Stretching 1.2 miles along South Carolina’s pristine coastline, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk isn’t just a walkway—it’s the beating heart of the Grand Strand. From the moment the sun paints the Atlantic in golden hues to the neon-lit excitement of summer nights, this iconic destination delivers memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or rediscovering this coastal gem, here’s your guide to making the most of every moment on the Boardwalk.
Start with the Magic Hour: Sunrise at 2nd Avenue Pier
Early risers are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking experiences the Grand Strand has to offer. The 2nd Avenue Pier, located at the southern end of the Boardwalk, provides an idyllic place to enjoy a nice stroll on the pier and one of the best sunsets in Myrtle Beach (and equally stunning sunrises).
Built in 1936, this 906-foot-long pier takes visitors out into the Atlantic’s depths for unbeatable fishing and expansive ocean views. Arrive around 6:30 AM with your coffee in hand, and watch as the sky transforms from deep purple to brilliant orange. The pier is peaceful at this hour—just you, the waves, and the promise of an incredible day ahead.
Pro tip: Dogs are allowed on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk between 5:00am and 10:00am from May 1 through Labor Day, making sunrise the perfect time for a walk with your four-legged friend.
Morning Fuel: Breakfast and Coffee
As the Boardwalk begins to stir to life, you’ll find plenty of options to fuel your day. Whether you’re craving classic pancakes or a quick coffee and pastry, the surrounding area offers everything from casual cafes to hearty breakfast spots that have been serving beachgoers for decades.
The Heart of the Action: SkyWheel and Attractions
The iconic SkyWheel Myrtle Beach standing 187 feet tall is impossible to miss as you make your way along the Boardwalk. Standing 187-feet above the ocean waves with far-stretching views along the coastline, the SkyWheel is an iconic attraction that all ages will love. Each gondola is enclosed and air-conditioned, offering comfortable 10-minute rides with panoramic views of the coastline.
Beyond the SkyWheel, adventure awaits:
- Ripley’s Collection: Boardwalk visitors can explore three of the four Ripley’s local attractions: Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, and Ripley’s Crazy Golf
- Thrill Rides: Free Fall Thrill Park features towering rides, including the Sling Shot, Air Strike, and the Screaming Swing for hours of exciting entertainment
- Family Fun: Multiple arcades offer classic games, from skee-ball to modern gaming experiences with prizes for all ages
Shopping and Souvenirs
No Boardwalk experience is complete without browsing the unique shops that line the promenade. Gay Dolphin Gift Cove is a Boardwalk staple. An iconic attraction and cornerstone of the Boardwalk for over 70 years, this shop carries a diverse selection of apparel, jewelry, collectibles and souvenirs, and seashells.
For beach essentials, Tsunami Surf Shop offers apparel and accessories for everyone. Parents appreciate the practical wares, including towels, resort clothing, sunscreen, and other extras.
The Perfect Lunch Break
Midday calls for refueling, and the Boardwalk doesn’t disappoint. From casual beachside eateries to restaurants with stunning ocean views, you’ll find options for every taste and budget. The key is finding a spot where you can enjoy both great food and the incredible atmosphere that makes the Boardwalk special.
Afternoon Delights: Ice Cream and Ocean Breezes
As the South Carolina sun reaches its peak, treat yourself to something sweet. Local ice cream shops offer the perfect cool-down, with flavors ranging from classic vanilla to creative coastal-inspired concoctions. Find a shady spot along the Boardwalk and watch the world go by—surfers catching waves, families building sandcastles, and the constant, soothing rhythm of the Atlantic.
Golden Hour: Where the Magic Happens
As afternoon melts into evening, the Boardwalk transforms. This is when locals know the best part of the day begins. The crowds thin slightly, the temperature becomes perfect, and the ocean takes on that golden shimmer that makes every photo look like a postcard.
This is the perfect time to discover Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant.
Positioned right on the Boardwalk with unobstructed ocean views, Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant epitomizes the charm of seaside dining. As the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, there’s no better place to grab a cold drink and soak in the atmosphere.
Sharkey’s is celebrated for its signature fish tacos and a diverse array of beverages, making it the ideal spot for happy hour with a view. Whether you choose a frozen cocktail, an ice-cold beer, or one of their signature drinks, you’ll be perfectly positioned to watch the Boardwalk come alive with evening energy.
Dinner with a View
As the sky begins to blush with sunset colors, Sharkey’s transitions seamlessly from happy hour hangout to dinner destination. With a menu that highlights local seafood and crowd-pleasers like fish tacos, grilled mahi, shrimp baskets, burgers, and more, there’s something for everyone.
The restaurant’s laid-back vibe as you spend time with friends or family perfectly captures the essence of coastal dining. Open-air seating lets ocean breezes drift across your table while the sound of waves provides the perfect soundtrack to your meal.
Timing tip: Arrive for dinner just before sunset to witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows right from your table.
After Dark: The Boardwalk’s Electric Energy
Once the sun dips below the horizon, the Boardwalk reveals its nighttime personality. Throughout the summer, the Boardwalk hosts “Hot Summer Nights” with family-friendly activities, fireworks and more. Street performers appear, attractions light up in brilliant colors, and the energy becomes infectious.
Take a leisurely stroll to work off dinner, browse the shops that stay open late, or simply find a bench and people-watch. The nighttime Boardwalk has a magic all its own—part carnival, part coastal paradise.
Special Events and Seasonal Highlights
The Boardwalk calendar is packed with events throughout the year:
- Carolina Country Music Fest: The annual Carolina Country Music Fest is enjoyed each year by locals and visitors from across the country. In 2026, this much-anticipated long weekend of South Carolina beach boardwalk concerts is set to kick off on Thursday, June 4, and run through Sunday, June 7
- Holiday Celebrations: From summer fireworks to winter festivities, there’s always something special happening
- Live Music: Regular concerts and performances keep the entertainment flowing year-round
Planning Your Perfect Boardwalk Day
Best Times to Visit:
- Early morning (6-10 AM): Peaceful sunrise, dog-friendly hours, cooler temperatures
- Late afternoon/evening (4-8 PM): Perfect weather, golden hour lighting, vibrant atmosphere
- The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is open 24 hours a day, so you can experience its magic anytime
Getting There: The Myrtle Beach area’s 1.2 mile-long Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade traverses through the sand from the 14th Avenue to 2nd Avenue Piers. Parking is available, though it’s metered during peak season.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Camera for those Instagram-worthy moments
- Appetite for adventure (and great seafood!)
The Boardwalk Experience: More Than Just a Walk
The Boardwalk recently underwent a facelift, now featuring recycled plastic boards in nine colors making it more accessible and more durable for years to come. But beyond the beautiful infrastructure, what makes the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk truly special is how it brings people together.
Families create traditions, couples fall in love with sunsets, friends make memories over shared meals and laughter. It’s a place where the simple pleasure of walking becomes an adventure, and where every visit offers something new to discover.
From the peaceful beauty of sunrise at 2nd Avenue Pier to the vibrant energy of a summer evening, from thrilling rides to quiet moments watching the waves, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk delivers experiences that define the very best of coastal living.
And when you’re ready to pause, to savor the moment with great food and an even better view, Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant is waiting to welcome you to the perfect seaside experience.
Come for the attractions, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with memories that will bring you back again and again.
Nestled on the iconic shores of Myrtle Beach, Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant offers a dining escapade that transcends the ordinary, blending the mesmerizing Atlantic sunsets with unmatched culinary expertise. A visit to Sharkey’s isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating memorable experiences against a backdrop of stunning ocean views and soothing coastal breezes.
The Magic of Dining by the Ocean
The allure of Sharkey’s is magnified by its prime location along the vibrant Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky paints itself in hues of orange and purple, setting a spectacular scene for an evening meal. Dining at Sharkey’s allows guests to immerse themselves in this picturesque setting, where each meal is complemented by the rhythmic sounds of the waves and the beauty of the coastline stretching into the sunset.
Signature Dishes and Drinks
Sharkey’s menu is a testament to culinary diversity, featuring a range of dishes that cater to all palates. The restaurant is renowned for its fish tacos—flaky, seasoned fish wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with fresh salsa. For those with a penchant for something a bit more exotic, the coconut shrimp offers a sweet and crunchy delight, perfectly paired with a tangy marmalade sauce.
The drink menu at Sharkey’s is equally impressive, featuring an array of colorful cocktails that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. The Shark Attack, a frozen concoction of dark spiced rum and tropical flavors, is a favorite among guests looking to cool down with a refreshing beverage. For a more classic taste, the handcrafted margaritas, available in various flavors, provide a crisp complement to any meal.
From Appetizers to Entrees
Start your meal with a selection from the extensive appetizer menu. The fried calamari, light and crispy, served with a side of marinara, sets the stage for a flavor-filled evening. For a richer start, the blackened scallops offer a smoky depth, enhanced by the restaurant’s signature seasoning.
As you transition to the main courses, the entree selections invite you to explore the depths of oceanic flavors. The grilled salmon, drizzled with wasabi mayo and teriyaki glaze, offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, while the Sharkey’s seafood platter—a medley of fried oysters, popcorn shrimp, and hand-breaded flounder—showcases the best of the sea.
Perfect Pairings
Choosing the right drink to complement your meal can elevate the dining experience. Pair the spicy notes of the blackened dishes with the smooth, sweet notes of a peach bellini or a frozen daiquiri to enhance the flavors. Non-alcoholic options, such as the house-made lemonade, offer a refreshing alternative without compromising the complexity of the meal’s flavors.
Why Choose Sharkey’s for Sunset Dining?
Dining at Sharkey’s is an experience that goes beyond mere consumption. It’s about savoring each moment, from the initial sight of the dish as it’s presented against the sunset backdrop to the last bite of a perfectly prepared meal. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy a meal that is as visually stunning as it is delicious.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
To fully enjoy the Sharkey’s experience, consider making reservations around sunset time for the best views. The friendly staff can help recommend dishes and drinks that align with your preferences, ensuring that your meal is personalized and memorable. Don’t rush—plan to savor each course as the day transitions into night, making your dining experience at Sharkey’s a highlight of your visit to Myrtle Beach.
Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant invites you to embark on a culinary journey where the sunset is your backdrop, and each dish tells a story of flavor and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make Sharkey’s your next dining destination and discover why it’s not just a meal, but an experience that captivates all the senses.
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Myrtle Beach, Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant stands as a beacon for those seeking a serene dining experience complemented by stunning sunset views. This unique setting offers an unparalleled opportunity to savor the quiet beauty of off-season dining, where each meal is framed by the picturesque backdrop of the setting sun.
Unmatched Location and Ambiance
At Sharkey’s, the allure of the ocean is undeniable. Diners can enjoy expansive views of the Atlantic, witnessing the sky’s transformation as the sun dips below the horizon. The off-season brings a special charm, with fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and peaceful ambiance of the waterfront.
Exquisite Culinary Offerings
Sharkey’s prides itself on its commitment to freshness and quality, particularly with its seafood selections. The menu is a testament to local flavors, featuring dishes crafted from the catch of the day, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of oceanic bounty. Signature dishes, such as the grilled seabass or the classic shrimp cocktail, are perfected to enhance the sunset dining experience, making every meal memorable.
Ideal for Special Occasions
Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a significant celebration, Sharkey’s provides a perfect setting. The off-season’s calm environment allows for more personalized service, making it ideal for those special moments that call for a touch of elegance and privacy. The restaurant adapts to the unique needs of each event, ensuring that every guest’s experience is as exceptional as the view.
Enhancements to the Dining Experience
During the quieter months, Sharkey’s introduces special promotions and menu items that cater to the discerning palates of its guests. This time of year allows the restaurant to experiment with new dishes and offer seasonal specials that reflect the best of what the ocean has to offer. The enhanced service during the off-season ensures that every visit is tailored to the diner’s preferences, adding a personal touch to the exquisite dining experience.
Conclusion
Sharkey’s Oceanfront Restaurant invites you to discover why it’s celebrated as the best spot for sunset dining in Myrtle Beach. With its stunning views, exceptional seafood, and tailored dining experiences, Sharkey’s embodies the spirit of oceanfront dining. Experience the magic of the off-season at Sharkey’s, where every meal is a celebration of tranquility and culinary delight.
Myrtle Beach, renowned for its picturesque beaches and vibrant tourist life, harbors a hidden dimension woven into its cultural fabric—mysterious legends and eerie tales that provide a fascinating contrast to its sunny disposition. These stories, steeped in the history of the Grand Strand, add an intriguing layer to the popular destination, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore a shadowy past that whispers from beneath the waves and winds through the aged corridors of historic sites.
The Ghosts of the Grand Strand
Perhaps no tales are more chilling than those of the ghosts believed to roam the Grand Strand. The story of Alice Flagg, the tragic heroine who died of a broken heart, is a staple of local folklore. Her spirit is said to haunt the Hermitage, her family home, where visitors report strange occurrences and sightings of a ghostly figure in white. Equally compelling is the legend of the Gray Man of Pawleys Island, a spectral figure who appears on the beach to forewarn residents of impending hurricanes, saving many lives by his premonitions.
Pirate Tales and Buried Treasure
The Carolina coast, with Myrtle Beach at its heart, was once the prowling grounds of notorious pirates like Blackbeard. Legends say that Blackbeard hid his treasures in the marshes and creeks along the coast, treasures that many believe are still buried there. Another colorful figure is Drunken Jack, the pirate left behind on an island with his rum. His spirit is rumored to haunt Drunk Jack Island, where eerie sounds and ghostly apparitions stir the imaginations of those who venture near.
Mysteries of the Sea
The waters off Myrtle Beach hold their own secrets, including historic shipwrecks that divers explore, each with its own legend of lost fortunes and doomed voyages. Adding to the maritime mystique are tales of sea monsters, with accounts dating back to colonial times when sailors and fishermen spoke of serpentine creatures that lurked beneath the ocean’s surface, occasionally surfacing to the awe and terror of onlookers.
The Haunted Hotels and Buildings
Among the many haunted locales in Myrtle Beach, the Brentwood Restaurant stands out. Housed in a Victorian building, its charming exterior belies the ghost stories told by staff and patrons who have experienced unexplained phenomena, from mysterious noises to ghostly sightings. Similarly, the area around the old Pavilion, now demolished, is famed for its spectral sightings, making it a popular spot for paranormal investigations.
Unexplained Phenomena and Modern Mysteries
The skies above Myrtle Beach have not been free from mystery either. UFO sightings have been reported with surprising frequency, drawing the attention of both locals and researchers interested in the extraterrestrial. The area around Suck Bang Blow biker bar is known for the “spooklight,” a mysterious orb of light that appears at night with no apparent source, captivating those who witness it.
Folklore in Modern Culture
These legends are not just tales of the past; they actively shape the cultural landscape of Myrtle Beach today. They are celebrated during local festivals, where ghost tours and reenactments bring history to life. Artists and writers draw inspiration from these stories, creating works that resonate with the eerie beauty of these tales. Each year, new films, books, and artworks explore these themes, continuing to intrigue and entertain.
Visiting Haunted Myrtle Beach
For those eager to experience these mysterious stories firsthand, Myrtle Beach offers a range of ghost tours that explore haunted locales and recount the tales of yore. Visitors can follow guides into the night, exploring historic buildings and walking the moonlit beaches where ghosts are said to roam.
Join the Legend: Share Your Myrtle Beach Ghost Stories
We invite you to share your encounters with the supernatural in Myrtle Beach or any local legends from your own regions. Have these stories shaped your experience of Myrtle Beach? Do they add a layer of mystery to your visits? Join the conversation and tell us your tale.
Through its rich tapestry of folklore, Myrtle Beach proves to be a place where not only sun-seekers thrive but also those who seek the thrill of the unknown. Whether it’s the lure of buried treasure or the chill of a ghost story, Myrtle Beach offers a deeper story waiting to be explored.
Myrtle Beach, with its sprawling sands and vibrant community, is a testament to transformation. Once a tranquil beach town, it has morphed into one of the East Coast’s most frequented tourist havens. This article explores the journey from its humble beginnings to its present-day glory, unveiling the pivotal moments that shaped its evolution.
The Early Days of Myrtle Beach
The story of Myrtle Beach begins in the early 1900s when it was little more than a stretch of coastline known for its abundance of wax myrtle trees, lending the area its name. The serene beaches and the Atlantic’s lulling waves initially attracted a modest number of visitors, setting the stage for its future growth.
Development Milestones
As word of its beauty spread, the early 20th century saw Myrtle Beach begin to transform. The completion of the Intracoastal Waterway in the 1930s and the establishment of a railroad connection provided much-needed access, drawing more visitors and facilitating the transport of goods. The area’s first real tourism boom came with the construction of the Pavilion and the opening of the first hotels, which provided accommodations and entertainment to guests, planting the seeds for a burgeoning tourist industry.
The Post-War Boom
The post-World War II era marked a significant turning point for Myrtle Beach. Returning veterans and burgeoning families, eager to enjoy the freedoms of peacetime, flocked to the coast. This influx led to rapid population growth and a burgeoning economy centered around tourism. Attractions, shops, and eateries sprouted up, catering to an ever-increasing number of visitors and establishing tourism as the linchpin of the local economy.
Myrtle Beach Today
Today, Myrtle Beach is a kaleidoscope of attractions, from high-end golf courses and luxury resorts to family-oriented amusement parks and an aquarium. The city hosts millions of tourists annually, drawn not only to its beaches but to its rich array of cultural and recreational activities. Festivals like the Carolina Country Music Fest and events such as the Myrtle Beach Marathon showcase the city’s diverse appeal.
Impact of Tourism
Tourism has undeniably sculpted the economic landscape of Myrtle Beach. It has created countless jobs, from hospitality to retail, and has been a crucial factor in the area’s economic development. However, this growth has not come without challenges. The local community has had to adapt to the seasonal swings in population and the environmental impacts of widespread development.
Challenges and Future Outlook
As Myrtle Beach looks to the future, it faces the dual challenge of sustaining its tourist economy while mitigating environmental impacts. Issues such as coastal erosion, traffic congestion, and sustainable development are at the forefront of policy discussions. The city is actively exploring ways to balance growth with ecological and social sustainability, ensuring that Myrtle Beach remains a beloved destination for future generations.
Engaging the Community and Visitors
Myrtle Beach’s story is one of community and change. Local residents play a vital role in preserving the city’s rich history and natural beauty, participating in beach clean-ups and heritage preservation projects. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the city in a way that respects its past and contributes positively to its future, exploring beyond the beach to understand the true spirit of Myrtle Beach.
Summary
From its origins as a sleepy beach town to its status as a bustling tourist hub, Myrtle Beach has undergone a remarkable transformation. It stands as a beacon of how a small community can evolve into a thriving tourist destination without losing sight of its roots. As Myrtle Beach continues to grow and adapt, it remains a testament to the enduring allure of the coast and the spirit of its people, inviting everyone to partake in its ongoing story.
As you explore the vibrant history and attractions of Myrtle Beach, we invite you to experience the best of what this beautiful coastal city has to offer at Sharkey’s. From our signature seafood dishes to our breathtaking oceanfront views, Sharkey’s embodies the spirit and culture of Myrtle Beach. Visit our main site to discover more about our menu, make reservations, or plan your next visit. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Sharkey’s looks forward to being a memorable part of your Myrtle Beach experience.