The shoreline may be the star of every North Myrtle Beach vacation, but it’s far from the only way to spend a day here. Whether a storm’s brewing or you just need a break from the sun, you’ll find tons of exciting things to do beyond the beach on the Grand Strand’s north end.
From golf courses and wine tastings to souvenir shopping and spa treatments, this beach town has plenty to offer even when sand and surf aren’t on the schedule. Here are some of our favorite indoor activities and non-beach experiences to add to your NMB bucket list
From the Links to the Dance Floor in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach has been recognized as a premiere golf destination in the South for good reason. Tee off on beautifully maintained courses like Tidewater Golf Club or Azalea Sands Golf Club. Whether you’re looking for a championship-level game or a leisurely round, you’ll find a course to play. Or if you want something a little more laidback, there are plenty of minigolf options available. Try Hawaiian Rumble. It’s where the US Pro Mini Golf Association’s Masters Tournament is held every year!
If you would rather hit the dance floor instead of the greens, you can head to the legendary Fat Harold’s Beach Club for free weekly shag lessons. The shag has been South Carolina’s official state dance since the 1980s, but it’s been a part of the local culture for decades longer. You don’t need experience or a dance partner, just come ready for a good time!
Shop and Stroll Barefoot Landing
If retail therapy is calling your name, Barefoot Landing is the answer. Set along the Intracoastal Waterway, the self-contained village is a one-stop shop for some of the area’s most popular indoor activities, including shops, dining, and entertainment. It’s packed with national brands, specialty shops, and lots of places to grab a burger or dessert between strolls.
Deck your halls all year long with the collection at Christmas Mouse, browse beachwear and decor at Ron Jon Surf Shop, or stock up on high-end gifts and collectibles at The Mole Hole. And if purple is your thing, Purpleologist is a must-visit. Whether you’re hunting for gifts, catching a show, or taking a break from the sand, Barefoot Landing keeps the fun going.
Animal Encounters Off the Sand
Right next to Barefoot Landing, Alligator Adventure brings you into the wild without leaving the Grand Strand. As one of the country’s largest reptile parks, it’s home to more than 800 alligators and 230 other animal species, including crocodiles, snakes, hyenas, and llamas. Between April and October, you can even attend a live show and watch 15-foot alligators leap out of the water.
For a different kind of animal encounter, book a table at Joe’s Bar & Grill. The restaurant may be a longtime favorite for its tasty Lowcountry dishes, but the real stars of the show are outside. Their marsh-front patio overlooks a feeding platform where local raccoons line up for bread like a furry little fan club. Ask to sit outside so you can enjoy your prime rib or shrimp and grits while watching the raccoon dinner rush.
Sip and Savor the Flavors of North Myrtle Beach
If you’re craving some of the best seafood in North Myrtle Beach, Boardwalk Billy’s is a must. Set along the Intracoastal Waterway at Doc Holiday’s Marina, this spot captures the easy-going charm of Low Country dining. The peaceful waterfront views from the spacious deck give you a relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe. And the menu is just what you’d want, offering everything from crispy seafood baskets — like shrimp or a flavorful crab cake with fries, slaw, and hush puppies — to fresh sushi and sashimi. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a memorable meal with family or friends. Plus they have live music every night!
If breakfast is more your love language, Golden Griddle Pancake House keeps a long-standing NMB tradition alive. Dig into a fluffy pancake stack or signature omelet, or try the bestselling Big Dog Combo to sample a little bit of everything. Come find out why locals and visitors alike have been raving about this retro-style hotspot for generations.
Prefer pinot over pancakes? At Duplin Winery, you can taste Muscadine wines at the oldest (and largest) winery in the South. Try a tasting flight to discover new favorites, bottle your own keepsake wine, and unwind with live music on the sunny patio.
Find Your Zen Away From the Water
Looking for indoor activities in North Myrtle Beach that don’t feel like a backup plan? Trade your beach towel for a warm robe for the day at Cinzia Spa. Their 120-minute rituals take you on a full-body journey with hot oil massages, exfoliation, and Himalayan salt stones. After your treatment, relax in the meditation lounge or stretch your legs in the garden sanctuary.
And if your idea of a perfect beach vacation involves spending a day in your pajamas, North Myrtle Beach’s luxurious accommodations and vacation rentals make it easy. Consider booking a suite at Seaside Resort or Tilghman Beach & Golf Resort, where oceanfront balconies and sprawling apartments were made for lazy mornings watching the tide roll in.
Explore Indoor Activities and More Beyond the Beach
NMB’s beaches may typically get all the attention, but it’s often the experiences in between beach days that make a trip truly unforgettable. Whether you’re singing along at a dinner show, getting up close with alligators, or indulging in a spa day, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your time here without stepping foot onto the sand.
Mix a few of these indoor activities or non-beach attractions into your vacation plans, and you’ll see why so many visitors return year after year. Spoiler: It’s not just for the waves!