Searching for free things to do near Myrtle Beach? Look no further than the South Strand, where Garden City Beach and Surfside Beach offer an incredible array of complimentary activities that rival any paid attraction. From sunrise beach walks that cost nothing, to seasonal festivals that bring the community together, these free things to do near Myrtle Beach prove that the most enriching vacation experiences don't require opening your wallet.
Beyond the main strip, the South Strand is full of activities that connect you with nature and local gems that you may miss while searching for popular activities. These experiences offer something money can't buy and help you plan a vacation prioritizing quality over quantity. Add these free activities to your Grand Strand itinerary and save some money while exploring the beach!
Check Out These Free South Strand Activities
Hit the Beach
Of course, a trip to the South Strand is the perfect place to spend a day at the beach! Book a stay in an oceanfront Garden City Beach or Surfside Beach rental for an ideally located vacation destination. Pack a lunch and bring your beach gear along to have a pleasant afternoon spent enjoying coastal relaxation. The beach is both a must-do activity for a stay on the South Strand as well as a free activity that is ideal for thrifty travelers.
Stroll the Pier at Garden City Beach
Take a stroll along the Pier at Garden City Beach. Enjoying the breeze and the view is a perfect free activity to enjoy South Carolina's coast. And if you do have a few bucks to spend, little kids will enjoy playing games at the pier’s arcade games such as skee ball and more. Fishermen can also find the Pier at Garden City Beach a prime destination for casting a line with day passes available for a small fee. But if you prefer to just people watch and enjoy the view, the pier is a perfect destination for a free afternoon spent strolling!
Visit the South Carolina Hall of Fame
The South Carolina Hall of Fame is a testament to the state’s citizens who have made a significant contribution to history. Learn about inductees including astronauts, athletes, civil rights leaders, and more. The South Carolina Hall of Fame is a free activity that invites visitors to look into the unique history and legacy of the state. Perfect for a rainy day or for those looking to get a look into the history of South Carolina, this is a budget-friendly activity.
Explore the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum
Located just steps from the beach, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum invites visitors to experience and admire works from southern, national, and international artists. The museum finds its home in a vintage cottage and features 11 galleries for visitors to explore. The best part? The museum has been admission-free since 2003!
Spend the Day At the Horry County Museum and L.W. Paul Living History Farm
The Horry County Museum and L.W. Paul Living History Farm make for an ideal day trip for a free activity! With free admission, families can visit and explore exhibits on topics such as textiles, natural history, and more. The living farm depicts farm life in the area in the first half of the 20th century. Guided tours are available every Saturday at 10:00 AM free of charge and will lead visitors around the farm for an even more in-depth look into traditional farming practices.
Find Affordable Accommodations for Your Grand Strand Vacation
The South Strand proves that the most enriching free things to do near Myrtle Beach don't come with price tags. Whether you're watching dolphins play in the surf, exploring miles of pristine shoreline, or joining locals at a weekend festival, you're discovering why the best free things to do near Myrtle Beach are often found just south of the main tourist corridor. Your budget-friendly adventure becomes even better when you have the perfect home base to return to each evening. At Dunes Realty, we provide comfortable accommodations that enhance every South Strand free activity with conveniences like full kitchens for preparing your beach picnics and spacious decks for enjoying those priceless sunrise coffees.
Find the best free things to do in the Myrtle Beach area and find the perfect vacation rental in Garden City Beach or Surfside Beach to keep adding onto the savings. Save money by staying in second-row homes, so you still have easy access to the beach without the hefty price tag. Get ready to make memories without sacrificing your budget!