Myrtle Beach: Top 10 Locals List

Like any popular vacation spot, Myrtle Beach has plenty of touristy things to do. But for those who opt for the road less traveled, this list of 10 local attractions will be your go-to guide.

Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park, marsh, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: Patti White Photography/Moment/Getty Images

Patti White Photography/Moment/Getty Images

For an alternative to the traditional beach setting, venture out to Murrells Inlet for an opportunity to explore the tranquility of Huntington Beach State Park. In its 2,500 acres, visitors can hike, fish and even ride horses. One quirky tradition of the park is for visitors to cover themselves in the gooey mud of the marshes.

Atalaya Castle

Atalaya Castle, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: Bonnie Schupp/iStock/Getty Images

Bonnie Schupp/iStock/Getty Images

While you’re in Huntington Beach State Park, be sure to stop by Atalaya Castle. During the mid-20th century, Archer Huntington — a Southern industrialist — moved into the castle with his wife, sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. The castle is known for both its Spanish architectural style and its status as a destination on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fat Harold's Beach Club

Fat Harold’s Beach Club, restaurant, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: Fat Harold’s Beach Club

Fat Harold’s Beach Club

In Myrtle Beach, it’s all about “shagging” — that is, the signature dance move of South Carolina. At Fat Harold’s, you can learn the move and listen to Myrtle Beach’s local DJs for an enjoyable evening on the town.

River Oaks Golf Plantation

golfing, River Oaks Golf Plantation, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: Dougal Waters/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Dougal Waters/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Myrtle Beach is often referred to as “the golf capital of the world.” That said, a trip to the golf course is somewhat obligatory on any vacation there. At River Oaks Golf Plantation, tee it up while soaking in the beautiful greenery of a modest, public golf course.

Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf

Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: VisitMyrtleBeach.com

VisitMyrtleBeach.com

If golfing on the big course seems too intimidating, try your hand at miniature golf. The family-oriented course at Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf is a Myrtle Beach favorite for everyone. Highlights of the course include a rumbling volcano, tiki huts and Hawaiian music.

MarshWalk

Marshwalk, boardwalk, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: VisitMyrtleBeach.com

VisitMyrtleBeach.com

Meander along the MarshWalk for a peaceful escape from Myrtle Beach’s busy city center. Along the boardwalk, visitors can gaze out at fishing boats or shop in cute boutiques. The pathway is particularly nice at nighttime, when couples can stroll hand-in-hand before or after supper.

Sandy Island

Sandy Island, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: Tom Murray/Myrtle Beach Sun News/MCT/Getty Images

Tom Murray/Myrtle Beach Sun News/MCT/Getty Images

Sandy Island spans 9,000 acres and remains undiscovered by mainstream tourists. Accessible only by boat, it is a picturesque and quiet spot where adventurous travelers can spend the day like true locals. For a more active afternoon, the Larry Paul Hiking Trail is a quick way to appreciate the island’s natural beauty.

Rockefellers Raw Bar

raw oysters, Rockefellers, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: Onepony/iStock/Getty Images

Onepony/iStock/Getty Images

While shellfish season in Myrtle Beach is from May to October, locals love their oysters at any time of year. At Rockefellers, they slurp down the oyster shooters — which contain beer, cocktail sauce, horseradish, jalapeno and hot sauce — almost professionally.

Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo by: VisitMyrtleBeach.com

VisitMyrtleBeach.com

For a beautiful day outside, Brookgreen Gardens does not disappoint. This pretty park offers something for everyone, including boat rides, a sculpture garden, a butterfly house and a zoo. It remains open until 8 p.m. in April and till 9 on certain days from mid-June to early August.

Alligator Adventure

Photo by: Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau

Located at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, Alligator Adventure is a favorite attraction for families. This animal park features many fascinating reptiles, such as snakes and lizards. From mid-April to mid-October, guests can watch alligators during live feedings. And kids always love to see experts handling long, slimy snakes.