For those looking to get back out and start traveling again, there are few places more picturesque than Myrtle Beach. With a 60-mile string of sandy beaches and Instagram-worthy ocean views – not to mention one of the country’s tallest Ferris wheels, SkyWheel Myrtle Beach – there’s something to do for every traveler.
But for those looking for a respite from the excitement of Myrtle Beach’s iconic boardwalk and beachfront, this uniquely American city has plenty more to offer. From exquisite gardens to castle tours, Myrtle Beach is teeming with secrets hidden around every corner. Whether you’re planning your agenda from scratch or just looking for a few activities to sprinkle in throughout your trip, this handy guide can help you explore all of Myrtle Beach’s best kept secrets like a true local.
Here are six hidden gems you won’t want to skip when you visit Myrtle Beach.
1. Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
Tucked away in an historic fishing village, the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is a half-mile stretch of boardwalk that winds through scenic marshlands. Following the beautiful saltwater estuary, the cool breeze and the warm salt air make this a must-see attraction for vacationers looking for some relaxation.
The MarshWalk also features year-round live music and delicious options for waterfront dining, so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing evening out.
2. Atalaya Castle
Tucked away in Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet is the beautiful Atalaya Castle. Built in the 1930s as the winter residence for famed sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington and her husband Archer, this Spanish and Moorish-inspired castle is a stunning example of Great Depression-era architecture. With a rich and varied history – it’s been a barracks, a studio, a state park and now a national landmark – there’s plenty to explore at this incredible estate.
3. Brookgreen Gardens
Just across the road from Atalaya Castle lies Brookgreen Gardens, a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve spanning 9,100 acres. This sprawling property, also founded by the Huntingtons, features the largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculpture in the country, self-guided wildlife tours and the Lowcountry Zoo which houses native animals like alligators, bald eagles and river otters.
For a relaxing afternoon, take a stroll among the towering oak trees and breathtaking fountains and view the sculptures from iconic artists like Augustus Saint-Gaudens and Janet Scudder.
4. Breweries and distilleries
If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to cool off and regroup, there’s no better place than one of Myrtle Beach’s local breweries and distilleries.
Local favorites include Tidal Creek Brewhouse, which offers a dog park and nightly events, and Crooked Hammock Brewery, where guests can enjoy an expansive backyard with games, waterfront views and an island gazebo bar.
With plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces available, there are many ways to enjoy these hidden gems.
5. Downtown Conway
Just a short drive outside Myrtle Beach lies the historic town of Conway. This quaint and charming area is perfect for an afternoon walk among the many murals painted throughout downtown. As one of the oldest towns in South Carolina, Conway is infused with American history – the City Hall building is even listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
While you’re there, be sure to take a stroll down the Riverwalk, a tranquil path along the famous blackwater Waccamaw River. Stop by one of the many restaurants along the trail for some unbeatable local flavor, or simply watch the boats drift by at the marina.
6. Natural beauty
The Myrtle Beach area is home to plenty of natural beauty, perfect for outdoorsy travelers looking to enjoy nature. Myrtle Beach State Park follows one mile of wooded coastline and features a nature trail, top-notch surf fishing, a fishing pier with an ice cream shop and a pristine beach. And for those looking to do a little camping, this is the ideal place to sleep under the stars.
Out on an island in the Cherry Grove Marsh, the Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is another opportunity for visitors to spend some time enjoying nature. With more than seven acres of walking paths and a vast array of flora and fauna, it’s a perfect spot to do some hiking or kayaking.
For those looking for a relaxing vacation, there’s no better place than Myrtle Beach. To learn more about Myrtle Beach’s hidden gems, or for a calendar of events, check out visitmyrtlebeach.com.
