Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach with Kids (A Local Parent’s Guide)

If you search “things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids,” you’ll get a lot of the same generic lists—mini golf, boardwalk, beach… repeat.

But here’s the thing:
I’ve been coming to Myrtle Beach since I was a kid growing up in Northeast Ohio, taking the same family vacation here every single year. Now I’ve lived here since 2012 and I’m raising my own kids here.

And I can tell you this:

Most travel guides completely miss what actually makes Myrtle Beach special for families.

Yes, the beach is amazing (we’ll get to that). But the real magic—especially for kids—is what happens on the water and just outside the typical tourist bubble.

Let me show you how to do Myrtle Beach right.

First—Is Myrtle Beach Safe for Families?

Let’s address this upfront, because it comes up a lot online.

You may have seen posts or videos making Myrtle Beach seem unsafe. As a local parent, I can tell you that’s overblown.

Like any destination, there are areas you should avoid—but overall, Myrtle Beach is built for families. It’s a tourist town designed around family vacations.

We regularly let our kids play on the beach (within reason), explore, and enjoy themselves—and that’s the experience most families have here.

Don’t let fear-based content stop you from coming.

The #1 Thing Most Families Get Wrong

Most visitors come here and do this:

• Go to the beach
• Eat out
• Maybe hit mini golf
• Call it a day

And while that’s fine… you’re missing the best part of Myrtle Beach.

 The water experiences here are next-level—and most people don’t even know they exist.

The Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach with Kids

1. Get Out on the Water (This Is a MUST)

If you only take one piece of advice from this post, let it be this:

Do at least one water activity.

When I was a kid, my favorite memories weren’t just the beach—they were:

• Dolphin cruises
• Jet ski rentals (once I was old enough, I couldn’t get enough)
• Being out on the ocean

Now, my own kids love the exact same things.

Our #1 Recommendation (Local Favorite)

If you want a standout experience, book a trip with Southern Shores Cruises.

What makes them different:

• Catamaran dolphin cruises (smoother ride = better for kids)
• They stop at barrier islands so your kids can get off and explore
• Options for all ages—from relaxing to adrenaline-packed

For older kids, their jet boat ride is a blast—think speed, spins, splashes, and lots of laughs.

Other great water options:

• Jet ski rentals & dolphin tours
• Parasailing
• Banana boat rides
• Fishing charters (inshore or deep sea)
• Pirate boat adventures (great for younger kids)

 Pro tip: The Intracoastal Waterway is what makes Myrtle Beach unique—don’t miss it.

2. Stay (or Spend Time) in North Myrtle Beach

If you’re deciding where to stay, here’s my strong opinion:

👉 North Myrtle Beach is the best area for families.

Why I always recommend it:

• Less crowded beaches
• More beach houses, fewer high-rise hotels
• Quieter, more relaxed vibe
• Still tons to do

It’s also the best spot for water activities because you’re:

• Close to the Intracoastal Waterway
• Only about 9 miles from the ocean inlet

That means:
✔️ Less travel time on the boat
✔️ More time actually enjoying the experience

Even if you’re staying elsewhere, it’s 100% worth driving up here for a day or two.

3. Don’t Skip the Simple Beach Days

Even with all the activities, don’t overcomplicate it.

Some of my best memories as a kid—and now with my own kids—are just:

• Playing in the waves
• Running along the shoreline
• Spending hours in the sand

One of my favorite spots:
📍 Cherry Grove Point (North Myrtle Beach)

• Beautiful views
• Inlet + ocean combo
• Great for exploring with kids

4. Try a Sandcastle Building Lesson (Hidden Gem)

This is something most blogs never mention—but kids LOVE it.

In North Myrtle Beach, you can take sandcastle building lessons where professionals teach you how to build incredible structures fast.

It turns a normal beach day into:

• A hands-on activity
• A creative challenge
• A memory your kids won’t forget

5. Visit Broadway at the Beach (Still Worth It)

This is one of those classic spots that is touristy—but still worth doing.

As a kid:

• My siblings and I loved the rides and games
• My mom loved the shopping

And that hasn’t changed.

It’s a great evening activity when you want a break from the sun.

6. Eat Like You’re on Vacation

Food is part of the experience here.

As a kid, I loved:

• All-you-can-eat seafood buffets
• Trying foods we didn’t have back home

Now, I lean more toward local spots in North Myrtle Beach like:

• Barefoot Landing (great for families + variety)
• Waterfront restaurants along the Intracoastal

It’s not just about eating—it’s about the atmosphere.

A Simple 3-Day Family Game Plan

If you want a quick structure:

Day 1:

• Beach day
• Dinner + evening at Broadway at the Beach

Day 2:

• Dolphin cruise or jet ski adventure
• Relax + explore North Myrtle

Day 3:

• Sandcastle lesson
• Chill beach time
• Waterfront dinner

Final Thoughts: How to Do Myrtle Beach Right with Kids

If you remember anything from this guide, let it be this:

1. Myrtle Beach is more than just the beach
2. The best experiences happen on the water
3. North Myrtle Beach is your best home base

I’ve experienced this place as:

• A kid on vacation
• A teenager chasing jet ski rides
• A local parent raising my own kids here

And the truth is… the best parts haven’t changed.

Sun, water, and time together—that’s what your kids will remember.

If you’re planning to rent a jet ski on vacation, especially in Myrtle Beach, you might assume all rental companies are basically the same. You find one online, pick a time, show up, and go ride. But before booking jet ski rentals in Myrtle Beach, it’s worth knowing that not all rental companies provide the same level of safety, transparency, or overall experience.

After 15 years working in the jet ski rental industry in Myrtle Beach, I can tell you that’s definitely not the case.

I started in this business in 2012 as a dock hand, worked my way up to ranger (guide) on the water, handled reservations and customer service, managed companies with multiple locations and over 40 jet skis, and now I’ve owned my own jet ski rental company for the past three years. Over that time I’ve seen the industry from every angle — the good operators, the bad ones, and everything in between.

Most visitors only rent jet skis once every few years, so it’s hard to know what separates a great company from one that just wants to get you in and out as fast as possible.

Here are the most important things to look for when choosing a jet ski rental company, based on my experience running rentals on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean in Myrtle Beach.

Don’t Choose a Jet Ski Rental Company Based on Price Alone

One of the biggest mistakes customers make is choosing the cheapest option they find online.

I see this all the time.

In reality, most jet ski rental companies have very similar operating costs — fuel, insurance, maintenance, staff, and marina fees. Because of that, the real price difference between reputable companies is usually only about $5–$10.

So when you see one company advertising rates that are much cheaper than everyone else, there’s usually a catch.

Sometimes newer companies discount heavily to try to gain customers quickly. Other times, companies lower prices because they’re struggling to fill bookings. But the most common reason the price looks lower is because not everything is included in that advertised price.

Which leads to the next point.

Watch Out for Hidden Fees

One of the biggest frustrations customers tell me about is hidden fees.

A price might look great online, but when you actually book the rental or show up at the dock, you suddenly see extra charges like:

• Mandatory insurance fees
• Service or booking fees
• Fuel surcharges
• Taxes that weren’t included in the advertised price

I recently had customers who rented from another company on the beach in Myrtle Beach. They told me the online price looked about $30 cheaper than other places.

But once they paid the insurance and additional fees that weren’t shown upfront, they ended up paying more than they expected.

Transparent pricing is something every professional company should offer. When you’re comparing companies, make sure the price you see is close to the price you’ll actually pay.

Safety Should Always Be the Top Priority

A professional jet ski rental company will always prioritize safety over everything else, even when customers think it might take away from the fun.

The first and most important step is the safety briefing.

At my company, every customer receives:

• A written safety guide
• A video briefing sent before arrival
• A verbal walkthrough on the jet ski itself

This way everyone understands the controls, rules, and how to operate the ski safely before leaving the dock.

You’d be surprised how many companies rush through this step.

But the biggest safety factor is something many customers don’t think about.

There Should Always Be a Guide on the Water

In my opinion, any company that sends customers out alone without a ranger or guide is a major red flag.

When you’re riding jet skis there are a lot of variables:

• Boat traffic
• Tides and currents
• Weather changes
• Equipment issues
• Inexperienced riders

Having someone experienced on the water makes a huge difference.

At my company we maintain a ratio of one ranger for every four jet skis. This allows us to keep an eye on everyone, help new riders improve their skills, and step in quickly if something unexpected happens.

Without supervision, small issues can turn into dangerous situations very quickly.

Make Sure the Company Follows State Laws

Another thing many customers don’t realize is that jet ski operators must follow state boating laws.

In South Carolina, anyone born after July 1, 2007 must have a boater’s license to operate a jet ski.

Some companies cut corners and let parents decide if their child is ready to drive. I’ve seen this end badly many times during my career.

At my company we follow the law strictly. If someone needs a license, we offer a $10 temporary boater’s license course online that takes about 30 minutes to complete before the rental.

Insurance companies also typically require drivers to be 18 years old with a valid driver’s license.

If a company is willing to ignore these rules, that’s a sign they may also cut corners in other areas.

Great Companies Personalize the Experience

Another difference between average companies and great ones is how they treat customers.

Some places simply put you on a jet ski and say, “Have fun.”

But every rider is different.

Some people want to go fast and jump waves, while others want to take it slow, look for wildlife, and enjoy the scenery.

At my company we always take a few minutes to learn:

• Where customers are visiting from
• Their riding experience
• What they want to get out of the ride

Then we tailor the experience to match.

A Great Guide Can Turn a Rental Into an Adventure

Some of the best memories people take home from Myrtle Beach happen on the water.

I love showing customers hidden areas of the Intracoastal Waterway, spotting wildlife, and pointing out things most visitors would never find on their own.

Sometimes that means:

• Finding dolphins offshore
• Exploring marsh trails behind the islands
• Riding through quiet waterways most people never see

Other times it’s just taking photos for families so they can remember the trip.

Little things like that make a big difference.

A Real Example of Why the Right Company Matters

One experience that stands out happened with a group who rented from another company the day before they came to see me.

They told me they had a good time, but they wanted to try something different. Their original rental had them riding in a small area off the beach, mostly going in circles.

Since they had already ridden once, I suggested something different.

We started on the Intracoastal Waterway, rode out to the Atlantic Ocean to look for dolphins, then traveled up the coast toward North Carolina before coming back through another inlet.

By the time we returned, we had completed a 50-mile round trip ride.

Along the way they saw dolphins, explored areas most visitors never see, and even got a glimpse of a small coastal town in North Carolina.

They were blown away by how different the experience was.

Now they come back every year and bring new friends with them.

Final Thoughts

After 15 years working in the jet ski rental industry in Myrtle Beach, I’ve learned that the best rental companies all have a few things in common.

They focus on:

• Safety first
• Honest pricing
• Professional guides
• Following the law
• Creating unforgettable experiences

If you’re planning a trip and want a safe, guided ride on the water, check out our jet ski rentals in Myrtle Beach to see available times and what to expect.

Jet skiing should be one of the most exciting parts of your vacation, not something you regret booking.

If you take a little time to choose the right company, you’ll have a much better chance of leaving the water with the same thing I try to give every customer:

An experience you’ll talk about long after your trip to Myrtle Beach is over. 

Looking for the ultimate adrenaline rush in North Myrtle Beach? If you’re tired of the same old slow-paced sightseeing tours, it’s time to trade the relaxation for a heart-pounding adventure. Welcome to the Thrillseeker Jet Boat Ride at Southern Shores Cruises—the only experience of its kind on the Intracoastal Waterway!

What is the Thrillseeker Jet Boat Ride?

Imagine a roller coaster, but on the water. Our custom-built, 32-foot jet boat is powered by a massive 900hp engine, designed specifically for speed, agility, and massive splashes. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s an adrenaline-packed journey through the scenic waters of North Myrtle Beach.

3 Levels of Thrills

We don’t just go fast; we build the excitement! Your 1-hour adventure is broken down into three distinct levels:

1. Level 1: The Warm Up – We start with a scenic cruise out of Cherry Grove Marina. You’ll get a safety briefing and a chance to take in the beautiful coastal views.

2. Level 2: The Speed – Once we hit the open water, we open up the 900hp engine. Feel the wind in your hair as we race down the Intracoastal Waterway.

3. Level 3: The Adrenaline – This is where things get wild! Your USCG-licensed captain will perform precision maneuvers like 360-degree spins, power slides, and fishtails.

Prepare to Get Wet!

If you’re asking, “Will I get wet?” the answer is a resounding YES. In fact, getting soaked is half the fun! We recommend wearing swimwear or quick-dry clothing and leaving anything that can’t get wet (like non-waterproof phones or cameras) in your car or a dry bag.

Why Choose Southern Shores Cruises?

• The Only Jet Boat in NMB: We are the exclusive provider of this high-speed jet boat experience in the North Myrtle Beach area.

• Rock ‘n’ Roll Soundtrack: Every ride is synced to a high-energy soundtrack to keep the vibes high.

• Expert Captains: Our captains aren’t just drivers; they are entertainers and safety experts with years of experience on these local waters.

• Family Fun: While it’s high-thrill, it’s also great for families! (Note: Riders must be at least 42” tall).

Ready to Ride?

The Thrillseeker departs from the Cherry Grove Marina in North Myrtle Beach. Spots fill up fast, especially during the summer season, so be sure to book your tickets in advance.

Book Your Thrillseeker Jet Boat Ride Now! 

Summer is almost here, and at Southern Shores Cruises, we aren’t just taking you to the water—we’re helping you conquer the shore!

We are beyond thrilled to announce the official launch of our Sandcastle Building Lessons in Myrtle Beach! If you thought building a sandcastle was just for toddlers with a plastic bucket, think again. This summer, we’re teaming up with the pros at Create A Castle to turn your beach day into a high-tech, high-fives-included masterpiece session.

What’s the Big Deal? (Literally!)

Ever wonder how those professional sand sculptors make towers that look like they belong in a fairytale? We’re pulling back the curtain. Our lessons use the award-winning, Shark Tank-featured split molds that allow you to build massive, detailed structures in a fraction of the time.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new weekend hobby or a visitor wanting that “perfect vacation photo,” our expert instructors will show you the tips, tricks, and “sand-science” to build show-stopping sculptures.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Fun for All Ages: From the littlest “diggers” to the “Master Builders” (we see you, Dad!), this is the ultimate family bonding experience.

• Pro Tools Provided: Forget those flimsy buckets. We provide the patented Create A Castle kits and professional carving tools.

• The Ultimate “Flex”: Imagine the look on the faces of other beachgoers when they walk past your 3-foot-tall, intricately carved fortress.

• Rain or Shine: We’ve got a backup! If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we can bring the beach to you with our indoor BuildMaster kits.

Meet the Visionaries

This isn’t just any lesson. You might even get the chance to learn from the best! We’ve partnered with Kevin Lane, the founder of Create A Castle, to ensure our program is the first and only of its kind in the Myrtle Beach area. Our team is trained to help you stack, shape, and carve like a pro.

Ready to Build Your Legacy?

We are officially launching these lessons THIS SUMMER, and spots are already starting to fill up. Whether it’s for a birthday party, a corporate team-building event, or just a Tuesday morning at the beach, we can’t wait to see what you create.

How to Book: Head over to SouthernShoresCruises.com to grab your spot. Don’t just visit the beach this summer—make your mark on it!

See you on the sand!

We’ve got exciting news, cruisers! Southern Shores Cruises is proud to announce the launch of our official online apparel shop—now live at southernshorescruises.com/shop! Whether you’re gearing up for your next adventure or want to bring a little island energy to your everyday look, we’ve got you covered—literally.

👕 What’s in the Shop?

Our brand-new apparel line features:

• Soft, coastal-inspired t-shirts perfect for beach days or casual cruising

• Cozy hoodies to keep you warm during breezy sunsets on the water

• Stylish hats to top off your look and shade you from that tropical sun

Each item is thoughtfully designed to reflect the laid-back, adventurous spirit of Southern Shores Cruises. Whether you’ve cruised with us before or you’re just dreaming of the Caribbean, our apparel lets you wear the vibe wherever you go.

🧭 Why We Created It

Our guests often ask how they can bring a piece of the cruise experience home. With the new Southern Shores Apparel Shop, you can rep your love for the sea and support a small business while doing it.

This isn’t just merch—it’s a reminder of unforgettable memories, clear waters, and warm breezes.

🌴 Cruise-Inspired. Island-Approved.

Perfect for gifting, travel days, or just channeling some laid-back island energy into your daily life.

So go ahead, treat yourself or a fellow traveler and check out the shop today:
👉 southernshorescruises.com/shop

If you’re dreaming of a personalized adventure on the water, Southern Shores Cruises has you covered with their exclusive private excursions. Whether you’re exploring hidden beaches, snorkeling vibrant reefs, or chasing a stunning sunset, their private charters are the perfect way to make unforgettable memories.

Why Choose a Private Excursion?

A private excursion with Southern Shores Cruises means the experience is entirely tailored to you. No crowded boats or preset itineraries—just your group, your adventure, and the stunning waters. Perfect for family outings, romantic getaways, or special celebrations, these excursions let you explore in comfort and style.

Discover Hidden Gems

With over 20 years of boating expertise, Captain Gabe knows all the secret spots that make your trip extraordinary. From secluded coves to the best dolphin-viewing areas, you’ll see the side of the sea most visitors miss.

What to Expect on Your Cruise

• Customized Itineraries: Whether you want to snorkel, sightsee, or relax, your trip is designed around your preferences.
• Luxury Comfort: Spacious, well-equipped boats ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride for all passengers.
• Memorable Views: Soak in breathtaking vistas of the coastline, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life.

Exciting Destinations, Including St. Thomas, USVI

Now launching in St. Thomas, Southern Shores Cruises brings their private charters to one of the most picturesque destinations in the Caribbean. Discover the beauty of the Virgin Islands at your own pace with the ultimate customized adventure.

Book Your Private Charter Today!

Ready to create lasting memories? Visit SouthernShoresCruises.com to reserve your private excursion today. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Southern Shores Cruises delivers an unforgettable experience on the water.