Surfside Beach didn’t earn the nickname “The Family Beach” by accident. This laid-back town just south of Myrtle Beach trades crowds and chaos for wide, walkable shores and small-town charm. Here are the ten things every family should put on the list.
Walk the Surfside Beach Pier
Stretching 810 feet over the Atlantic, the pier is free to walk and perfect for sunrise strolls, dolphin spotting, and a first cast off the rail.
Build a Sandcastle on the Strand
Miles of uncrowded, gently sloping beach make this the ideal spot for the classic family afternoon. Bring a bucket and stay a while.
Try Pier Fishing
Grab a day pass at the pier and let the kids reel in their first fish. Rod rentals and bait are available right on site.
Rent Kayaks or Paddleboards
Explore the calm morning water along the shoreline. Hourly and half-day rentals make it easy to fit in before lunch.
Play a Round of Mini Golf
A beach-and-nautical-themed course is the perfect way to cap off a sandy day with a little friendly competition.
Visit Pier Village
Browse locally owned shops for souvenirs and beach gear, then grab ice cream and watch the waves.
Catch the Summer Concert Series
Free live music at the pier amphitheater turns an ordinary evening into a family night out.
Explore Lakeside Park & Walking Trails
A local favorite for morning walks, picnics, and some of the best bird watching on the coast.
Experience the Autism-Friendly Beach
Certified since 2016, Surfside offers sensory-friendly access, quiet zones, and trained staff so every family can enjoy the shore.
Watch the Sunrise Over the Ocean
It’s free, it’s unforgettable, and on Surfside’s quiet beaches, you might just have it all to yourselves.