Myrtle Beach is famous not only for its sunny shores and lively boardwalk but also for a variety of budget-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, Myrtle Beach offers numerous opportunities to explore without spending a dime.
Once you’ve booked your stay at Together Resorts, explore the wide range of things to do near the oceanfront in South Carolina. The Grand Strand certainly has some of the best free things to do in Myrtle Beach.
1. Dig Your Toes In the Sand
The most iconic low budget activity Myrtle Beach offers is the Grand Strand – a 60-mile stretch of soft beaches and peaceful waves splashing along the shoreline.
There are numerous access points where you can set up a blanket and picnic, build sandcastles, and take in the sun’s rays. This is the perfect all family activity with easy access and amenities like restaurants and shops not far to fuel and restock throughout the day. There is nothing to spend here except your time! A getaway here is a year-round opportunity for the whole family to enjoy the waterfront.
Some of the best beach day access areas include:
- Myrtle Beach State Park
- Springmaid Pier
- Apache Pier
- Huntington Beach State Park
- Garden City Beach
2. Explore Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk isn’t just a boardwalk along the waterfront but an area of shops, shows, entertainers, and lots of simple things to do. Just people-watching can be fun, as can simply taking in the sights and sounds along the boardwalk.
While you’re here, check out the fun activities to explore:
- Collect shells along the 1.2-mile beachfront area
- Window shop at the area boutiques
- Check out the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach
- Explore the seasonal free events
- Search for shark teeth or other fun things in the sand
3. Catch Live Music at Broadway at the Beach
Broadway at the Beach is a massive 350-acre outdoor entertainment center with something for just about everyone. There’s no admission into this space, and you don’t have to spend anything to take in the live music, capture the smells of cotton candy, or watch the animals.
However, the best experiences come from the Summer Nights Entertainment Series, where fire dancers, musicians, and perhaps a few themed actors may make appearances. This is family-friendly live entertainment at its best.
4. Head to the MarshWalk at Murrells Inlet
While technically a few miles to the south, Murrells Inlet is yet another fabulous way to spend time soaking up the sun. This historic fishing village has a half-mile wooden boardwalk that juts out into the saltwater estuary.
The views of the ocean and Myrtle Beach are amazing. If you’re planning a meal out, you’ll find plenty of goodies along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, and there are rumors that hushpuppies were perfected here.
From holiday events and light shows to the perfect area to see the area’s natural wildlife in its marshy goodness, Murrells Inlet often features live music and excellent access to the waterfront.
5. Discover Local Playgrounds with the Kids
When you want to burn off some sugar-infused energy, Myrtle Beach’s playgrounds are a simple, free experience that most kids will enjoy.
You’ll find free-to-use playgrounds throughout the city, most of which are well-maintained, shady, and super family-friendly. Some of the best locations include:
- Savannah’s Playground on Emmens Avenue
- McLean Park Playground in North Myrtle Beach
- Chapin Memorial Park Playground on 14th Avenue North
6. Smell the Fresh Pralines at Barefoot Landing
There’s no shortage of things to see at Barefoot Landing, a retail and entertainment destination just a few miles up the coast in North Myrtle Beach.
Numerous restaurants, a full theater, a beautiful carousel worth paying for, and a visitor’s center are located here. The entire area comprises boardwalks leading from one island to the next around a 27-acre lake.
You’ll have the opportunity to smell the fresh pralines being made, take in the free live entertainment and concerts, tempt your fate at the Alligator Adventure area, or let the kids have fun at the playground.
7. Do Some Window Shopping at The Market Common
The Market Common is right on Deville Street, providing a 114-acre expansive area with food, entertainment, music, and lots of shopping. If you decide to spend a bit, you can rent a bike, bowl a few games, or take in a show at the theater.
Parks and playgrounds help to make this a truly free experience, as do the holiday lights and festivals, including a farmer’s market during the warmer months.
You could try on your foodie hat and enjoy some tasty treats at some of the area’s best restaurants, or you could check out the social events at The Market Common to find out what fun activities are played during your stay.
8. Plan an Adventure at Myrtle Beach State Park
From the campground to the rustic beach areas, Myrtle Beach State Park is an ecological, natural, and beautiful place to explore.
There’s a fishing pier, hiking trails, and picnic areas to explore. With 312 acres and nearly 100 years of conservation history, this is a true treasure along the waterfront.
Consider some of the self-led activities at Myrtle Beach State Park, including the nature center scavenger hunt on the Sculptured Oak Nature Trail. A variety of programs are available during the year, but you can capture some birds with your camera or explore the geocaching in the area.
9. Take in History at the L.W. Paul Living History Farm
The L.W. Paul Living History Farm was established to preserve and protect the area’s history and culture. It is a hidden gem. It was active from 1900 to 1955 and is an interactive exploration of the area’s history.
Explore the exhibits here, including themed areas on sugar cane and blacksmithing. You’ll learn what a gristmill is and even explore what farm-to-table really means.
There are also farm animals to see and touch here, too.
10. Take the Kids to the Golf Course
Here’s an important note – none of the golf courses are free to everyone, but many of them allow the kids to play free if you sign up for a tee time. If you’re planning to golf anyway, check out these locations that offer free kids golf programs:
11. Take to the Intracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway in North Myrtle Beach has one of the richest ecosystems in the region. It also offers excellent seafood dining, small boat travel, and fabulous fishing holes.
If you already have a kayak, take it out into the water to explore the marshlands. You can also fish along the Little River area and Cherry Grove Fishing Pier.
If you’re lucky enough to rent a boat, you may also be able to see the marine life, including some dolphins who may guide you along the waterway. As you navigate the waterways, you’ll be able to see many of the area’s best amenities, from the Barefoot Landing area to the Heritage Shorts Nature Preserve.
12. Bring Your Dog to Explore Huntington Beach State Park
Huntington Beach State Park is well worth a visit if you’ve brought your best friend on four legs along. Dogs are allowed on the south end of the beach. This is also a great place to explore the deeply wooded trails with the whole family.
While you’re here, you can explore the Nature Center to learn about the bird and marine life here or check out the alligator exhibit. Surf fishing is another fun activity in the park, as is swimming, bird watching, and boating.
The Sandpiper Pond Trail is a beautiful area to hike, but if you’re looking for an interpretive trail, the Kerrigan Trail is a short, highly informative exploration of salt marshes and a freshwater lagoon.
Myrtle Beach on a Budget
If you have a limited budget but really want the full experience, there are a few must-experience activities here that won’t break the bank.
Catch live music as you make your way along Ocean Boulevard and listen to live music at the area’s various bars.
- Spend the day at Myrtle Waves Water Park. While there is an entrance fee – you’ll get a lot of bang for your buck with a variety of entertainment options included.
- Take a ferry ride to Pawleys Island and explore. The ferry tickets are reasonable and will cover a full-day outing!
Book Your Stay in Myrtle Beach
At Together Resorts, you’ll find a variety of beach accomodations perfect for family gatherings, a friends’ week away, or a company retreat while you explore all of the free things to do in Myrtle Beach!
