Things To Do
Things To Do In & Around Little River
Escape the hustle of Myrtle Beach and find even more things to do in Little River and Cherry Grove, South Carolina, charming nearby towns with a lot to offer. When the sun, the sand, water, and great food in Myrtle Beach just aren’t enough, or you’re looking to explore a different side of the Grand Strand, a day trip to these quaint beach villages is in order.
If you haven’t been to the Grand Strand, or haven’t ventured far past your oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach, you may not even know these two relaxing, fun cities exist. Cherry Grove and Little River are just outside of North Myrtle Beach and they’re known for their family-friendly atmospheres and fishing. Many seasoned vacationers in the Grand Strand stay and play in these areas, but those less familiar may not know what they’re missing. If you’re wondering what to do this weekend, venture from your Myrtle Beach hotel and try any of these 10 things to do in Little River and Cherry Grove:
Big "M" Casino
4491 Mineola Avenue, Little River, SC 29566
Docked in Little River, the Big M” Casino boat sails just far enough (three miles to be exact) to provide legal, Vegas-style gambling for locals and visitors. Play a wide variety of slot machines and place your bets on blackjack, craps, roulette, 3-card poker, and other table games. If you have other vacation activities scheduled, it’s okay! Big M” Casino offers a variety of AM and PM cruises that make planning other things to do easier. If you work up an appetite while gambling, grab lunch onboard. Choose from a sub, wrap, or hot dog with chips, a pickle, and a drink, or order à la carte soup or pizza. The boat also offers beer, wine, and cocktails for purchase.
La Belle Amie Vineyard
1120 St Joseph Rd, Little River, SC 29566
Operating as a winery and gift shop in Little River since 2000, La Belle Amie Vineyard boasts a story that starts long before then. Drawing inspiration from her French wine-making ancestors, La Belle Amie owner Vicki Weigle still uses old family secrets and recipes to craft her wine. This vineyard offers some of the best things to do in Little River, South Carolina: Partake in wine tasting, attend a Festival Saturday Concert, or both! Browse the gift shop and take home a gift for yourself or a loved one. Don’t forget to take a bottle of Twisted Sisters wine with you—it is, after all, made right here at La Belle Amie Vineyard.
Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens
2250 Highway 179, Little River, SC 29566
Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens is a hidden gem in Little River for anyone looking for things to do outside beyond the beach. This area is often referred to as Vereen Botanical Gardens, and the 115 acres of land offer many opportunities for exploration. Go for a long hike or stroll down the scenic pathway of wooden boardwalks that passes over wetlands and marshes to view wildlife and native plants. Vereen Gardens is a quiet place, so it’s ideal for visitors who just want to relax, read, walk, and be in nature. These gardens also come with a vibrant history, as the land was donated to Horry County by the Vereen family, a lineage that dates to the Revolutionary War. Another interesting fact: Jeremiah Vereen hosted President George Washington when he toured the coast in 1791.
Little River Fishing Fleet
1901 Hwy 17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
There is truly no better thing to do in a fishing town than, well, fish! Little River Fishing Fleet is run by Cameron Sebastian, who has more than 30 years of experience in fishing and SCUBA diving in the Grand Strand region. Come meet Cameron and his crew and enjoy a private fishing charter. Whether you’re casting a line with your family, friends, or by yourself, this fishing fleet offers a variety of charters, day and night.
Wampee Stables
If you want to try something unique on your vacation to the Grand Strand, why not go horseback riding? Wampee Stables is owned and operated by Debbie and Richard Parker, and the land has been in Debbie’s family for more than a century. Wampee Stables is home to 35 horses to whom the Parkers have fostered a close relationship. Take a journey into the Little River countryside on an hour-and-a-half trail ride. Bond with your horse and escape the city life for an afternoon at Wampee Stables. On top of the memorable time you’ll experience, you also receive free keepsake pictures of you and your horse.
Cherry Grove Pier
3500 N. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
A favorite of locals and visitors, the Cherry Grove Pier has been an attraction on the Grand Strand since the 1950s. Perhaps best known for the world record-setting catch of a 1,780-pound tiger shark in 1964, this pier is still the perfect fishing spot for enthusiasts. If you’re traveling and didn’t think to bring your fishing gear, that’s not a problem. Cherry Grove Pier features a full-service tackle shop with equipment for rent. There is also a gift shop where you can check out the selection of souvenirs, or grab an ice-cold beer or soda. If you don’t feel like fishing, enjoy strolling along the pier and sightseeing.
Harold's on the Ocean
2301 N. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
The Grand Strand is home to the legendary shag, and Harold’s on the Ocean is no stranger to this famous jig. This oceanfront beach bar has been a local favorite for years, and coming here is one of the top things to do in Cherry Grove, South Carolina. At Harold’s the party never stops, so it’s the perfect spot to hear music or kick back, have a beer, and dance! Locals love this bar so much it has won the honor of Show Club of the Year” on multiple occasions. Dancing and breathing in the saltwater air will make anyone hungry, so try some of Harold’s delectable cuisine, including their revered steamed shrimp.
Kayaking
This well-known kayaking company is happy to get you out enjoying the scenery of Cherry Grove.
J & L Kayaking offers a variety of tours for any activity level. The trip to Waites Island is a favorite thing to do, as it’s the perfect combination of paddling and island exploration. There are also adults-only tours that take a small group to a hidden gem that only the locals know about. You can also choose to rent a kayak and explore Cherry Grove waters yourself.
Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
Created in 2007, Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is one of the most interesting parks in Cherry Grove. This gorgeous area offers an untouched look at nature and a way to see live animals in their natural habitats. The land is kept in its original state and can be accessed along raised wooden walkways and observation docks. The signs along the paths share the history and facts of the animals, plants, birds, and fish that inhabit the area. Stop for a while and have lunch in the picnic area, or lounge by the creek and enjoy the sounds of the water. If you’re looking for some different and affordable things to do on your vacation, this nature preserve is free to the public and unlike many other parks.
