Myrtle Beach Itinerary for Kids: The Ultimate Adventure Day
Looking for a full day of kid-approved fun in Myrtle Beach? You're in the right place.
Known as one of the best family vacation destinations in the country, Myrtle Beach offers more than just a day at the beach. Of course, our 60 miles of sandy shoreline are always a hit, but there’s a whole world of adventure waiting just beyond the waves.
Whether your crew includes toddlers, energetic grade-schoolers, or teens looking for something cool to do, there's something here for everyone. You'll find everything from underwater tunnels filled with sea creatures and splash zones to wild mini-golf adventures, thrilling amusement rides, and even pirate-themed dinner shows.
Below, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite family-friendly experiences for a full day of fun, with options to fit your family’s interests, energy level, and budget.
Breakfast
Fuel up before the fun begins. Here are a few tasty spots worth checking out, choose one to get your day started!
Multiple Locations
With rainbow pancakes, bacon-stuffed waffles, and French toast galore, Johnny D’s is a breakfast paradise for kids and adults alike. You can find them all over the beach in Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach or North Myrtle Beach!
Myrtle Beach & North Myrtle Beach (Barefoot Landing)
This spot offers a cozy atmosphere with an upscale twist. Their kids’ menu includes fun-sized portions, and the adults will appreciate the elevated brunch options. One standout favorite for little ones? The chocolate chip pancakes with whipped cream and fresh berries. Try to snag a table on the patio.
One of the easiest ways to save a few bucks (and a little sanity) is by staying at a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast. Many family-friendly spots around Myrtle Beach include a solid breakfast spread with your stay. Places like Compass Cove, Captain’s Quarters Resort, and Anderson Ocean Club are all great options to start your day without the extra expense.
Morning
Once breakfast is done, it's time to burn off some energy with a morning adventure that sets the tone for the day.
Sometimes, simple is best. Build sandcastles, chase waves, or collect seashells. It's often less hot and less busy in the morning so getting your beach time in early makes sense. The beach is free, beautiful, and the perfect place to start your day.
Broadway at The Beach
Watch kids of all ages light up as they explore the underwater tunnel, pet stingrays, spot sharks swimming overhead and visit thew aquarium's latest residents — the sloths. For families planning to visit more than one attraction, consider purchasing a combo ticket that also grants access to other Ripley's favorites like Believe It or Not! Museum, the Illusion Lab, and Crazy Golf.
Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet
Brookgreen is an expansive garden and cultural center perfect morning outing. Let little legs roam through gorgeous gardens while parents enjoy the amazing collection of sculptures, then see animals up close at the Lowcountry Zoo. Older kids can take part in the “Zookeeper for a Day” program (ages 12+), while younger ones enjoy the wide-open spaces.
Lunch
Midday adventures can work up an appetite, so take a break to refuel with a kid-friendly meal (and maybe a treat for yourself too).
Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach
LuLu’s combines waterfront views with a laid-back vibe and tons of kid-friendly fun. The menu features great seafood baskets and coastal classics, and kids can run wild in the sandy play area while waiting for their meals. There's a water play area, ping pong tables, cornhole, a volleyball court and next door you'll find an adventure ropes course and arcade, all within one fun complex.
If your little ones love dinosaurs, this themed restaurant offers a prehistoric setting complete with animatronic creatures to keep lunchtime lively and adventurous. And the food also hits the spot with over-the-top options for parents like the Lava Mountain BBQ ribs, Pinosaur Chicken Skewers (served in a pineapple) and the 2 lb. Caveman Steak. It’s a fun stop for kids who want to dine with dinos, right in the heart of Myrtle Beach.
Broadway at The Beach
With foam parties, giant sand pits, an indoor slide, live entertainment, and a full menu of kid-friendly favorites, The Hangout is more than just a place to eat—it’s an experience. Parents can relax with burgers and seafood while kids dance, explore, and burn off some energy.
Afternoon
Whether your crew is ready for high-energy fun or looking for something a little more low-key, the afternoon offers plenty of options to fit your vibe.
Pick a theme and go! Try Jurassic Golf for dino-lovers or Jungle Safari for an epic putt-putt trek. Newer courses like PopStroke—designed in part by Tiger Woods—and Red Dragon Cove, with its immersive Asian fantasy theme, offer a fresh spin on the classic mini-golf experience. Want to try more than one? Follow the Myrtle Beach Mini Golf Trail and see how many of the 30+ courses your family can conquer.
Downtown Myrtle Beach
A great option for a slower-paced afternoon, the Boardwalk offers low-key entertainment and classic beach charm. Walk the oceanfront promenade, stop by the Fun Plaza arcade, or try your hand at casting a line from 14th Avenue Pier. Be sure to pop into the iconic Gay Dolphin Gift Cove—a multi-level maze of quirky souvenirs.
Myrtle Beach
Perfect for hot days. Myrtle Waves features dedicated play areas for younger kids, like Bubble Bay and Saturation Station, filled with mini slides, splash buckets, and interactive water features. Older kids and teens can test their courage on heart-pounding slides like the Riptide Rockets or the Turbo Twisters. Cabana rentals are available if you need a shady spot to relax between thrills.
Dinner
After a full day of play, relax and enjoy a family-friendly dinner at one of Myrtle Beach's more than 2,000 restaurants.
Myrtle Beach
A local staple for over 30 years, Thorny's Steakhouse is perfect for families thanks to its casual atmosphere, extensive kids' menu, and fun extras like the game room and arcade. Parents will appreciate the prime rib, steaks and ribs, while kids stay entertained and well-fed.
Myrtle Beach
Dinner and a swashbuckling show? Kids will be captivated by pirates, mermaids, and acrobatics while digging into a feast fit for first mates. Parents get to enjoy an all-in-one night out with a hands-on, pirate-style meal—no extra planning required.
Myrtle Beach
Known for its all-you-can-eat Italian buffet, friendly staff and the "Greatest Steaks in the Universe", Angelo’s is the perfect middle ground for kids who love to stuff themselves with pasta and parents who want a quality steak without a huge price tag.
Evening
Wind down the day with a memorable evening activity the whole family can enjoy.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
Soar above downtown in a climate-controlled gondola on the iconic SkyWheel, offering panoramic views of the coastline and city skyline. Sunset rides bathe the beach in golden light, while nighttime flights showcase a sparkling view of the Boardwalk lit up below—both unforgettable ways to cap off your adventure-filled day.
Myrtle Beach
From kiddie rides to classic thrills, this seaside park offers more than 35 attractions. Highlights include the historic Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster and the splashy log flume ride. Entry is free to explore the park, you just need to pay per ride or grab a wristband for all-you-can-ride fun. (Pro Tip: Buy Your ticket within an hour of park opening for big savings.)
Myrtle Beach
The Single-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans offer a classic ballpark experience. Game nights feature bounce houses, speed pitch games, fireworks, and kids running the bases. Check the schedule for themed nights and family meal deals.