The Beach is where everybody belongs – that means every body, every ability, everyone – because Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has long committed itself to being a welcoming place for all travellers.
In fact, in 2016, one of its 14 communities, Surfside Beach, was named the first autism-friendly destination. With 60 miles of beaches and thousands of attractions, there’s never a dull moment for any kind of beachgoers.
Your First Stop: The Beach
There’s a reason people call Myrtle Beach “The Beach”. From splashing in the waves to sunning on the sand, you could spend an entire trip on the shoreline.
For the best ocean views, you can’t do better than the SkyWheel. It’s the largest observation wheel on the East Coast, and its private, climate-controlled gondolas are accessible for everyone looking for stunning views.
Even better, check out a sunrise flight and watch the sun come up as the sky turns a dazzling pink and orange. Coffee and pastries come included.
Book it to Broadway
Broadway at The Beach is a do-it-all entertainment, dining and shopping hub. Here, you’ll find everything, including amusement park rides, boutique shops, a water park, an arcade, a wax museum and more.
For families travelling with autistic family members, Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, Dave and Buster’s and WonderWorks all offer sensory-friendly hours with their sound and lights lowered.
Hit the (Mini) Course
Did you know Myrtle Beach is known as the Mini Golf Capital of the World?
There are over 30 courses, including the Peter Pan–themed Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf. Embark on Captain Hook’s ship, save Tinkerbell and see where the Lost Boys live in a fully ADA-accessible course.
Back at Broadway at The Beach, stop by PopStroke, a new miniature-golf venture backed by Tiger Woods, and play on beautifully designed courses with a full-service restaurant.
Step Out Into Nature
Relaxation outdoors doesn’t stop at the beach. Brookgreen Gardens is a sprawling botanical garden with massive oaks, native plants and one of the largest collections of American sculpture art in the world.
Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer quiet trails, fishing piers and relaxing picnicking spots.
For those looking for a little adventure, Waites Island is an undeveloped barrier island that you can explore on a group kayaking tour.
A Welcoming Place for All
The Beach is 60 miles of bringing people together. With accessible attractions and specially trained staff at hotels and restaurants throughout the destination, Myrtle Beach is able to accommodate anyone looking for a fun, stress-free vacation.
Check out this autism-friendly vacation guide to start planning your family’s getaway.
