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.