what to do in north myrtle beach
What To Do in North Myrtle Beach (Quick Scoop)
North Myrtle Beach is a laid‑back, family‑friendly slice of the Grand Strand with beaches, nature spots, live music, and classic coastal vibes all packed into a smaller, easier‑to-navigate area than Myrtle Beach itself.Beach Time & Iconic Piers
1. Cherry Grove Beach & Pier
This is one of the most popular and scenic areas in North Myrtle Beach, great if you want the classic “beach day” without overthinking it.
- Wide, clean shoreline that’s ideal for walking, shell hunting, or just sitting with a book.
- Cherry Grove Pier is a local landmark where you can stroll, watch anglers, or pay a small fee to fish.
- Sunrise here is especially good if you’re an early riser.
Mini-story: Picture starting your day barefoot on the sand, a coffee in hand, watching pelicans skim the waves while a few dedicated locals cast lines off the pier.
Nature Walks, Boardwalks & Quiet Spots
2. Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
A hidden‑feeling salt marsh preserve tucked near Cherry Grove.
- Boardwalk trails over the marsh with little offshoots and overlooks.
- Great for spotting birds, crabs, and occasionally dolphins in the waterway.
- Easy walking; good low‑key activity before or after beach time.
3. Vereen Memorial Gardens (short drive, big payoff)
Just over the state line in Little River, but feels like an escape from the crowds.
- Wooden boardwalks through marshes and along the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Peaceful trails, benches, and beautiful sunset views over the water.
- Good spot if you want nature photos without a big hike.
Free & Cheap Things To Do
If you’re budget‑minded, North Myrtle Beach actually has quite a bit that doesn’t require much spending.
- Stroll Cherry Grove Beach & Pier (free to walk, small fee to fish).
- Walk the boardwalk area at Barefoot Landing and people‑watch.
- Enjoy free outdoor concerts like “Music on Main” in summer.
- Visit local parks (like McLean Park) for playgrounds, picnic spots, and ponds.
- Explore the Little River waterfront and watch shrimp boats come in.
Live Music, Dancing & Night Atmosphere
4. Ocean Drive & Beach Music Scene
North Myrtle Beach is known as the home of the shag, South Carolina’s state dance.
- Clubs along Main Street (like classic shag clubs) play beach music and host dancers of all ages.
- Even if you don’t dance, watching the regulars glide around the floor is a very “only-here” experience.
- Summer evenings often bring a street‑festival vibe with people walking between bars, arcades, and ice cream shops.
Example: You might have a casual seafood dinner nearby, then wander into a club where couples in their 50s and 60s are out‑dancing everybody else on the floor.
Barefoot Landing & Entertainment Areas
5. Barefoot Landing
An open‑air complex built around a lake and boardwalks.
- Shops, casual to nicer restaurants, and snack spots.
- You can walk along the water, watch turtles and fish, and sometimes see live performers outside.
- It’s a good “evening stroll + dinner” destination, especially for families.
Nearby, you’ll find:
- Shows and theaters (music, variety, or tribute shows).
- Access to boat tours, water activities, and seasonal events.
Outdoor Activities & Adventures
6. Water & Boating
North Myrtle Beach offers more than just “sit on the sand.”
- Jet ski rentals, dolphin cruises, and pontoon boat rentals on the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Kayaking in the marsh for a quieter, nature‑focused way to see the area.
- Fishing from the shore, piers, or charter boats out of Little River.
7. Golf & Mini Golf
If you’re into golf (or just mini‑golf with kids):
- Dozens of full‑size courses nearby, ranging from budget‑friendly to more upscale.
- Mini‑golf courses with over‑the‑top themes that stay open into the evening—great after-dinner activity.
Family-Friendly Ideas
North Myrtle Beach skews very family‑oriented, especially compared with the busier, louder parts of Myrtle Beach.
- Beach and pool days at your resort/condo.
- Easy evening walks at Barefoot Landing or Main Street for ice cream and arcade games.
- Nature walks at Heritage Shores or Vereen Gardens for a calmer break from the crowds.
- Occasional kid‑friendly shows or live entertainment in the area.
Tip: Look for places to stay that have their own lazy river, splash pad, or planned kids’ activities so you have built‑in “things to do” without leaving the property.
Local Flavor: Food & Small Town Vibes
You’ll find everything from simple fried seafood to more refined spots. A few general patterns:
- Seafood shacks and waterfront restaurants around Little River if you want that “watch the boats, eat shrimp” vibe.
- Breakfast cafés and donut shops near the beach for early mornings.
- A handful of more local‑feeling restaurants in strip centers off the main tourist roads if you want fewer crowds.
Mini-scene: One evening might look like: a short drive to the Little River waterfront, dinner with fresh catch of the day, then a slow cruise back along Ocean Boulevard with the windows down and the ocean visible between buildings.
For History & Culture Lovers
- Small local museums give a snapshot of area history (fishing, hurricanes, development of the Grand Strand, etc.).
- Occasional local events and markets where you can buy crafts, jams, and local produce.
- The shag dance culture itself is a living “heritage” experience—great if you enjoy regional music and social dance scenes.
Pros & Cons vs. Myrtle Beach Proper
| Aspect | North Myrtle Beach | Myrtle Beach (main strip) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall vibe | More relaxed, family‑friendly, slightly quieter | Busier, louder, more nightlife and high‑energy |
| Best for | Families, couples, chill groups, nature lovers | Party‑oriented trips, thrill rides, big boardwalk feel |
| Things to do | Beaches, nature preserves, piers, music, casual entertainment | Amusement parks, bigger attractions, more bars and clubs |
| Traffic/crowds | Generally lighter, especially off peak | Heavier traffic and crowds, especially in summer |
Simple 2–3 Day Sample Plan
Day 1
- Morning: Beach time at Cherry Grove (swim, walk the pier).
- Afternoon: Relax at your pool or rental.
- Evening: Dinner at Barefoot Landing + stroll the boardwalk.
Day 2
- Morning: Heritage Shores or Vereen Memorial Gardens (easy nature walk).
- Afternoon: Mini‑golf or a short dolphin cruise/boat ride.
- Evening: Head to Main Street/Ocean Drive for beach music and shag dancing.
Day 3 (optional)
- Morning: Farmers market or local museum if open.
- Afternoon: Fishing (pier or inlet) or one more big beach session.
- Evening: Try a different local restaurant, then a sunset walk on the sand.
TL;DR (Quick Scoop)
If you’re wondering what to do in North Myrtle Beach , think: long,
walkable beaches; a classic pier; marsh trails and gardens; casual live music
and shag dancing; Barefoot Landing for evening wandering; easy family
activities like mini‑golf and boat rides; and plenty of opportunities to slow
down without being bored.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the
internet and portrayed here.
