Family-Friendly Activities in Surfside Beach and the Myrtle Beach

If you’re planning a family vacation to the Myrtle Beach area, you’re in for a treat. The region is packed with attractions and activities that will delight visitors of all ages, from pristine beaches to exciting outdoor adventures and educational spots. Surfside Beach, just a short drive south of downtown Myrtle Beach, offers a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe but still provides easy access to the vibrant attractions of the Grand Strand.

Here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Surfside Beach and the surrounding Myrtle Beach area:

1. Spend the Day at Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach itself is a fantastic spot for families. Known for its clean, wide beach and quieter atmosphere compared to the busier Myrtle Beach, it’s the perfect place to spend a day building sandcastles, flying kites, or swimming in the Atlantic. There are plenty of beach access points, restrooms, and picnic areas, making it a convenient and comfortable place for families with young children. The gentle waves and shallow areas also make it safer for little ones to splash around.

2. Explore Huntington Beach State Park

Just a short drive from Surfside Beach, Huntington Beach State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The park offers miles of trails, wildlife viewing areas, and, of course, more beautiful beach space. Families can hike along the park’s scenic trails, including the easy-to-navigate Sandpiper Trail, which winds through salt marshes where kids can spot birds, turtles, and other wildlife. The park also has a large nature center with exhibits on local ecosystems, making it both fun and educational. Don’t forget to check out Atalaya Castle, a historic Spanish-style home located within the park grounds.

3. Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

No trip to the Myrtle Beach area would be complete without a visit to the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Stretching along the oceanfront for 1.2 miles, the boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel, offers stunning views of the coastline, and it’s a must-do for families. Kids will love the arcade games, candy shops, and street performers, while parents can relax with an ice cream or take in the ocean breeze.

4. Family Fun at Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach is one of the largest entertainment complexes in the Myrtle Beach area, and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. The area features an array of family-friendly attractions, such as the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, where kids can explore a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays. You can also check out the WonderWorks interactive science museum, which is full of hands-on exhibits for kids to engage with. There are also miniature golf courses, a ropes course, and plenty of shopping and dining options.

5. Mini Golf Adventures

The Myrtle Beach area is known for its wide variety of miniature golf courses, making it a great spot for family-friendly fun. Many of the courses are themed, such as the pirate-themed Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf or the dinosaur-themed Jurassic Golf. Whether your family enjoys a relaxed round of putt-putt or the thrill of navigating more challenging holes, there’s something for everyone. Some courses even offer water features, waterfalls, and glowing lights at night, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

6. Go for a Dolphin Cruise

A dolphin-watching cruise is a fantastic way to explore the waters around Myrtle Beach, and there are several family-friendly tour operators offering boat rides. These cruises take you into the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway or along the coast, where you’re likely to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life. Many tours are also educational, with guides sharing fascinating facts about the area’s ecosystem and wildlife. Kids especially love the opportunity to see dolphins leaping through the waves!

7. Splash and Play at Wild Water & Wheels

For families looking for water-based fun beyond the beach, Wild Water & Wheels in Surfside Beach is a must-visit. This family-friendly water park features a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. There are also go-karts and mini-golf for additional family fun. The park is perfect for all ages, with attractions ranging from gentle slides for younger children to high-speed thrills for older kids and adults.

8. Visit the Children’s Museum of South Carolina

Located in Myrtle Beach, the Children’s Museum of South Carolina is an interactive space designed to engage young minds. With exhibits focusing on art, science, music, and local history, the museum provides a hands-on learning experience that’s both fun and educational. Kids can build structures in the “construction zone,” experiment with water and light in the science area, or get creative in the art studio. It’s a great spot for a rainy day or an afternoon of learning and play.

9. Catch a Show at the Alabama Theatre

For families who enjoy live entertainment, the Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach offers family-friendly shows throughout the year. The theater is home to the One The Show, a musical variety show featuring talented singers, dancers, and musicians. The performances are high-energy and feature a mix of country, pop, and rock music. It’s a great way to introduce kids to live theater in an exciting and enjoyable atmosphere.

10. Explore the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge

For families who enjoy a peaceful day in nature, the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem. Located south of Myrtle Beach, this 28,000-acre refuge offers hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Families can take a leisurely walk on the boardwalk through the swamp or rent kayaks to explore the waterways. It’s a quiet spot to connect with nature and observe the area’s diverse wildlife.

11. Take a Trip to the Myrtle Beach State Park

If your family enjoys hiking, picnicking, and fishing, the Myrtle Beach State Park is another fantastic family destination. With trails through scenic coastal forests, access to a beautiful beach, and a fishing pier, it’s a great place to spend a day outdoors. There are also educational programs, including ranger-led tours, that teach about the area’s ecosystems.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to relax by the beach, explore nature, or enjoy thrilling attractions, the Surfside Beach vacation rentals and Myrtle Beach area has no shortage of family-friendly activities. The variety of experiences—from sandy shores to amusement parks to wildlife adventures—ensures there’s something for everyone in the family. So, pack your sunscreen, grab the kids, and get ready for an unforgettable vacation on the Grand Strand!