Sun, Sand, and Savings: Free (or Almost Free) things to Do in Myrtle Beach
- Rachel Garretson
- Feb 24
- 4 min read
Let’s be real, y’all, vacations can drain your wallet faster than sweet tea disappears on a hot Carolina day. But guess what? Myrtle Beach is packed with free (or close to it) activities that’ll keep the whole family entertained without breaking the bank. Whether you’re in the mood for sandy toes, live tunes, or a little history lesson, we’ve got you covered. So grab your flip flops and let’s dive into some budget friendly fun!
Sun, Sand, and Coastal Wandering
Myrtle Beach Public Beaches
Listen, there’s a reason folks come from all over to sink their toes into our sand. Whether you’re chasing the perfect sunrise, splashing with the kids, or just soaking up that Carolina sunshine, the beach is the ultimate freebie. Pro tip? Head out early in the morning for the best shell hunting, especially after a storm!
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
If you love a good sunset (and who doesn’t?), this waterfront boardwalk is must. It’s free, it’s gorgeous, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a dolphin or two playing in the inlet. Bonus: there’s usually live music floating through the air from the nearby restaurants, so its like getting a free concert with your nature walk.
Parks, Trails & a Breath of Fresh Air
Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens (Little River)
This place is one of the best kept secrets on the Grand Strand. Think Spanish moss draped trees, wooden boardwalks over salt marshes, and trails perfect for stretching your legs. Bring a camera, this spot is straight up postcard worthy!
Pawleys Island Nature Park
A quiet little spot where the only soundtrack is the rustling of palmetto trees and the occasional bird call. If you need a breather from the beach crowds, this is where you’ll find it.
Free Museums & Historic Stops
Horry County Museum (Conway, SC)
It’s free, it’s fascinating, and it’s got an aquarium inside, what’s not to love? Dive into local history with exhibits on Native American culture, the Lowcountry’s past, and even some fascinating natural history.
Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum
Set in a historic beach house, this free museum showcases rotating exhibits of stunning artwork. Donations are appreciated, but not required. So soak up some culture without spending a dime!
Warbird Park
If you’ve got a history buff (or aviation fan) in the family, make a stop at Warbird Park near the airport. This open air museum features retired military aircraft and pays tribute to Myrtle Beach’s Air Force history.
LW Paul Living History Farm
Step back in time and see what farm life was like in the early 1900s. There are often demonstrations, so you might catch blacksmithing, corn grinding, or even old fashioned butter churning.
Free Events, Music & More
Summer Fireworks (June-August)
Nothing says summer like fireworks lighting up the Myrtle Beach sky! Catch free weekly shows at Broadway at the Beach, Barefoot Landing, or the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Live Music
During the warmer months, you’ll find free concerts on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and at spots like The Hangout. There’s nothing like dancing barefoot in the sand while the sun sets behind you!
Outdoor Movies
Market Common host free family friendly outdoor movies during the summer. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and settle in for a cozy movie under the stars.
Myrtle Beach Farmers Market (Seasonal)
Sure, you might spend a little if you buy something, but browsing is completely free! Whether you’re people watching or admiring local crafts, markets at Coastal Grand Mall, The Market Common, and North Myrtle Beach are always worth a visit.
Plaza City Market
Another great (and free) way to explore local vendors and artists. Just be warned, temptation runs high with all the handmade goodies and fresh produce!
New South Brewing Company
Beer lovers, this one’s for you! New South Brewing offers free tours of their facility. If you want to sample, that’ll cost you, but learning how local craft beer is made won’t cost a penny.
Outdoor Adventures & Photo Worthy Walks
Geocaching
If you’ve never tried geocaching, Myrtle Beach is a great place to start. it’s basically a real life treasure hunt using GPS, and it’s totally free (just download the app). A perfect way to explore the area with a little adventure mixed in.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade
A 1.2 mile stroll with ocean views, people watching, and street performers. Whether you’re looking for a casual walk or just want to soak in the beach vibes, this boardwalk never disappoints.
Broadway at the Beach (Wandering Edition)
Yes, you can spend money here, but you don’t have to. walking around the lake, watching the fish, and catching free entertainment make Broadway at the Beach a fun, no cost stop.
Bonus: Nearby Day Trips & Hidden Gems
Brookgreen Gardens
While normally there’s an entry fee, keep an eye out for special free days (Christmas Eve is usually one). If you can catch one, it’s a must see spot with breathtaking sculptures and gardens.
Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum
Not technically free, but for a small fee, you can play unlimited vintage pinball machines. If you’ve got arcade nostalgia, this is a fun and affordable throwback.
Final Tips for Budget Friendly Myrtle Beach Trip
Skip the state park entry fees: Unless you’re set on visiting a state park, you can access free beaches and nature trails elsewhere.
Check event schedules ahead of time: Free concerts, movies, and yoga sessions can change with the seasons.
Pack a picnic: Food is one of the biggest vacation expenses, so bring snacks or a picnic for the beach, parks, or boardwalk.
Myrtle Beach may be a top vacation spot, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune to have a good time. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, rocking out to live music, or uncovering hidden gems, there’s plenty of free fun to go around. So go on, make some memories and keep that wallet happy while you do it!
What’s your favorite free thing to do in Myrtle Beach?
Drop a comment and let us know, we love hearing about budget friendly finds! Next week: What to do When the Sun Won’t Shine?
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