If you’re heading to North Myrtle Beach, one stop you absolutely can’t miss is Barefoot Landing. This fun place isn’t just somewhere to shopāit’s a full-blown destination that invites you to eat, relax, and discover the very best of the Grand Strand. Nestled along the Intracoastal Waterway, it combines the laid-back charm of the coast with the buzz of an open-air entertainment complex. You’ll find natural beauty all around, plus a mix of vibrant dining and entertainment that fits any day out.
From top-tier restaurants and shows to boutique stores and family-friendly attractions, Barefoot Landing is one of the most popular and special places to spend a day on the Strand. You’ll find everything in one picturesque spot: entertainment, craft shops, adventure, and live music, all wrapped in Southern charm.
What Makes Barefoot Landing Special?
Barefoot Landing is a vibrant complex built like a coastal village, with scenic walkways that surround a beautiful lake. As you stroll across the boardwalk, you’ll see ducks, turtles, and even fish swimming below. There’s something for everyone, from classic souvenir shops to wine tastings and Greg Norman’s upscale restaurant.
You can also easily access other great spots like Alligator Adventure and the House of Blues, which means you can catch a show, dine with a view, and explore exhibits all in a single visit.
š Ā Sea Mountain Vacations Rental Property near this place:
When’s the Best Time To Go?
The best time to visit Barefoot Landing is in the late afternoon or early evening to discover the scenic beauty of this area. That way, you can enjoy shopping, eat dinner with sunset views, and catch live music or fireworks later in the night. If you’re traveling in the summer, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Best Things To Do at Barefoot Landing
There’s no shortage of things to do when you visit Barefoot Landing. From shopping and dining to live shows and wildlife encounters, this entertainment complex has something for everyone, whether you’re here for fun, food, or just soaking in the view by the Intracoastal Waterway.
1. Shop at Unique Boutiques Around the Boardwalk
If you like finding cool things while you’re on vacation, Barefoot Landing is one of the best places to shop in North Myrtle Beach. It has a mix of popular national stores and small local craft shops, all along a sunny wooden boardwalk next to a calm lake. Here’s one shop you should check out:
- Ron Jon Surf Shop ā This is a great place to grab beach stuff like surfboards, swimsuits, flip-flops, and hoodies. If you forgot anything or want a fun souvenir, this store has what you need.
- Savannah Bee Company- You can sample honey right at the counter and explore their line of natural beauty products like lotions, soaps, and balmsāall made with real honey.
- Tiki Jim’s- This shop is known for its funny T-shirts, beach signs, and playful souvenirs. It’s a fun stop if you’re looking for gifts or something to make you laugh.
- Earthbound Trading Co.- An excellent spot for boho-style clothing, incense, crystals, and home dĆ©cor with a global feel. If you’re into earthy, artsy items, this one stands out.
What makes shopping here even better is the pace. You’re never in a rush. Take your time, enjoy the relaxed village vibe, and stop for a snack or cold drink between shops.
2. Dine with a View at Scenic Waterfront Restaurants
One of the best things about Barefoot Landing is the food. There are lots of places to eat and enjoy entertainment, so no matter who you’re with, your partner, your friends, or your family, you’ll find something you like. Many restaurants are right by the Intracoastal Waterway, so you can enjoy a nice view while you eat. Here are few popular restaurants you can check out:
- Greg Norman’s Australian Grille-Ā This spot is perfect if you prefer a quiet place to dine with your family. This place has a beautiful patio with large windows and outdoor tables that face the water.Ā You can easily watch boats pass by while enjoying a steak, fresh seafood, or a glass of wine. The cozy lighting, open-air views, and quiet setting make it perfect for a relaxing date night or special dinner.
- Lulu’s North Myrtle Beach –Ā This is a fun andĀ family-friendly place where everyone feels welcome. It features colorful dĆ©cor, live music, and a largeĀ sandy play area whereĀ kids can play while adults enjoy their meal. This place is perfectĀ for your family.
- Taco Mundo Kitchen y Cantina- It’s known for its tacos, nachos, and strong margaritas. The patio sits right by the water, with colorful chairs, string lights, and music playing in the background. It’s a great place to soak up the sun, watch the boats, and enjoy a fun meal with friends or family.
Whether you want a fast brunch, a long lunch, or a quiet dinner at sunset, there’s something tasty waiting for you.
3. Catch a Live Show or Concert for a Night of Entertainment
After a day of shopping and eating, you don’t have to go far to find something fun to do. Barefoot Landing has live entertainment right there. The House of Blues is one of the best places for music on the Grand Strand, with concerts from rock bands, country singers, and tribute shows. If you like live music, it’s a great way to spend your night.
Just a short walk away, the Alabama Theatre offers big stage productions, comedy shows, and musical events for all ages. During the summer, you’ll also find outdoor events with free concerts and fireworks around the lake. It’s easy to find something exciting happening every night.
4. Visit Alligator Adventure for a Wild Experience
Alligator Adventure is one of the most famous attractions at Barefoot Landing. Located right next to the main shopping area, it’s a full wildlife park known for its variety of reptiles and other animals. Here, you’ll see live alligators, snakes, turtles, and even rare white alligators. They also have shows every day where animal experts talk about the animals and answer questions. It’s fun to watch, and you learn something, too.
Upcoming Events and Seasonal Activities
No matter when you visit, thereās always something fun happening at Barefoot Landing. They always host seasonal events that are perfect for both adults and kids. These events make your trip even more special, whether youāre visiting in summer, fall, or winter. Here are some of the top events to look out for for a more fantastic and unforgettable holiday in North Myrtle Beach:
- SummerFest (Summer)- Every summer, Barefoot Landing comes to life with SummerFest. You can enjoy outdoor shows, fun activities for families, and weekly fireworks over the lake. Itās a great time to visit if you enjoy warm nights, entertainment, and a lively atmosphere.
- Trick-or-Treat Event (Fall) – In October, Barefoot Landing hosts a safe Halloween event where kids can wear costumes and go store to store collecting candy. Many of the shops take part, and families enjoy the fun atmosphere. There may also be games, music, and other fall-themed activities for kids of all ages.
- Lighting of the Landing (Winter) – This event kicks off during the holiday season with beautiful Christmas lights, festive decorations, and live music. There are often visits from Santa and other kid-friendly activities.
There are also smaller events throughout the year that are kid-friendly, like craft fairs, food tastings, and pet days, that make every visit a little different. Before you go, it’s a good idea to check theĀ event calendar online. That way, you can plan your visit around something special happening during your stay.
How to Get There and Where to Park
š 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
š Most shops open from 10 AM to 9 PM; restaurant and entertainment hours vary
š Free parking is available, and it’s pretty easy to find even on busy weekends
The area is walkable and close to many vacation rentals, especially those in Windy Hill Beach or Barefoot Resort, so you can even ride your bike or stroll over.
Why You Should Stay Nearby Barefoot Landing
Staying near Barefoot Landing means easy access to one of the best all-in-one things to do in North Myrtle Beach. You’ll be able to:
- Walk to restaurants and shops
- Catch sunset views and evening concerts
- Save time on driving or parking
- Be close to the beach, too!
When you book one of our vacation rentals in North Myrtle Beach, we’ll even include a local guide to help you make the most of your stay, starting with a fun day at Barefoot Landing.
