Beach
With its wide beaches, endless dining options, exciting nightlife, and family-friendly attractions, North Myrtle Beach has everything you need for a beach getaway. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a food lover, or simply looking to relax by the ocean, North Myrtle Beach has it all!
From oceanfront dining to adrenaline-pumping watersports and charming shops, each part of this vibrant destination promises fun and memories.
Pack your sunscreen, get ready to explore, and let North Myrtle Beach show you the best of the Carolina coast. Book your stay at the beautiful Beach Cove Resort and create amazing vacation memories with the entire family!
