Best Day Trips from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina offers a multitude of attractions and activities within the city itself. However, for those seeking adventures beyond the beach, there are numerous exciting day trip destinations nearby! Here are some top picks:

1. Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet)

Brookgreen Gardens is a National Historic Landmark Sculpture Garden and Wildlife Preserve located in Murrells Inlet, just south of Myrtle Beach. The gardens feature over 2,000 works of sculpture, as well as an extensive collection of Lowcountry plants and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, exhibitions, and educational programs.

2. Huntington Beach State Park (Murrells Inlet)

Huntington Beach State Park offers a unique blend of history, nature, and recreation. The park features Atalaya Castle, a Moorish-style winter home built by Archer M. Huntington and his wife Anna Hyatt Huntington. Visitors can explore the castle and its surrounding gardens, or enjoy beach access, birdwatching, and camping within the park.

3. Hobcawk Barony (Little River)

Hobcaw Barony is a 16,000-acre research reserve owned by the College of Charleston. Tours of this historic site offer insights into its ecological, cultural, and historical significance. The property was once home to noted conservationist Bernard Baruch, who used it for research and development of sustainable farming practices.

4. Myrtle Beach State Park (Myrtle Beach)

Located at the south end of Myrtle Beach, this state park offers a quieter beach experience, as well as picnic areas, fishing piers, and nature trails. It’s a great spot for families to enjoy a day together in a more low-key environment.

5. Cape Fear Riverboat (Wilmington, NC)

If you’re willing to make a slightly longer drive, consider taking a day trip to Wilmington, North Carolina. Here, you can embark on a journey aboard the Cape Fear Riverboat for a sightseeing cruise down the scenic Cape Fear River. The boat offers lunch and dinner cruises, as well as themed events throughout the year.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences that complement the coastal charm of Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re seeking history, nature, or adventure, there’s a day trip waiting for you just beyond the city limits!