I remember the first time visiting Myrtle Beach. I was about 22 and with a group of friends for bike week that year. But yea, that was when I could run free. A time when I could do all the fun things young adults do without a care in a world. With kids however, the agenda changes drastically. No more bar hopping, random motorcycle rides or ‘Girls gone wild’ activities (not that I’ve ever done any of those things anyway 😏). But no worries, turning Myrtle Beach into a family friendly vacation was just as fun! Here are the things we did, as well as a few added kid- friendly ideas….
Where we Stayed
First, let me start off by giving the deets on our Airbnb. We stayed at the River Retreat in Conway, SC. Roughly 20 minutes from Myrtle Beach and I absolutely loved everything about it. It wasn’t my first choice of accommodation, but in my last minute search, I’m so glad I stumbled across this place.
Amenities include: private outdoor pool, fire pit, washer & dryer, master bedroom Jacuzzi, private balconies and your own kayaks to be used on the lake! You are also provided with bookshelves full of reading materials and games (so you don’t have to worry about packing any of those things. All the games we brought with us, they already had). Oh, and let’s not forget the tremendously helpful host, Holly. Holly was amazing! She answered all of my questions immediately, all concerns attended to, and made us completely comfortable during our stay. She and her family reside in a private residence in the garage area of the home, but don’t let that change your mind! You’ll barely (if ever) see them and they do not invade your space at all! To be honest, you’ll probably forget they’re even there. And if anything happened to go wrong, you’ll literally have their assistance within minutes (not a bad, right?). Holly was also very accommodating with the check-in and checkout times, which was a huge help for us.
*Side notes:* There is a lot of wood , a lot of trees and a lot of bugs – so pack as much insect repellent as you can stand (they’ll also have a few cans available to you). Also, the path leading to the lake and kayaking area isn’t too well constructed. You’ll see that the steps are broken down and dock has loose boards. However, it didn’t at all stop my family from hopping in the kayaks! Even I sucked up enough courage to walk the length of it. Just be very careful and wear sneakers when doing so. And one last note, do some homework on when the currents are the strongest, as we had a bit of a struggle paddling against them.
All in all though, I loved my stay, and I’d stay here again in a heartbeat! I mean, the place is beautiful, and when you add that to the gracious service we’ve received, this is literally a gem of an accommodation. We swam, made s’mores on the fire pit, laughed, played games and created so many memories here that will stay with us forever! Give this home a try!
Things to Do
Go the Beach
The most obvious things to do…. Go the beach! We were only working on 3 days time, and although there is so much more to enjoy here, we had to make a stop at the beach. Kenzie turned into a Mermaid, we had relay races, jumped waves, ate lunch and just enjoyed each others company.
Despite how much being there drives me crazy (I absolutely can’t stand sand!), we always have the absolutely best family time.
Have Dinner at Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
The Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show is an absolute must when visiting Myrtle Beach with your family. Everything from the acrobatic performers, the super realistic set up including a replicated sea and pirate ships, the live animal act and the great food (especially the the soup and biscuits 😋), it’s a no brainer why people visit multiple times a year. You’ll enjoy cheering on opposing Pirate crews battling to find the hidden treasure. While at the same time, being mesmerized by magical mermaids, flying skeletons and so much more. This was the only other activity we did besides spending a day at the beach, and I’m happy that we got to experience it.
Tickets are about $73 per person once you include taxes. You are provided with a 4 course meal including unlimited soda and sweet tea (liquor is also available at separate cost, yay!). You’ll be given an opportunity to take pictures upon your arrival, that you can retrieve at the end of the show. Hosts will also walk around with souvenirs you can purchase using card or cash.
OTHER ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY
• The Barefoot Queen Riverboat Cruise
Another cool dining experience would be upon the Barefoot Queen Riverboat Cruise, where sightseeing and dinner collide. Barefoot landing houses a children’s playground and amphitheater that showcases family friendly events all year around, such as free food tasting and live music. There’s also Seasonal activities including Halloween themed events in the fall, and fireworks in the Summer.
Here, you can spend a day getting up close and personal with Tiger Cubs, a Liger, an elephant, Cheetahs, Apes and more! You could even swim with animals, get proposed to or married here!! This was originally on my agenda, but poor planning prevented it from happening. You must make reservations in advance, which I failed to do (oops). Also, keep in mind, an experience such as this comes with a price. The cheapest package offered is around $500 per person, where the most expensive package could run you somewhere around $800 per person or more, just for general tours (be sure to double check exact pricing on their website).
I’ve done a lot of daring things in my life, but I’m not too sure I would ever want to get up close and personal with Alligators and venomous snakes. Here, you’d do just that. Watch the pro’s during live feeding, including that of “Utan” the largest Croc in the world! You’ll also be able to spot and learn about wildlife such as Hyenas, Bobcats, Mountain Lions and Turtles.
Just like any other large aquarium, here you could expect to see almost every living creature under the sea! As well as experience diving with sharks, a glass bottom boat adventure and so much more.
• Golfing
Mini golf used to be a hobby for my oldest daughter and I. We haven’t done it recently, but I could imagine that we’d still love it as much as we used to. If you and your family are into golfing, and there are quite a few locations here for you to try out.
• Charles Bach Comedy and Magic Show
Who doesn’t love a good magic show? Especially when tasked with entertaining children, this is something they’re sure to enjoy. Charles Bach is known for his grand illusion and magic acts, filled with color and comedy. This was yet another activity on my list that, unfortunately, we missed out on.
A huge 20,000 square foot arcade, also offering go-karts, mini golf and rock climbing!
Because, anything involving Dolphins are always a good idea.
Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odd- Itorium
Ever wanted to see a six – legged cow, shrunken heads or maybe some other bizarre mystery? Ripley’s Believe it or Not has never ceased to amaze up with it’s unbelievable displays. So go ahead, grab the kids and spend the day being amazed.
If your into thrilling activities like I am, this is the place for you. One thing about ziplining, it never goes out of style. Here, you can experience over 50 elements and even do their extereme ziplines, perfect for yourself or older children. Are you up for the challenge?
Amusement park with over 35 rides, including water slides and rollercoasters, for the whole family to enjoy.
Circus’ are always entertaining. One can never get tired of the acrobatic acts, daring stunts and
Fishing has long been an all time favorite for many families. Here, you’ll be in the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean catching a wide assortment of all types of fish! You even have the option to go shark fishing. How fun?!
Get up close and personal with your favorite celebs! Ever wanted to walk the red carpet and meet some of y0ur favorite Movie Stars or Muscians? Well, here’s your chance. So what if they’re just wax figures, right?
Here, you’ll cover about 9,000 acres of animal enclosures, butterfly houses, hidden pathways and so much more! You’ll even learn about the rice plantations and enslaved African workers of the 1800s. Pretty cool huh?
If you or your children like Pirates, this one is for you! Right after getting your curly mustache and anchor tattoo, you’ll go for the ride of a lifetime upon the Sea Gypsy, in search of the missing treasure. But be sure to use the loaded water canons to defeat they enemies you may face along the way! You’re guaranteed to have the ultimate Pirate adventure.
Your kids will enjoy Astronaut training, making life sized bubbles in their infamous bubble lab and experience the thrilling glow in the dark ropes course at the 50,000 square foot science themed amusement park! Wonderworks is both educational and entertaining. So not only will they have fun, but you’ll be glad the kiddos are learning a few in process.
• Wildwater and Wheels Water Park
Water slides, mini golf, go carts and and amusement rides. What more does your family need to have fun?
• Riddles Escpae Room & Backstage Escape Games
If your family is into the challenge of solving riddles and puzzles or finding clues in order to beat the clock, then these escape rooms are the perfect activity for you. Get your adrenaline going with these escape games! Can you beat the time?
Enjoy the sights of the beach 187 ft above ground in these spacious gondolas (up to 6 people can fit). I hope you aren’t afraid of heights.
Oh, how I love Laser Tag! It might be my love for guns, but something about playing laser tag just gets me all excited inside. Especially perfect for teens, this activity puts you through a battlefield of obstacles in a action packed fun. Each game lasts around 30mins.
Have a kid interested in learning to surf or would like to brush up on his skills? Kokopelli Surf Camp offers classes and guarantees to have you surfing in no time. You can also choose to go kayaking or paddleboarding if that’s more your “wave” (get it?).
If you’re into Broadway type shows or engaging dance and vocal performances, this is the place for you.
Bowling is always a good idea, no matter where you are. Relax, have fun and grab a bite to eat and get some friendly competition going.
• I Love Sugar , Sugar Kingdom & It’s Sugar
Ahhhh, candy! Myrtle Beach has 3 distinct candy stores in the area, and you’ll need to make it to one (or all 3 🤪) in order for them to build up enough energy to get through all the activities you have for them. Shop your way through candy bars, giant lollipops and gummibears and even sip on a Candy Martini over at I Love Sugar. You’re on vacation, you deserve a sugar rush!
Have you been to Myrtle Beach with your family lately? What activities did you enjoy? What activities did I miss? Let’s chat!
Don’t forget to check out HeadSlay.com for the latest in accessories!
XO,
LEXI 💋
