Things To Do
10 Things To Do in Surfside Beach
See all the things to do in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, and discover why this family-friendly coastal town is growing in popularity. Traveling just 20 minutes south of Myrtle Beach will bring you to this oceanfront city that’s near lively nightlife, attractions, and shopping. While the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a well-known stop for anyone in the area, far fewer people are aware of the things to do in Surfside Beach.
If you’re headed this way from your Myrtle Beach hotel, use this handy list of the 10 best things to do in Surfside Beach to get the most out of your time in South Carolina:
1. Shop Beachwear Stores
The shops in this community have been serving surfers and skaters for years. While some, like Bargain Beachwear and Eagles Beachwear, are available in other areas of the Grand Strand, there are also locally owned beachwear stores in this town worth checking out. If you need boards to go with your new look, stop by Eternal Wave Surf Shop for rentals or surfing lessons.
2. Attend City Events
Though Surfside Beach is only two square miles, it is still known to host big celebrations. This community hosts holiday parties and parades, summer surf-offs, family festivals, and Bike Week events, so there is something to do in any season. Sticking to the family beach” motto, this travel destination is also autism-friendly and welcomes everyone to join in the events.
3. See the Surfside Pier
First built in 1953, the Surfside Pier has been through a lot, including multiple rebuilds. The current rebuild, which opened in March of 2024 is 814 feet long and 25 feet tall—9 feet taller than the previous pier. The pier is free to visit, and guests can hang out, fish, dine, enjoy an ice cream cone, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Atlantic.
4. Browse Hudson's Surfside Beach Flea Market
Before large retail stores appeared in Myrtle Beach, there was the original Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market. Built by Jack Hudson in 1975, and originally named Log Cabin Antique Store, today this flea market is still family owned and operated by the third generation of Hudsons. With 400 uncovered and covered vendor spaces, this is one of the largest open-air markets on the Grand Strand. Whether you’re a local or you’re visiting Surfside for the day, this flea market has something for everyone. The vendors here sell everything from antiques, clothing, and jewelry to golf supplies, handmade gifts, and tools. If you come here, we bet you won’t leave empty-handed.
5. Enjoy Mini Golfing
The Grand Strand offers a variety of miniature golf courses to choose from, including Adventure Falls Golf in Surfside Beach, one of the best and cleanest courses around. Runaway Bay Mini Golf is another spot near Surfside Beach with two separate Jamaican-themed courses, and many people visiting the area also enjoy Gilligan’s Island Funland Golf for its lagoons, waterfalls, shipwrecks, and other obstacles that recall the classic TV show.
6. Play At Surfside Bowl
Surfside Bowl Entertainment Center is one of the best things for families to do. This venue features 32 professional lanes, 9 projection screens, and a mini bowling area for kids. Bowling here can entertain you for hours, but there’s more to enjoy here. The arcade features 30 video and prize games to keep the fun going.
7. Dine at Area Restaurants
One of the best aspects of a vacation is trying new cuisine and discovering awesome places to dine out, but it can be challenging to know which spot to try first. Surfside Beach is home to so many delicious restaurants that you probably won’t have time to dine at them all. For seafood, try Crabby Mike’s or Bubba’s Fish Shack, and for more upscale dining, head to The Original Valentino Italian Restaurant. Grab a beer and a bite at Dagwood’s Deli & Sports Bar, or join the locals at River City Café, Joey Doggs Burgers, or Fat Jack’s Wings & Things.
8. Enjoy Cocktails at a Local Bar
While Myrtle Beach has tons of beachfront bars, sometimes it’s nice to get off the beaten path and hang out with locals, and Surfside Beach offers many bars to enjoy a drink or two. Sundown Sports Pub, Scotty’s Beach Bar, Island Bar & Grill, Neal & Pam’s, Spencer’z Sports Bar, and Borgata are just a handful of a number of fantastic bars where you can kick back and enjoy a brew and entertainment, like karaoke, bingo, or live music.
9. Go Treasure Hunting
Because the shoreline is less crowded than at Myrtle Beach, treasure hunters often enjoy more success in Surfside Beach. An early walk along the shore can afford visitors in Surfside Beach all kinds of treasures, from Myrtle Beach seashells to crabs and other critters or shark teeth. Those who enjoy metal detecting also find the quieter shores a good location to explore to look for lost or rare items.
10. Lounge at the Beach
Undoubtedly we saved the best for last because the beaches in Surfside Beach are some of the best. And, the beach rules are more relaxed here than in Myrtle Beach so you know your time on the shore will be leisurely and carefree. There are 36 access points for locals and visitors to reach the beautiful, sandy beaches, and many accesses include convenient shower stations. For wheelchair beach access, head to 3rd Avenue North, Surfside Pier, or Melody Lane. You may also contact the Surfside Beach Public Safety Department for special beach wheelchairs. Find your spot in the sand, relax, and bask in the sun listening to the waves crash on the shore.
