Affordable & Free Things To Do in North Myrtle Beach

The best part of North Myrtle Beach is right in the name — the beach! With nine miles of pristine coastline, you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, shell hunting or simply strolling along the Atlantic shore. It’s open 24/7 and always free. Pack your beach towels, snacks and sunscreen, and you’re off to a great start. Don’t forget to catch the fantastic sunrises and sunsets.

Free live music in North Myrtle Beach is very easy to come by. Our restaurants and bars offer fantastic live music year-round, as the Grand Strand is a haven for great musicians. During the summer, the city offers its Thursday evening Music on Main concert series, which features some of the best local music around. There are also free concerts at the Sounds of Summer series at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex.

Dancing is free wherever the spirit moves you, and you can learn how to do the shag, the South Carolina state dance, with free shag lessons at Fat Harold’s Beach Club every Tuesday at 7 p.m.

North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex

North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex is a sprawling 160-acre park offering walking trails, playgrounds, picnic shelters and even a dog park. It’s a stellar pick for families looking for affordable family activities and open-air fun at essentially no cost.

Shark Wake Park

Located within the Sports Complex, Shark Wake Park offers thrilling water activities for the adventurous traveler during the summer season. While wakeboarding and the floating obstacle course have fees, they do have early-bird and twilight passes that make it affordable. Plus, spectators can enjoy the action for free from the viewing areas.

McLean Park

For a fun night with the kids, plan a visit to McLean Park for Movies at McLean, a free movie night monthly from May to October. The movies take place on the second Friday of each month and feature family-friendly films just steps from the heart of Main Street. Be sure to bring your blanket or beach chairs and unwind in the field in front of the enlarged blow-up screen. Popcorn and concessions will be available for purchase.

Cherry Grove Pier

There’s only a small fee of $3.00 to walk out on the historic Cherry Grove Pier, a landmark in North Myrtle Beach. The pier is an excellent spot for casting a line. It’s also a fantastic place for photography, offering stunning views of the coastline and the ocean.

Heritage Shores Nature Preserve

For nature lovers, the Heritage Shores Nature Preserve offers an escape into the natural beauty of North Myrtle Beach. Admission is free to this 7-acre preserve, featuring walking trails, boardwalks and observation decks that provide stunning views of the salt marsh and its wildlife. It’s a peaceful spot for birdwatching, photography, fishing, kayaking or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens

Nearby Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens is another must-visit for those who appreciate the great outdoors. This beautiful garden spans over 114 acres and includes walking trails, scenic overlooks and historical markers. The gardens offer a mix of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a fascinating place to enjoy.

Barefoot Landing is a must-visit destination that blends shopping, dining and entertainment along the Intracoastal Waterway. Window shop through charming boutiques, enjoy free live music at the amphitheater or stroll the boardwalks at sunset. While some attractions have fees, you’ll find plenty of affordable family activities and photo ops that cost nothing at all.

History lovers will enjoy the free North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum, where you can explore our past through its collection of artifacts, photographs and more, all displayed in exciting and immersive exhibits.

North Myrtle Beach is known for its vibrant community events, many of which are free! Seasonal festivals like the Irish Italian International Festival and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival offer live music, vendors and family-friendly fun without an entry fee.

Wondering about free things to do in North Myrtle Beach in December? This time of year, North Myrtle Beach shines with holiday spirit! Visit the Great Christmas Light Show at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex — where admission is by the car, not by the person — catch festive parades or enjoy tree lighting ceremonies. Many local businesses and parks host free holiday events, making it easy to celebrate without overspending.

Be sure to check our Events Calendar for more free events in North Myrtle Beach when planning a visit.

Everyone loves a good deal, and North Myrtle Beach has plenty of them if you know where to look! Mini golf is one of our most popular pastimes, but did you know that if you play earlier in the day, courses like Hawaiian Rumble and Aloha Mini Golf offer a discount before 5 P.M.? Similarly, seafood buffet restaurants like Giant Crab and Captain Jack’s offer discounts based on your dining time. The earlier you eat, the more money stays in your wallet!

Duplin Winery is one of the best deals along the Grand Strand. Their deluxe wine tasting is just $20 and includes 10 tastings, gourmet cheese dip with homemade crackers, and a glass of your favorite wine to enjoy on their wrap-around porch. 

Many attractions, restaurants and accommodations proudly offer military discounts, and if you’re traveling with a large party, be sure to inquire about group rates. For more savings, order a free copy of the North Myrtle Beach Official Visitors Guide, which includes local tips, coupons and more. You'll also find great savings in free publications like the Monster Coupon Book, which you can order in advance, or pick up a copy plus many more in our Visitor Information Center.

No matter your budget, North Myrtle Beach is the place to be!