Get Your Free 2024 Vacation Guide

Start planning your ultimate South Carolina adventure with a free copy of the 2024 Vacation Guide. Request your free copy, view the guide online or download a PDF version below.

Vacation Guide Cover
View Our Other Guides

Episode 8: Painting Penguins

Discover Writer Discover Writer
Discover writers share all of the places, activities and adventure that South Carolina has to offer. Read more from some of South Carolina’s locals and discover what’s happening in the Palmetto State.
More from "Discover Writer"

I still remember the day that I found out narwhals really existed. I was watching a docuseries about nature and when the narrator started describing these creatures that lived in the coldest parts of the earth, I was absolutely floored to discover that there truly was a “unicorn of the sea.” It didn’t seem real.

Comparably, while I’ve always known that penguins existed, a similar feeling of awe came over me when I had the opportunity to take part in the penguin encounter at Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach. Being so close to such a unique creature, able to reach out and actually feel its feathers, when before I’d only ever engaged with its kind via a screen or through glass, was genuinely thrilling.

It was incredible to learn how these animals are cared for and trained to create such unique art.

It was incredible to learn how these animals are cared for and trained to create such unique art. Visitors who join the penguin encounter will be amazed and delighted to experience the penguins up close, and will have a one-of-a-kind painting to take home with them to keep the memory with them always. 

While a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium can fill out an entire day of your trip to Myrtle Beach with so many exhibits and exclusive experiences here are some other must-do’s for your time along the Grand Strand of South Carolina.

Explore Broadway at the Beach

Fireworks and ice cream at Broadway at the Beach make a thrilling, sweet after-dinner combo.

Ripley’s Aquarium is located at Broadway at the Beach, an epicenter for shopping, dining and entertainment for everyone. Grab a meal at some of the area’s most popular restaurants featuring everything from Southern home cooking to fresh seafood and plenty of live music. Shop around for beach wear and souvenirs and visit other popular attractions like TOPGOLF, Wonderworks, Legends in Concert, a theme park and much more. At Broadway at the Beach, the possibilities are endless. 

 

Stay and Play at Myrtle Beach State Park

You have to visit the beach when you’re on the Grand Strand, and Myrtle Beach State Park is a fantastic option to consider. A quiet, and surprisingly green, escape from the otherwise bustling beach, the park provides educational opportunities, a nature trail and some of the best surf fishing South Carolina has to offer as well as stunning ocean views and another great fishing spot on Myrtle Beach pier. Stay at the campground or cabins and play the days away by the water and on the pier.

Take a Ride on the SkyWheel

At 20 stories tall, the SkyWheel has become an iconic fixture in Myrtle Beach with its spectacular bird’s-eye view of the Atlantic. Sitting right on the Boardwalk, the SkyWheel offers everyone the opportunity to experience the Grand Strand from the sky with three full revolutions per journey. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to appreciate the stunning coastline of South Carolina, a trip on the SkyWheel is a must!

Discover Writer
Discover Writer
More from "Discover Writer"
Discover writers share all of the places, activities and adventure that South Carolina has to offer. Read more from some of South Carolina’s locals and discover what’s happening in the Palmetto State.