While the ocean is always a draw to families, Myrtle Beach Waves is another opportunity to enjoy the water without all the sand. This park, located at 3000 10th Avenue North, has a special section just for toddlers, as well as a wave pool and lazy river to float down. For older children, there are a variety of water slides, all supervised by certified lifeguards to help ensure a safe day.
Nascar Speedpark provides racing fun off the Route 17 bypass for all ages. Older children can try their hands at racing in replica race cars on four different tracks. Younger children can ride on the Kiddie Speedway or on other race-themed rides. Mini-golf, a climbing wall, arcade, as well as an indoor playground ensure all members of the family will find something fun to do here.
Myrtle Beach celebrates holidays with activities for families and kids. Children will enjoy the annual St. Patrick's Day festival, which includes a parade followed by a street festival with food and crafts. A children's section holds games and rides just for them. Mayfest brings fun to the area in North Myrtle beach with free concerts, vendors, and a children's play area. Families can enjoy the Sun Fun Festival in June, a huge Fourth of July celebration, and an Arts Festival in August. All of these have music, food, and special children's activities. End the year with the Dickens Christmas show in November, as well as a family-friendly tree lighting show in December.
The Ripley Aquarium, located at 1110 Celebrity Circle in Myrtle Beach, is a favorite for children of all ages. This hands-on aquarium allows children to not only see the marine life, but to actually touch manta rays, turtles, and horseshoe crabs. The Ripley Aquarium hosts the "Festival of Trees" each December, where trees are decorated to represent each of the 50 states in the U.S. Children will enjoy seeing how they are all decorated.
The hands-on Children's Museu, located at 2501 N. Kings Highway, has exhibits about the animals of South Carolina, electricity, buoyancy, bubbles, and fossils. Children can get creative and pretend they are a dentist, doctor, or pizza maker. An art lab provides an opportunity for children to make their own masterpieces. Special events and activities are available during holidays.
