Why Plan a Family Itinerary for North Myrtle Beach?
Family vacations are about more than just picking a destination, they’re about making memories together. A North Myrtle Beach family itinerary helps you plan days filled with fun and relaxation without stress. This coastal city offers everything from wide sandy beaches to wildlife parks, mini golf, live shows, and seafood dining. By staying with Sea Mountain Vacation Rentals, you’ll be close to all of it, with the space and comfort your family needs.
Day 1: Cherry Grove Beach, Parks, and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Morning
Start your trip with a peaceful morning at Cherry Grove Beach, where the waves are gentle and perfect for young swimmers. Kids can dig in the sand or collect seashells while you relax with a beach chair and a good book. Don’t forget to walk the Cherry Grove Pier, one of the most iconic spots in North Myrtle Beach. Here, you can fish, take family photos, or watch pelicans dive into the water.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Duffy Street Seafood Shack (202 Main St), a casual restaurant that serves fried shrimp, crab legs, and hush puppies. The lively atmosphere makes it a hit with kids. Afterward, take the family to McLean Park (93 Oak Dr), a shady park with a large playground, picnic shelters, and walking trails around a small pond. It’s a great place to relax before gearing up for an exciting evening.
Evening
Spend the evening at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, about a 20-minute drive from your rental. The boardwalk is full of arcades, street performers, and shops selling ice cream and funnel cakes. A must-do is the SkyWheel, where your family can enjoy sweeping ocean views from 200 feet in the air. For dinner, consider one of the boardwalk’s casual restaurants; places like Moe Moon’s or Pier House are great options for families.
Day 2: Wildlife Adventures, Barefoot Landing, and Pirates Voyage
Morning
Kick off your second day with a visit to Alligator Adventure (4604 Hwy 17 S). Kids will love seeing hundreds of alligators up close, along with turtles, exotic birds, and snakes. There are live shows throughout the day, including alligator feedings, which always amaze children.
Afternoon
Next, walk over to Barefoot Landing, a waterfront village filled with family-friendly shops and attractions. Stop into Sweet Molly’s Creamery for ice cream, pick up souvenirs at Barefoot General Store, and let the kids explore the small bridges and pathways around the lake. For lunch, head to LuLu’s North Myrtle Beach (4954 Hwy 17 S). Parents can relax with Southern favorites while kids enjoy the giant sandy play area and ropes course.
If your family loves the water, book an afternoon dolphin cruise from Little River. Boats take you into the Atlantic, where dolphins often swim alongside. Some cruises include pirate costumes and treasure hunts, making it an interactive adventure for children.
Evening
In the evening, make your way to Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show (8907 N Kings Hwy). Watch as pirates swing from ropes, engage in sword fights, and perform acrobatics while you enjoy a hearty four-course meal. The mix of stunts, music, and storytelling will keep kids and adults entertained from start to finish.
Day 3: Nature, Shark Wake Park, Mini Golf, and Waterfront Dining
Morning
Begin your final day with breakfast at Hoskins Restaurant (405 Main St). This family-owned diner has been serving locals and visitors since 1948. Try their fluffy pancakes, Southern-style omelets, or biscuits with gravy, all made fresh. After breakfast, visit Heritage Shores Nature Preserve (5611 Heritage Dr). This hidden gem features boardwalks that stretch into the salt marsh. Kids can spot fiddler crabs scurrying in the mud, fish swimming below, and a variety of coastal birds. It’s a relaxing and educational stop that connects your family with the natural beauty of the area.
Afternoon
For high-energy fun, head to Shark Wake Park (150 Citizens Cir, Little River). Older kids and teens will love the floating obstacle course with slides, climbing walls, and bouncing pads. If your children are younger, you can still enjoy the lakeside seating area while they play in the shallow zones. Another option is to play mini golf at Hawaiian Rumble (3210 Hwy 17 S), one of the most famous courses in the country. Surrounded by tropical landscaping and gentle Hawaiian music, it’s a fun way to spend the afternoon together.
Evening
Wrap up your trip with dinner at Greg Norman Australian Grille (4930 Hwy 17 S). Located right on the Intracoastal Waterway, it offers views of passing boats and a calm atmosphere. Parents can enjoy seafood or steak, while kids have their own menu with favorites like pasta and chicken tenders. Watching the sunset over the water makes this dinner a memorable end to your family vacation.
Where to Stay in North Myrtle Beach for Families
Choosing the right place to stay makes your vacation even smoother. Instead of a cramped hotel room, your family can enjoy more space, privacy, and convenience in a rental home. Sea Mountain Vacation Rentals offers properties with full kitchens, private pools, and plenty of room for kids to spread out. Many homes are steps from Cherry Grove Beach, so you can start your mornings on the sand and return easily for breaks throughout the day.
