08/01/2022One of the best things about visiting the Myrtle Beach area, or “The Grand Strand” as it’s known, is the flexibility this location allows for traveling to attractions in the surrounding areas. There’s so much to see and do in nearby Conway or Pawleys Island to get a local’s perspective, while other cities like Wilmington and Charleston are just under two hours away. Check out some of the top day trips from Myrtle Beach to experience local heritage, phenomenal eats, and immersive culture—all within driving distance of Sea Crest Resort!
Located about 20 minutes west of Myrtle Beach, Conway is a river town with many day trip attractions. It boasts seasonal festivals, college football games, and year-round shopping and dining all located in its lively waterfront district and downtown area.
335 Main St, Conway, SC 29526 | (843) 488-0821
This local performing arts theatre is the longest-running performing arts theater in the Grand Strand. Grab tickets to productions like Kinky Boots, The Bodyguard the Musical, and Matilda the Musical. Tickets can vary in pricing but begin at $28 per person.
540 University Blvd. Conway, SC 29526 | (843) 347-3161
During Autumn, a highlight in the Conway area is a Coastal Carolina Chanticleer football game. Other sporting events at Brooks Stadium include men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, softball, women’s lacrosse, and men’s and women’s soccer.
1111 3rd Ave, Conway, SC 29526 | (843) 248-3733
A contemporary twist on traditional Southern food can be found at Rivertown Bistro. Located in downtown Conway Rivertown Bistro is open for lunch and dinner daily with light fare including greens, sushi, sandwiches and seafood.
Slow down and enjoy a more relaxed pace with a day trip to Pawleys Island, located just 45 minutes south of Myrtle Beach. This charming seaside town does indeed have an island that offers a secluded beach for families and couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist season. The quaint area also offers some of the best local shopping and a delightful culinary scene with upscale flare!
10880 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
This eclectic shopping village features unique boutique-style shops, including The Original Hammock Shop, where you can buy a rope hammock handmade by locals. You can also check out Isle of Candles, La Tierra, Freckled Frog, and more during your visit.
10880 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585 | (843) 979-2747
Don’t let the size of this little restaurant fool you, it packs a savory bite! Located at The Hammock Shops Village, BisQit offers a mouth-watering menu with Southern favorites, loaded fries, and creative burgers, plus a kids’ menu to please any picky eater.
10434 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island, SC 29585 | (843) 237-3030
Frank’s is a top hidden gem in Pawleys Island, offering a posh dining experience for all with a menu handcrafted by their Executive Chef. For a more laid back dining option, opt for the Outback dining to be seated on a lush patio decorated in twinkle lights, greenery, and local entertainment.
Located on the south end of the Grand Strand, Georgetown is nearly an hour from Myrtle Beach, but is well worth the drive! This southern city offers a rich background and plenty to do for foodies and history buffs alike, with spectacular shopping offerings in the Waterfront District.
494 Hopsewee Rd, Georgetown, SC 29440 | (843) 546-7891
Enjoy a relaxing and educational plantation tour at Hopsewee Plantation, a restored home from the 1740s. Guests can tour the entire house from attic to cellar, take a sweetgrass basket weaving class, and even enjoy an afternoon lunch in true southern style at the River Oak Cottage. This is a popular location for weddings and events, so be sure to check the calendar prior to planning your visit.
1003 Front St, Georgetown, SC 29440 | (843) 546-7706
Step back in time in the Kaminski House Museum, a perfectly preserved reflection of Southern life in the 18th century. Experience the antiques, architecture, and unique souvenirs this charming museum has to offer. They are open daily until 5 .m., and offer tours at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.; the museum is closed on Sundays. Tour spots are limited: Call ahead to reserve your spot.
801 Front St, Georgetown, SC 29440 | (843) 527-4110
If you feel like taking in a gorgeous view while enjoying a bite to eat, the River Room is a great choice! This coastal restaurant has been serving lunch and dinner since 1984. Sample Southern favorites like Cajun Gumbo, Shrimp & Grits, and a variety of fresh seafood. The River Room is closed Sundays with split seatings for lunch and dinner.
Just more than two hours south of Myrtle Beach you’ll find one of the south’s most famous cities—Charleston. This Lowcountry classic locale offers several pristine beaches, a bustling downtown area, several family-friendly attractions, and a mouthwatering culinary scene.
188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
This historic market is a popular draw for visitors. The city market in Charleston is one of the oldest buildings in the area, established in the 1790s. The market spans four blocks and is filled with unique vendors that sell hand-weaved palm leaf baskets, jewelry, games, dolls, and so much more! There is truly something for everyone to enjoy at this southern staple.
4201 Spruill Ave North Charleston, SC 29405 | (843) 557-1405
This popular, family-friendly South Carolina distillery is located about 20 minutes outside of the historic city market. Here you can enjoy lemonade and sweet tea cocktails made with their signature spirits, or join them for a tasting to sample a flight. Saturdays feature local bites from food trucks, too.
1085 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403 | (843) 619-0202
Butcher & Bee is the perfect spot to grab a fresh, seasonal bite to eat. Their ever-changing menu rotates with the seasons as the chefs partner with local fishermen, ranchers, and farmers to provide the best of the best eats all year round. This James Beard nominated establishment is popular among visitors and locals, so reserve your table to get a spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
This charming city is an hour and a half day trip from Myrtle Beach, in North Carolina. With a robust offering of entertainment and attractions for families and couples. The Wilmington area boasts several quaint seaside towns and is known for being a top surfing spot along the East Coast.
814 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 798-4370
The oldest museum in the state is a Smithsonian Affiliate and an exciting attraction for the entire family! Cape Fear Museum offers permanent exhibits year-round, as well as new exhibits and events seasonally. Recent favorites included Dinosaur Discovery and the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11. Cape Fear Museum is open until 5 p.m. daily. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children.
310 Chestnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 632-2285
Another historic gem to enjoy during your day trip to Wilmington is Thalian Hall, the city hall and theatre. Visitors come from all over the country to view their productions and films like Pavarotti, Shakespeare In Love, and The Biggest Little Farm. Thalian Hall also offers 60-minute educational tours, or happy hour tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at this historic beauty.
300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403 | (910) 798-7700
Once a private garden created in 1884 and now open to the public, Airlie Gardens offers a breath of fresh air and beauty. Not only can you experience the unique gardens on the property, but they also offer a summer concert series, oyster roast, and a variety of nature-themed events. Advanced reservations are required for admission to the gardens and all events.
Proudly self-named “The Seafood Capital of the World,” Calabash, North Carolina is worth the 30-minute day trip from Myrtle Beach. Even though this town has a small population, it is packed with things to do, scenic waterway views, and is only about 35 minutes north of Myrtle Beach.
1045 River Road Calabash, NC 28467 | (910) 579-8888
For fine seafood and steak with a side of history, visit The Boundary House Restaurant in Calabash. Dating back to the 1700s, this North Carolina restaurant is serving up dinner and lunch alongside a pleasing kids’ menu for all to enjoy.
21 E. Second St, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469 | (910) 579-1016
The Museum of Coastal Carolina is an interactive, all-ages activity that is a quick 10-mile trip from Calabash. With informational lectures, hands-on learning opportunities, and a toddler area with puppets and a short film, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to stop by the Touch Tank to get an up-close look—and feel—of some of the Carolinas’ most beloved sea creatures, or visit the gift shop to pick up a souvenir.
380 Brunswick Drive NW, Calabash, NC 28467 | (910) 685-7979
Stretch your legs after a long day trip on the golf course. This beautiful resort features three different 9-hole courses so you can feel appropriately challenged. There’s a practice course for those getting started, plus a clubhouse and restaurant so you can relax after your round.
The trip from Myrtle Beach to Southport will take about an hour and a half, but brings a full day of things to do. This small town where the Cape Fear river meets the Atlantic Ocean boasts picturesque views everywhere you look. Stroll the tree-lined streets, enjoy historic sites, and indulge in fresh, delicious dining experiences.
101 Lighthouse Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461 | (910) 457-7481
The ferry to Bald Island leaves directly from Southport. Take a tour or rent a bike or golf cart to explore the island yourself. Climb 108 stairs to reach the top of Old Baldy Lighthouse - We promise the breathtaking view of Bald Head Island and the Cape Fear River estuary is worth every step! You can learn the detailed history of the island inside the lighthouse museum or visit the gift shop before heading home.
203 E. Bay Street, Southport, NC 28461 | (910) 457-7927
Take a tour of this historic building, originally built in 1749, and view historical artifacts on display. Fort Johnston served as an active-duty US fort for 250 years before being retired. From here, embark on an adventure at your own pace with a self-guided walking tour of Southport. You’ll quickly be transported back in time, with many homes and churches originating in the 1800s.
106 Yacht Basin Drive, Southport, NC 28461 | (910) 457-1881
Your day trip to Southport wouldn’t be complete without a stop into Fishy Fishy Cafe, one of many waterfront dining opportunities in Southport. A colorful interior complements the fresh and fried seafood selections for lunch or dinner. Watch the sunset from the deck or sit back and listen to the live entertainment indoors with a specialty cocktail.
This short day trip from Myrtle Beach is just 12 miles from Sea Crest Resort. Murrells Inlet is a half-mile stretch filled with places to eat, drink, or dance - a convenient place to spend the day or simply enjoy a quick bite. Stroll along the wooden boardwalk and enjoy nightly entertainment, specialty drinks and panoramic views of the water.
4031 Hwy. 17, Business Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 | (843) 651-2044
Goat watching while you’re in Murrells Inlet isn’t something you’ll want to miss. Sitting at Drunken Jack’s restaurant affords the view of Goat Island, a 20,000 square-foot island that’s inhabited with goats in the spring, summer, and fall. They are moved to the island to keep the grassland low so the view of the inlet isn’t obstructed, but these creatures attract just as many sightseers as the waterways themselves.
4123 U.S. 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 | (843) 651-9987
Refined waterfront dining awaits at Wicked Tuna. Feast on fresh seafood with their “hook to plate” philosophy and enjoy the views provided by the inlet. Many surf and turf specialties fill this menu, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
4042 Highway 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 | (843) 357-7777
Add adventure to your day trip from Myrtle Beach with a stop at Express Watersports. This jet ski and paddleboard rental shop offers everything a water lover could want, from parasailing to an ocean cruise.
Stretch your legs after the 1.5-hour scenic drive from Myrtle Beach by walking along the Florence trail system. You’ll see many attractions worth stopping at along the path to make your day trip from Myrtle Beach top-notch.
417 S Dargan Street Florence, SC 29501 | (843) 662-3731
Professional performances make this theatre’s productions a memorable reason to make a day trip from Myrtle Beach. There’s a selection of musicals and plays to choose from at this can’t-miss Florence Little Theatre to suit any tastes and all ages.
111 West Cheves Street, Florence, SC 29501 | (843) 676-1200
Discover where history and art intersect at the Florence County Museum. Proudly displaying artifacts of local historical and artistic heritage. The permanent art collections are Florence must-see attractions featuring accomplished 20th century artists. Open Monday through Saturday at 10 am; closed Sundays.
1301 Harry Byrd Hwy Darlington, SC 29532 | (866) 459-7223
If you’re in the Florence area on a weekday, stop in the raceway museum! Get a close-up look at the evolution of the sport with old and new race cars, engines, and historical facts. The rear of the building shares a space with the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame featuring NASCAR memorabilia of raceway icons. Catch a live race at the Darlington Raceway to get in on the adrenaline-pumping action.
A short 20-minute drive from Sea Crest in Myrtle Beach, Little River is the perfect getaway for a relaxing day trip. Celebrate seafood during its world famous Blue Crab Festival or ShrimpFest, take in the scenic views with a hike or seat on one of the many patios, and enjoy this town’s laidback atmosphere.
4474 Waterfront Ave., Little River, SC 29566 | (843) 280-2025
Open daily at 11 am, this waterfront dining spot is a favorite among Little River restaurants. The family-owned spot has been serving up locally caught grouper and deep-fried corn on the cob for more than 20 years. The casual atmosphere is welcoming and relaxing, and the waterfront views at Crab Catchers are stunning.
4468 Mineola Ave, Little River, SC 29566 | (843) 249-6604
If you’re vacationing in mid-May, be sure to time your day trip from Myrtle Beach to catch this yearly crab festival that’s always voted one of the best in the Grand Strand. Little River is a seafood mainstay and you’re sure to get your fill of fresh, local crabs while listening to live music and taking in the water views.
4468 Mineola Ave, Little River, SC 29566
Plan your visit in the fall to arrive during the two-day Little River ShrimpFest on October 8th and 9th. Listen to live music on two stages, shop the market with more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, plus dine on shrimp dishes prepared by many of the Little River restaurants. Stilt walkers and balloon artists entertain the entire family!
There are plenty of Myrtle Beach attractions open year-round to keep your family having fun all vacation long, but if you want to explore, these day trip ideas will make your Myrtle Beach experience spectacular. Book your stay at Sea Crest to be conveniently located in the vicinity of historic sites, stunning views, and lively dining options. Whether your accommodations are short or for an extended stay, there are plenty of near and far day trips from Myrtle Beach to suit any adventurous spirit.