is myrtle beach safari worth it

Myrtle Beach Safari

Review Highlights

“ We got to meet the doc himself and he appears to truly love the animals and so does his staff! ” in 4 reviews

“ We got to feed and hug Bubbles the elephant, play/cuddle with the baby tigers, lemurs, gibbons, and chimpanzees. ” in 4 reviews

“ We did the daytime safari from 9am-1:30pm. ” in 2 reviews

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About the Business

The Wild Encounters Tour is one of the greatest hands-on experiences on earth! Tours include feeding Bubbles, our 9,000 pound African elephant, playing and interacting with baby tiger cubs, watching an eagle soar, meeting King Tut, our resident cheetah, monkeying around with great apes and so much more! The price for the Wild Encounters Tour starts at $339 per person and varies by season and availability. …

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Overall rating

This was an absolutely incredible experience and worth every penny. We did the daytime safari and were there from 9-130, the first hour was a little bit of sitting around and getting to know the place, but then it is constant action at a reasonable pace. They fed us a few times and kept us entertained. The Ligers and Lynx and Wolves and Monkeys and elephant were incredible and the staff was very knowledgeable and caring. If you are in the area, book your safari! It was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and I will recommend it to everyone!

If you're considering going to Myrtle Beach Safari. Do it!!!! I highly recommend. I fulfilled one of my biggest dreams, to hold a monkey and chimpanzee. The whole experience is incredible. You learn so much. You get to touch almost everything. I loved all of the people working there. You can see how much they love the animals.. You get to take your time with the animals. Today was seriously one of the best days of my life!. Everyone needs to experience this once in their life. Everything that's included in the Safari is amazing.. they took 300 of the most beautiful pictures and that are included in the price. Well worth it.. i can not tell you enough how much I loved this!

See all photos from Tanya A. for Myrtle Beach Safari

This was our first time and it was amazing! The staff was very friendly and always gave clear instructions. They give you drinks and snacks throughout the tour, then do pizza and chips and drinks towards the end. We did the daytime safari from 9am-1:30pm. It is expensive but you get a lot of interactions with the animals and lots to see. It down poured for about 15 minutes while we were there, meeting and learning about Bubbles the elephant. They give you umbrellas if you choose to stay out from the covering, but there is a covered area if you choose not to get rained on at all. This is definitely something that needs to be added to your bucket list!

Absolutely amazing time here! We did the night tour, and after a slow start getting everyone checked it, the tour was fantastic. You can tell the animals are truly loved here and you get to interact with so many. We can't wait to come back and do the day tour!

My family loved there entire day at the Safari and then the highlight was hanging with Bubbles and his beautiful family at there home and taking a dip in the intercostal's waterway, off the hook Awesome memories made that will never be forgotten

I waited for over a year to visit here. It did nit disappoint! The day Safari was amazing. The brought out tons of animals and gave you ample time with them. They also gave you snacks through. It was about 3 hours of pure pleasure and excitement. I have been waiting to see Angada for over a year and he was so cool and fun!! Thank you Moksha for sharing him!! Speaking of Moksha, she was a delight! Super friendly and always smiling! The night tour was fun. There was a campfire with the 2 older chimps but you didn't get to interact with. If you go to visit, which I highly recommend, plan for the day tour. You can also get a photo package which gives you a ton of great photos!!

Amazing! I wasn't sure what to expect. I thought it may be a group thing where there was no real interaction with the animals, but I was definitely wrong. I was really pleased with the amount of interaction with the animals. I won't give a play-by-play of the experience because you need to go experience it for yourself, but I will say you will not be disappointed. Yes the ticket price seems high but I feel like I really got an opportunity to do something I would never be able to do on a multi-thousand safari. This will definitely be an annual birthday tradition. There are snacks and lunch throughout. The grounds are amazing. Don't be thrown off by the dung smell when you arrive...it's just bubbles fertilizing the fields. Only downside: There may be a couple parts of the safari that would be hard for someone to completely participate in if you have trouble sitting on the ground and there are a small flight of stairs to climb (less than 10 steps). Not sure if there was a ramp. The staff is very kind and a lot of fun. They take a ton of pictures of you and those are included in the ticket price - one note is the photos are of your group so if you also want individual pics there is an additional fee. We are doing the night safari in October 2023! Can't wait!

We were most fortunate to be introduced to the wonder that is Myrtle Beach Safari. We enjoyed both the Tiger Palace Overnight Stay and then the Chimpanzee Paint and Play the next day. Doc, Kody, Tila, Sarah, Rob, Alice and Rikki are not only wonderful hosts, they encourage questions and want guests to not only enjoy but also learn. All of the animals are part of an extended family. Our interactions with the animals, from feeding magnificent tigers, having a fun breakfast with Bubbles (elephant) to playing with chimpanzees, lemurs and wolf pups were, frankly, emotional. There was much more interaction beyond my short description above. It's just too much for words. In 24 hours our understanding of what the human/animal bond can be was absolutely expanded. When you look into the eyes of a chimpanzee you see understanding and emotion; it's truly moving. If you have the opportunity to visit this magical piece of the world do so.

So I have been trying to get in touch with this place for a month. I finally get through and this lady answers and I asked her if I could ask some questions. She did not want to be bothered. This happened at 8:15 on 7/24/2023. So who we was working there or answering phones were rude as anything. Then I ask her is this a bad time and she said, what can I help you with in a very rude manner. So I was asking questions and then she let out a si with her voice like I was bothering her again. My son has been asking me to go to this place for 3 months since we booked Myrtle beach from august 12 to the 19th. Now he will be heartbroken because of the way this lady treated me. How could anyone expect me to pay $389 per person, when they get treated like I just was. Absolutely terrible. Maybe someone can explain to me why this happens.

A wonderful experience for everyone! When I was gifted this experience from a family member I was so excited to go as I have heard of this safari tour before! Not only did I get to meet some amazing animals eye to eye, but I also got the chance to interact with them in a way that was so special and memorable! The staff - incredible! They're top notch and you could tell that these animals are their entire lives! A very family run preserve it's no secret that these animals have all the love they could possibly need and more! The way they love and interact with each other and the animals is worth seeing as well! It's just beautiful! Thank you! I've been on many animal adventures in the past, but nothing has been quite like this! I want to gush about all of the things that happened on the tour, but that would just not be fair to anyone who will be experiencing this safari for the first time! It's a must see/must do, and worth every dollar! (Plus not to mention all the things they do for animals all over the world!) Let them guide you through an exciting adventure that is sure to fill all your animal loving needs!

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The only thing more amazing than the... - Myrtle Beach Safari

• United States    
• South Carolina (SC)    
• Coastal South Carolina    
• Myrtle Beach    
• Myrtle Beach - Attractions    
• Myrtle Beach Safari

NO WORDS CAN EXPLAIN THIS AMAZING EXPERIENCE. DO IT IF YOU CAN !!!!!! MYRTLE BEACH SAFARI WILL... read more

Wow, I was so very impressed. The experience is a 10 out of 5 and the staff and more importantly... read more

The only thing more amazing than the animals was the people that live and work there.

This is a once in a lifetime type of experience. We couldn't decide so we did both the day and night tours. Yes, they are raising money. You do have to buy the picture packages if you want more than one 8x10. You also have to wait a bit in some areas to get pictures taken. BUT...you are waiting in line to hug an elephant or hold a baby tiger. Its not overly expensive and its my understanding that the money I paid is going to keep their facility running and to support wildlife projects around the world. I'm happy to pay a few hundred bucks for some great pictures when my money goes to buying drones to stop poachers in Africa. Doc Antle and his family are some incredible and selfless people. The world needs more people like them. Spend your money and take the tours. You won't regret it.

I am so glad that I bit the bullet and purchased the expensive yet once in a lifetime Safari experience. I was incredibly impressed by the group of individuals who truly devote their lives to these animals. I also loved hearing about the conservation efforts that they participate in abroad. The tour was extremely well run from start to finish. They anticipated guest needs so well and communicated clearly. The animal encounters were incredible. I learned so much and got to have experiences facilitated by the experts that are truly once in a lifetime! When else will I ever have the opportunity to see the molars of an elephant?! Truly truly truly fantastic. Its one of those things that you do, and then immediately want to call all of your friends and come back for a return visit to have the same experience with those you love. Until next time Myrtle Beach Safari!

OK...so this is a VERY expensive excursion, but so worth it. It is very well thought out, extremely organized, and the staff is very friendly. And while it's an extra $100, get the photo package. I mean, where else are you going to get the chance to have your picture taken with a tiger cub on your lap? They take a TON of pictures and you get access to all of them (plus a video), so it's definitely worth the price. This place is legit. They are all about conservation. National Geographic and Animal Planet have filmed at their location, so if you're thinking the animals are mistreated or exploited, that's not the case. Everyone clearly loves their jobs and the animals, so it's not like a typical private animal compound. You get the chance to interact with tiger and wolf cubs, monkeys, an elephant, and see even more. I highly recommend it.

Pretty amazing seeing tigers up close, and getting to pet baby tigers and wolf pups. Very expensive, and you don't get the pictures unless you pay extra. The annoying thing is that there were social media influencers next to my wife and myself that got to have their phones to take selfies for Instagram the whole time and they acted like Kim Kardashian. The Safari does include snacks and food, but as a type 1 diabetic I do have a gripe that none of it was sugar/carb free and they don't allow you to bring Insulin so I couldn't eat during the whole multiple hour adventure. I guess you could leave the insulin in your car, but if it is too hot out that could render your insulin worthless due to the heat, best to ask if you can store it in a fridge on site and have an employee guide you to it while everyone is eating pizza at the end.

Getting to see animals up close was amazing. They are clearly in great care compared to those in zoos and it's definitely a once in a life time opportunity. Not ideal for small children. Mostly a lot of standing around waiting for photos to be taken because you're not allowed to take your own, so the majority of the evening feels like a long photo shoot process. You don't get to touch most of the animals for very long, just long enough for a photo. And you don't get to keep the photos unless you pay additionally for a photo package.

This was an amazing experience. We had a lot of fun playing with the animals and the staff were all really nice. You get a lot of photos taken with the animals so to me it's worth paying the extra for the photo package. Thanks for the great memories

Myrtle Beach Safari

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Myrtle Beach Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Myrtle Beach Safari Prices: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re considering a visit to Myrtle Beach Safari but are wondering about the costs, you’ve come to the right place. In short, tickets range from around $79 for general admission up to $539 for special behind-the-scenes encounters and overnight stays.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide detailed pricing information on all the different Myrtle Beach Safari offerings, including general admission, add-on encounters like tiger walks and baby tiger playtime, behind-the-scenes photo opportunities, overnight accommodations, annual passes, and more.

We’ve broken things down clearly so you can figure out exactly which option best fits your budget and interests.

General Admission Tickets

Adult ticket prices.

General admission tickets for adults (ages 13 and up) to Myrtle Beach Safari start at $79 for a standard day pass. This gets you access to interactions and encounters with over 100 animal species, as well as shows and exhibits across the 60-acre preserve.

For $30 extra, you can upgrade to a trainer experience and get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to feed and play with baby tiger cubs or chimpanzees. This unique opportunity lets you see how the trainers care for these amazing animals up close.

Children’s Ticket Prices

Ticket prices for children (ages 4-12) are $20 cheaper than adult tickets. Kids can get a standard day pass for $59 , which still includes all exhibits, shows, and encounters across the safari.

Upgrades to a trainer experience with tiger cubs or baby chimps are also offered at $20 less than adult pricing. This discount makes it more affordable for families to create special memories.

Annual Passes

For guests wanting to visit Myrtle Beach Safari frequently, annual passes provide a 40% discount off daily ticket prices. An adult annual pass is $189 and a child’s is $149 .

With an annual pass, you get unlimited admission for a full year to see over 200 exotic animals. You also get free access to special events like the spring baby animal festival. It’s a wildlife lover’s dream!

Behind-the-Scenes Encounters & Tours

When visiting Myrtle Beach Safari, visitors have the unique opportunity to go beyond the typical zoo experience and participate in behind-the-scenes encounters and tours. These exclusive experiences allow guests to get up close and personal with some of the most magnificent creatures on the planet.

From walking alongside majestic tigers to playing with adorable baby tigers, there are a variety of unforgettable encounters to choose from.

Tiger Walks

One of the most exhilarating experiences offered at Myrtle Beach Safari is the Tiger Walk. During this encounter, visitors are able to walk alongside a trained handler and a magnificent tiger. Imagine the rush of being just a few feet away from one of nature’s most powerful predators!

As you stroll through the beautiful wildlife preserve, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the tiger’s natural behaviors and learn interesting facts about these incredible creatures. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk side by side with a tiger!

Baby Tiger Playtime

If you’re a fan of cute and cuddly creatures, the Baby Tiger Playtime experience is a must-do. This interactive encounter allows guests to spend time with adorable baby tigers and watch them play and explore their surroundings.

Under the guidance of experienced handlers, visitors can even pet and interact with these playful cubs. It’s a heartwarming experience that will leave you with lifelong memories and plenty of adorable photos to share with friends and family.

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the VIP Tours at Myrtle Beach Safari are the perfect choice. These exclusive tours offer a deeper insight into the world of wildlife conservation and provide a behind-the-scenes look at the care and training of the animals.

VIP guests will have the opportunity to interact with a variety of animals, including tigers, wolves, and elephants. This personalized tour is led by knowledgeable guides who will share fascinating information about each species and their conservation efforts.

For more information about Myrtle Beach Safari and to book your behind-the-scenes encounters and tours, visit their official website at www.myrtlebeachsafari.com . Don’t miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories and connect with nature in a truly unique way!

Overnight Accommodations

Lodge room rates.

For those looking for a comfortable and convenient overnight stay, Myrtle Beach Safari offers lodge rooms at affordable rates. The lodge rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, comfortable beds, and private bathrooms.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, there are options available to suit your needs. The lodge room rates start at $150 per night, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Glamping Tent Rates

If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous experience, why not try glamping at Myrtle Beach Safari? Glamping tents offer a blend of luxury and nature, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed tent.

The glamping tent rates start at $200 per night and include amenities such as comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and stunning views. It’s a perfect option for those seeking a one-of-a-kind experience during their stay.

Comparing lodge room rates and glamping tent rates, it’s clear that both options offer comfortable accommodations for overnight stays at Myrtle Beach Safari. While the lodge rooms are more affordable, the glamping tents provide a unique and unforgettable experience for those willing to splurge a little.

Whichever option you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time at this incredible destination.

For more information on lodge room rates and glamping tent rates, you can visit the official Myrtle Beach Safari website www.myrtlebeachsafari.com .

Photo Packages

For those looking for a quick and fun way to capture memories at the Myrtle Beach Safari, the selfie package is a great option. This package allows visitors to take their own photos with the amazing animals at the safari.

Whether it’s a selfie with a tiger, an elephant, or a monkey, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures. Don’t forget to smile and strike a pose!

Professional Photos

If you want high-quality, professionally taken photos to remember your experience at the Myrtle Beach Safari, the professional photo package is the perfect choice. Our team of skilled photographers will capture stunning shots of you and the animals in their natural habitat.

These photos can be a wonderful keepsake or even a great addition to your portfolio. Let our talented photographers capture your special moments at the safari.

Photography Tours

For photography enthusiasts or those looking to improve their photography skills, the photography tour package is an excellent option. Led by experienced wildlife photographers, these tours provide a unique opportunity to learn and capture amazing shots of the animals at the Myrtle Beach Safari.

You’ll be guided through the safari, learning about composition, lighting, and techniques to capture the perfect wildlife photograph. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this tour will leave you with stunning images and newfound knowledge.

It’s important to note that prices for the photo packages may vary, so it’s recommended to check the official Myrtle Beach Safari website for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, availability may be limited, so it’s advisable to book your photo package in advance to secure your spot.

For more information about the Myrtle Beach Safari and its photo packages, visit their official website: www.myrtlebeachsafari.com .

We hope this outline gives you a better sense of what a visit to Myrtle Beach Safari costs. As you can see, there are options ranging from affordable general admission to special splurge-worthy encounters. No matter what you choose, an unforgettable experience with exotic animals awaits.

Use the pricing details above to choose the ticket package that fits your budget. And don’t forget – advanced booking is highly recommended as many encounters do sell out, especially in peak season. Have a wonderful time exploring Myrtle Beach Safari!

Jennifer Morris is an avid solo travel adventurer who founded Solo Traveller after many years of journeying on her own around the world. She has backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents over the past decade, striking up conversations with locals along railway platforms, learning to cook regional dishes in home kitchens, and absorbing a global perspective while volunteering with various community initiatives.

With a Masters in Tourism and Hospitality, Jennifer is passionate about responsible and meaningful travel that fosters cultural exchange. Whether trekking through the Atlas Mountains, sailing to Komodo National Park, or taking an overnight train across Eastern Europe - she is always seeking her next epic destination.

When not globetrotting, Jennifer calls Vancouver, Canada home. There she enjoys kayaking local waters, curling up with books on faraway places, and gearing up for her next solo backpacking trip. As the founder of SoloTraveller, she hopes to motivate and inform fellow solo explorers from all walks of life to take the leap into their own adventures.

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An amazing experience! - Myrtle Beach Safari

• United States    
• South Carolina (SC)    
• Coastal South Carolina    
• Myrtle Beach    
• Myrtle Beach - Things to Do    
• Myrtle Beach Safari

NO WORDS CAN EXPLAIN THIS AMAZING EXPERIENCE. DO IT IF YOU CAN !!!!!! MYRTLE BEACH SAFARI WILL... read more

I can not exactly put into words my experience. I've waited a few years for this, and man, was I... read more

An amazing experience!

Wow, I was so very impressed. The experience is a 10 out of 5 and the staff and more importantly the family (many of Dr Antels family works directly with you and the animals) were amazing. They were funny, friendly and you can tell they adore those animals and the animals love them. We will be back for sure.

I can not exactly put into words my experience. I've waited a few years for this, and man, was I blown away. I will never look at a zoo the same. The staff was amazing, very informative, and friendly. I loved the way they love the animals, and the animals love them back. This experience was the best anniversary/birthday gift ever! Bubbles made my week! All of the animals did, but she melted my heart! That hug from the chimpanzee was much needed. We will definitely return for the night tour and, of course, a swim with bubbles. To the staff, keep up the amazing work. I wish I could give this tour a ten! We traveled with a toddler, and this trip is something she will remember forever! ❤️

For a close up exotic animal experience Myrtle Beach Safari can’t be beat. The staff is great and the variety of animals you get to interact with is amazing.

This was on my bucket list. I’m well aware of some misconceptions but I can tell you first hand these beautiful animals are well cared for by their respective, devoted ambassadors. The tour was like none other. Educational, fun, unexpected, and just all around amazing. The wonderful work MBS and RSF (Rare Species Fund) does far outweighs any sanctuary/preserve I’ve become familiar with. Dedicated to preservation of not just the animals, but environment and ecosystem. I highly recommend this to all ages. I would love to return someday. I can’t thank the entire staff (one even from New Bedford) including Doc himself for making this so special. This was the absolute best. Disney is wonderful but “ain’t nothing” compared to MBS. just do it. You won’t regret it. LOVE!

I had a lifelong dream of holding a chimpanzee so when I found this I was thrilled!!! I did a little bit of research and was very hesitant because there is a potential connection to the Tiger King series. I did some research and only found charges of illegal wildlife trafficking and money laundering against the owner, Doc Antle and nothing relating to animal cruelty. I was still hesitant but decided to go ahead and do it. The check in process was a bit strange but they did give you very specific and detailed instructions on the process. All of the staff members were amazing, knowledgeable and friendly. The facility was absolutely spotless both inside and outside. We were given two snacks and were fed lunch and the food was good. The experience was the most unbelievable thing I have ever experienced. I do not want to go into details because I don't want to ruin the magic of experiencing it for anyone but one of my lifelong dreams was definitely was reached and then some. I do wish that we would have been able to see the facility as a whole as well as the habitats/enclosures that the animals were in. I still have some hesitancy about animal cruelty and things like that and seeing those things would have made me much more comfortable with it. It would be very easy to just show off the good things and hide the others. I will say though that after being there, and seeing the animals and the interactions between them and the staff that I have a hard time believing anything you read about mistreatment of animals there (I did find some after I went of course). The animals we saw all seemed healthy and happy. The trainers seemed to be very in tune with the animals and when two of them became agitated the trainer did take them away which I believe was because the animal was not happy. You are given a lot of education on the different conservation efforts they are involved in and my plan is to research some of those. If they are all legit and the safari is truly involved in all of them I have a very hard time believing anything negative that you can find about it. At this point, it is what it is and I can't change that I went even if any of it is true but I would still like to know. If all of the animal mistreatment claims are in fact false then I have nothing but AMAZING things to say about this experience! It was worth EVERY SINGLE dollar and I want to go back and do the night safari as well!! I have to mention the mistreatment information only because I feel obligated on the chance that there is any validity to any of the things you might read, and I do still have some concerns/questions that will probably never be answered but I do NOT regret going at all and as I mentioned I would absolutely do it again!!! I have included some pictures to give you an idea of what you may get to experience (but they also make it very clear that you are not guaranteed any specific animal due to the specific needs of each one). For example, we did not get to be hands on with any lion or tiger cubs. This was not all we got to do/experience, this were pictures taken by the photographers there. The other things were not hands on and pictures were not taken but there were more surprises!!

We had a great experience during the actual walking safari tour and interaction with animals ...well done and well organized ! The reason for the three star rating is because the safar tour is 5 stay and the additional photo session is 1 star ( or 0 , if zero was an option ) I could not believe that for a photo session we signed up for with our 10 yr granddaughter that we were forced to either pay ANOTHER $100 for a grandparent to go back ( even tho we wanted no photos for the grandparent) ....or, send her into the compound and back tot he photo session ALONE !!! Given the reputation of the tiger king on recent documentaries....I would think you would do everything you can to NOT force 10 year old girls to be unaccompanied .

Myrtle Beach Safari

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Myrtle Beach Travel Guide: Is Myrtle Beach Worth the Hype? [2023]

· our answer to this question, plus what to know when planning your trip, including the best restaurants in myrtle beach & more ·.

For the earlier part of my life, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina was my family’s favorite vacation spot. We went almost every year to this gem on the Atlantic Ocean, and it seemed to get better each year. After not having been able to go for a decade, I was finally able to join my family down the coast once again this past summer.

Now, ten years later, is Myrtle Beach worth the hype? Is it worth going on a trip to Myrtle Beach? Keep reading to find out.

This post contains affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach

1. go to a myrtle beach pelicans game.

The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are the local minor league baseball team, and going to the games is always a blast. Being a single-A team, tickets are always dirt cheap; in fact, they’re sold at flat rates.

Depending on where you want to sit, you’ll pay anywhere from $11 to $15. $15 for seats behind home plate is a pretty good deal! The team is always fun to watch, as it really seeks to make games a fun experience for tourists.

Instead of a batboy, they have a bat-dog. They offer awesome promotions throughout the season, and the prices of food and drinks inside the stadium are low compared to a major league game. Spending a night at the ballpark is definitely one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach! For tickets, check out their website.

2. Walk Around Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach is a sprawling outdoor complex filled with stores, restaurants, and activities. From popular chains like Señor Frog’s and Margaritaville to local favorites like the Grumpy Monk , you’ll never run out of dining options here.

There are carnival rides, cool spots like Ripley’s Aquarium , and even a Dave & Buster’s arcade. In my opinion, the best time to visit Broadway at the Beach is right after dinner, when you can indulge in a sweet treat while you explore the area.

Be prepared to walk, because Broadway at the Beach is definitely expansive, but the wide range of things on offer definitely puts Broadway at the Beach on the list of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach. For a full list of restaurants and stores at Broadway at the Beach, check out their website .

3. Go Shopping at Barefoot Landing

Barefoot Landing is very similar to Broadway at the Beach, except it is a bit more relaxed and upscale. There are no amusement parks here, and the stores tend to be a bit more on the expensive side. This shopping community is located in North Myrtle Beach.

While this area is certainly kid-friendly, I’d call Barefoot Landing the Broadway at the Beach for adults. There are some fantastic restaurants here, some really nice boutique stores, and a stage that often has live music playing.

For a fun afternoon, grab some beers and play some cornhole at Crooked Hammock Brewery! For a full list of stores and restaurants in Barefoot Landing, check out their website.

4. Relax on the Beach

I mentioned earlier that I don’t think the actual beach at Myrtle Beach is anything special. I’d say it’s pretty comparable to the Jersey Shore, for reference. Whether you agree with this judgment or not, it doesn’t mean that you should avoid the beach on your Myrtle Beach vacation!

The beach here is still very enjoyable. In my opinion, one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach is to lay out and read a book or throw some football along the Myrtle Beach coastline. Our favorite spot is Surfside Beach because it is a bit quieter and more family-friendly.

The Myrtle Beach area covers a 60-mile stretch of beaches, meaning there is plenty of space for you to find a spot to hang out for the day! I personally love catching sunrises and sunsets on the beach, and at Myrtle Beach, the sunrise certainly doesn’t disappoint. Depending on where you’re staying, there may be a free shuttle offered to take you back and forth to the beach, too.

5. Enjoy a Nice Calabash Buffet (or Several)

One of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach is eating. When I say eat, I mean eat a lot . The food in Myrtle Beach is incredible, and the best way to enjoy the local Calabash food is by grabbing a table at a local seafood restaurant. For a few good ideas, check out the section on the best restaurants in Myrtle Beach below.

Being by the beach, seafood is definitely the best and most available kind of food you’ll find here. For many visitors, the Calabash food is actually the main draw to the area.

6. Play a Round of Golf

Myrtle Beach has a reputation as the Golf Capital of the World, and if you are a golfer, you will quickly understand why. Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular spots to go golfing in the United States due to its comfortable, sunny weather and affordable cost of living.

Many of the top golf courses in Myrtle Beach were designed by the esteemed golfer Jack Nicklaus, who is one of the biggest names in American golf.

The ocean view you can have while swinging your irons is unbeatable, and this is why the heart of the Grand Strand is absolutely loaded with great courses. Prices go way up during the high season, but you can find some really great deals on greens fees if you are willing to visit during the shoulder seasons.

If you aren’t great at real golf, there are countless miniature golf courses in the surrounding area that you can try out! Mini golf is always a great time when visiting a tourist town, and Myrtle Beach is filled with fun mini golf courses.

What Is Calabash Food?

Calabash is an extremely popular local style of seafood. This local style of cooking is named after the town of Calabash, which is a bit under an hour north of Myrtle Beach. Basically, Calabash-style seafood is lightly breaded, deep fried, very fresh seafood. It might not sound too special, but if you like seafood, it really is some of the best-fried food you’ll ever have.

The offerings range from shellfish like scallops and clams to fresh fish like cod and flounder, to hush puppies! Calabash food is traditionally found in giant Calabash buffets where you can try as much of everything that you want.

Best Places to Eat in Myrtle Beach

1. crabby mike’s.

Crabby Mike’s is easily one of our favorites and without a doubt belongs on any list of the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach. Like I said before, there’s no better way to eat Calabash food than at a buffet, and Crabby Mike’s is one of the best ones you’ll find.

One of the best parts about Crabby Mike’s is that they offer things that aren’t seafood in their buffet as well. Not everyone is a seafood fan, and they recognize that. This is a great place to go to suit the whole family!

2. The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood

It’s a tough call between Crabby Mike’s and the Original Benjamin’s when deciding which one tops this list. While Crabby Mike’s won out in our opinion, The Original Benjamin’s is still world-class. You can’t go wrong with either of these places! The Original Benjamin’s feels a touch fancier than Crabby Mike’s does, which is a nice thing if that’s what you’re looking for.

The food is incredible, the prices are extremely similar, and the range of Calabash dishes they offer is pretty expansive. I’m pretty sure that The Original Benjamin’s shows up on just about every list of the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach, and for good reason.

3. Captain Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood Buffet

Captain Benjamin’s is another classic Calabash seafood buffet in the Myrtle Beach area. We’ve always enjoyed it, but it is probably the least worthy of a spot on this list out of all the Calabash buffets we’ve listed. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with it – in fact, it’s really, really good!

It’s just that the other two are so good that this one doesn’t quite match up. Still, it absolutely belongs on this list of the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach.

4. The Grumpy Monk

The Grumpy Monk is a local chain with a few different locations throughout the Myrtle Beach area. This place is one of my favorites. It is much more of a bar-style restaurant and is probably best known for its expansive list of beers – especially local brews.

Even if you’re not a beer person, you’ll probably still love the Grumpy Monk! The food is really tasty and their menu is pretty diverse. This is a spot that you shouldn’t miss on your Myrtle Beach vacation.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

5. Carolina Roadhouse

If you’re looking for a break from the seafood and don’t feel like checking out the Grumpy Monk, make a reservation at Carolina Roadhouse . As one of the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach, this place is always very busy…but once you taste your food you’ll understand why.

While it is predominantly a steakhouse, Carolina Roadhouse has options that appeal to anyone and everyone. It’s not an especially fancy place, either, so you don’t need to worry about dressing up before dinner. If you want to make a reservation, just head to Opentable.com .

6. The Dead Dog Saloon

The name merits a little explanation. I’m not sure who came up with the slightly charming, fairly morbid idea of The Dead Dog Saloon , but essentially the restaurant’s defining quality is that its walls are lined with happy pictures of people’s dogs that have since passed away. It’s a weird concept, but at the end of the day, it’s a clever idea.

The food here is really good and they have a pretty extensive beer list, too. It skews toward pub food and is pretty fairly priced. After dinner, you can step outside and enjoy a great view of the inlet. The uniqueness of the idea is the main factor putting The Dead Dog Saloon on my list of the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach.

How to Get to Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is located in the northeast corner of South Carolina, which is about a third of the way up the East Coast from the tip of Florida. For many East Coast residents, driving to Myrtle Beach is definitely possible. As a kid, this is what my family always did.

For us, it was about a 10-hour drive, but it was easily the best option. Being a small airport, flights to Myrtle Beach were always exorbitantly expensive and driving enabled us to bring all of the beach essentials, like boogie boards, chairs, and a cooler.

If you’re not an East Coast resident, don’t worry! Over the past decade, Myrtle Beach has become increasingly popular. As a result, several airlines have opened up flight routes into Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) . If you’ve read some of my other posts, you probably know that I’m a budget airline fiend, and I fly on them every opportunity that I get.

Two airlines with a lot of routes into Myrtle Beach International Airport are Spirit and Allegiant. Honestly, I love them both. If you’ve heard bad things about budget airlines, are scared to fly on them, or are generally curious about why I love them so much, be sure to check out my tips for flying on budget airlines.

– R E A D –

How to Get Around Myrtle Beach

RENTAL CAR | BUS | UBER

Myrtle Beach is very spread out. I mentioned before that the area stretches over 60 miles from north to south. As a result, don’t bank on being able to walk from place to place.

Don’t bank on biking, either. Public transportation is definitely a solid option if you’re willing to wait on buses, as the Coast RTA bus network is pretty well connected.

However, I personally would only recommend this as a budget option. If you don’t want to shell out for a rental car or pay for several Ubers per day, this is your best bet.

If you’re looking for convenience, I definitely recommend renting a car or sticking to Uber. Uber is one of my favorite ways to get around when I travel, but if you’re staying at a resort it may just be more convenient to rent a car.

Being able to go where you want, when you want is definitely important when it comes to making your Myrtle Beach vacation relaxing. Like anywhere, you can rent a car directly from the airport. I’d make a reservation in advance, as there are sometimes not enough cars available!

Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?

Over the past several decades, Myrtle Beach has really become a hot spot for family vacations. What used to be just a small beach town has turned into one of the biggest beach destinations on the East Coast.

My dad once told me that he visited as a kid, and it was a village compared to what is is today. Major resorts have sprung up and the city has become one of the biggest economic centers of the Carolinas.

We visited one time just before the 4th of July, and locals told us that this small town of 33,000 people often hosts millions of people during the summer months. That’s just a little bit crazy.

So, is it worth going on a trip to Myrtle Beach? Is Myrtle Beach worth the hype? Apparently, millions of people would say yes. While I don’t think the actual beach is anything special, the city and all that the area offers are incredible. I would say yes, it absolutely is worth going on a trip to Myrtle Beach.

While the beach isn’t anything special, the amenities in the surrounding area are rather great.

While the beaches within the city limits are pretty average, the miles of beaches extending out into the surrounding areas from downtown Myrtle Beach are some truly beautiful beaches. On top of that, the countless nearby state parks, like the popular Myrtle Beach State Park, provide excellent opportunities for a nice walk just a short drive from the city.

From the stereotypical Myrtle Beach Boardwalk to the many water parks and world-class golf courses, Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to visit for family fun. While the beach is usually the main attraction, other entertainment venues like the Carolina Opry, Hollywood Wax Museum, Myrtle Waves Water Park, and Myrtle Beach Skywheel are all a few of the top things in the area that really make Myrtle Beach worth visiting.

Is Myrtle Beach Safe to Visit?

Many people hear mixed reviews about safety in Myrtle Beach. I want to set the record straight based on my own experiences. Simply put, Myrtle Beach is a safe place to go on vacation. There are very few issues at all in Myrtle Beach, and we’ve never experienced any reason to worry.

Like anywhere, take general precautions. If you don’t go looking for trouble, you have very little to worry about. Myrtle Beach is a very safe, family-friendly place to vacation. This is another reason that I think Myrtle Beach is worth the hype.

That’s all we have for you about Myrtle Beach! Hopefully, this post answered any questions you had about visiting South Carolina’s most popular beach. After reading this post, is Myrtle Beach worth the hype? I hope you think so!

So is Myrtle Worth the hype?? Comment your vote below !

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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This downtown Myrtle Beach Church is tearing down the building. Opening new parking

A pr. 8—As downtown Myrtle Beach needs more parking to address locals and visitors alike, one church is knocking down one of its old buildings and replacing it with a parking lot.

First United Methodist Church Administrator Greg Clemmons said the ground-level lot will have 70 parking spots. The church is replacing the former bus station on its property next to the Hair By Midtown barbershop, which Clemmons said had fallen into disrepair and had been empty since July 2023.

The building, which the church owns, according to Horry County Land Records, is having asbestos removed, but Clemmons said he wasn't sure when the church would finish the project. He also said the church is considering whether to make the lot paid or free parking.

Clemmons added that First United Methodist Church voted to tear down the former bus station and convert it into a parking lot in 1995, almost 30 years before.

"That building was in bad shape," Clemmons said. "(It) cost us more money than it was worth."

One possibility is that the church is considering making parking open to vacationers and other downtown visitors. Clemmons added that the church is in talks with the City of Myrtle Beach about letting it use the parking lot, although the two sides haven't reached a deal yet.

"We're a downtown church; we want to be part of the solution, not part of the problem," he said.

The new lot comes as Myrtle Beach currently faces a parking shortage, partly due to a lack of space that city officials acknowledge. Director of Public Information for the City of Myrtle Beach Mark Kruea said new parking is part of the ongoing Arts & Innovation District plan, which will be incorporated into some of the bigger buildings within the proposal.

Kruea also said the city is adding new spots at the intersection of Sixth Avenue North and Oak Street after completing infrastructure work within the area.

(c)2024 The Sun News (Myrtle Beach, S.C.) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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