Kid-Friendly Attractions

Planning a family beach vacation should feel easy, and in Surfside Beach, it truly is. Known as “The Family Beach,” this laid-back coastal town is full of simple, memorable activities that kids (and parents) love. Whether your crew is into playgrounds, ice cream stops, or all-day beach adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to keep everyone happy.

Here’s our guide to the best kid-friendly things to do, all just minutes, or steps, from The Coastal Crab. Please note that not all of the attractions listed below are located in Surfside Beach—some are in nearby areas like Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach, both just a short drive away.

• Beach Days made easy at The Costal Crab:
  • Sometimes the best days are the simplest ones. Being oceanfront at The Coastal Crab means you can skip the packing, parking, and planning, and head straight to the sand. We’ve got you covered with Tommy Bahama chairs, an umbrella, beach towels, toys, a bocce ball set, and a Stanley cooler, everything you need for a relaxing, effortless beach day.
  • Build sandcastles in the morning, splash in the waves in the afternoon, and wind down with a sunset walk along the shore. If your kids are up for it, keep an eye out for tiny ghost crabs in the evening, it's always a highlight.

• Playground & Parks: When the kids need a break from the sand, there are some great nearby spots to run, climb, and play.
  • All Children's Park - this park contains two playgrounds, a picnic area, and restroom facilities. It is accessible to both physically challenged and able-bodied children.
  • Fuller Park – This park features two lighted tennis courts, a playground, and a picnic area with restrooms, perfect for families. Located right next to the Tuesday farmers market, it’s an easy one-stop spot to keep both kids and parents happy.
  • Huckabee Complex Park – A local favorite that offers three baseball fields, 2 t-ball fields, a tot lot for children 5 and under, a picnic shelter, and restroom facilities.
  • Myrtle Beach State Park – Whether you're looking to relax on a quieter beach, go fishing, hike shaded trails, or spend the day exploring nature, Myrtle Beach State Park is a must-visit for a more laid-back, natural side of the coast. 
  • MarshWalk Playground Area – A fun stop near the water in nearby Murrells Inlet with a lively coastal atmosphere.

• Classic Family Attractions: If you're looking to mix in a little excitement, the Myrtle Beach area has plenty of classic attractions that kids will remember long after the trip ends.
  • Family Kingdom Amusement Park – is a nostalgic seaside amusement park with rides for all ages. That operates seasonally, opening in the spring (around March or April) and running through late summer, with limited weekend hours into the fall depending on the weather. They’re also known for their popular Early Bird Special—guests who arrive early in the day can often purchase discounted unlimited ride wristbands, making it a great way to enjoy the park and save a bit if you plan ahead.
  • Myrtle Waves Water Park – is South Carolina’s largest water park, open seasonally from late spring through early fall. It features a mix of exciting water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, and kid-friendly splash areas—making it a fun summer day trip for all ages.
  • SkyWheel Myrtle Beach – Take in the coastline from above on this iconic Ferris wheel. 
  • Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach – is a must-visit indoor attraction featuring colorful marine life, underwater tunnels, and interactive exhibits that let you get up close with sharks, rays, and tropical fish. It’s a fun, family-friendly escape any time of year, perfect for a rainy day or a break from the beach.

• Sports & Active Fun: For kids who like to stay active, there are plenty of ways to burn off energy beyond the beach.
  • Seakart Adventure- Lets you drive your own fun, go-kart-style boat through the scenic waters near Murrells Inlet for a fast, exciting, and totally unique coastal experience.
  • Cal Ripken Experience Myrtle Beach – A top-notch baseball complex that’s exciting whether you're playing or just watching.
  • Surfside Beach Tennis Center – Great for a casual family match.
  • Mini Golf & Putt-Putt Fun – Family-friendly activity along the Grand Strand, with courses that range from relaxed, scenic greens to themed adventures perfect for all ages. Favorites include: (Mulligan's Lagoon Arcade and Putt, Inlet Adventures Golf, Runaway Bay Miniature Golf, Snake River Golf)
  • Warbird Park – A free, outdoor park in Myrtle Beach that honors the area’s military aviation history on the site of the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. You can see several historic fighter aircraft on static display, explore memorials including a World War II tribute, and learn about the service of local airmen—all while enjoying views of the nearby airport and a pleasant place to walk or picnic. 
  • Murrells Inlet MarshWalk area - is a scenic waterfront boardwalk lined with local restaurants, live music, and beautiful views of the saltwater marsh. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed evening stroll, sunset dining, spotting boats and wildlife, and soaking in the laid-back Lowcountry atmosphere.

• Unique Experiences: For something a little different, these experiences are always a hit with kids:
  • Brookgreen Gardens * – Is a breathtaking mix of botanical gardens, sculpture, and wildlife. One of the best parts is that your admission ticket is valid for 7 consecutive days, giving you plenty of time to explore the gardens, trails, and Lowcountry Zoo at a relaxed pace.
  • Dolphin watching tours in nearby Murrells Inlet. Few local tours include (Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Watch Tour, Express Watersports, Dolphin cruise, Crazy Sister Marina, Visit Murrells Inlet). And don’t forget, when the waters are calm, you can often spot dolphins swimming right from your The Coastal Crab balcony in the morning!
  • Pirate-themed boat cruises- Just a short drive from Surfside Beach in Murrells Inlet, you can hop aboard a pirate-themed boat cruise that’s perfect for families. These interactive adventures let kids dress up, hunt for treasure, fire water cannons, and enjoy a lively 1.5-hour cruise aboard the Sea Gypsy while taking in scenic views of the saltwater marsh. Few local favorites include Visit Murrells Inlet and Blackbeard's Pirate Cruise.
  • Fishing trips- Whether you’re after inshore action in calm backwaters or offshore excitement chasing bigger fish, there are great fishing trips for all experience levels. Few local favorites include: Murrells Inlet Fishing Charters, Crazy Sister Marina, Reel Blessed Charters, Murrells Inlet Outpost Charters, Catch 1 Sport Fishing Charters, and Reel Life Fishing Charters.
  • Kayaking and Paddling in the calm creeks of Murrells Inlet is perfect for exploring the local marshes, creeks, and wildlife. Few local favorites include: River Reader Kayaking, Express Watersports, and Crazy Sister Marin.
  • Hudson's Surfside Flea Market - A large and historic market with numerous vendors selling a variety of items including antiques, clothing, and handmade products. It’s an excellent spot for shopping and finding unique items.

Whether your kids love playgrounds, ice cream, or just running free on the beach, Surfside has something for every little crab. The best part? You don’t have to go far to find it. 

At The Coastal Crab, you’re right in the middle of it all, so you can spend less time planning and more time making memories together.

We can’t wait to host your family’s next beach getaway.

Whether your kids love playgrounds, ice cream, or just running free on the beach, Surfside has something for every little crab. The best part? You don’t have to go far to find it.

At The Coastal Crab, you’re right in the middle of it all, so you can spend less time planning and more time making memories together.

We can’t wait to host your family’s next beach getaway.