Where to take the perfect Instagram photos in the Myrtle Beach area
A picture is worth a thousand words, as the saying goes, which is likely why so many Grand Strand visitors choose to commemorate their vacations with the perfect photo to share online.
The Myrtle Beach area has been tagged in millions of social media posts, and the city of Myrtle Beach was deemed one of the most “Instagrammable” spots in the nation in a recent ranking. With sweeping beach views, the colorful lights of amusement park rides, murals and iconic landmarks both natural and manmade, there’s no shortage of photo opportunities.
Here is a guide to some of the most photogenic spots in and around Myrtle Beach, for picture-perfect moments that are sure to make your followers jealous.
The SkyWheel
The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Myrtle Beach skyline. It towers over the downtown area, lighting up the night with its multi-colored glow.
The 200-foot observation wheel offers an overarching view of Myrtle Beach’s water from its peak, but the view it offers from the ground is just as striking.
The SkyWheel is located at the Myrtle Beach boardwalk, at 1100 North Ocean Blvd.
Conway’s “Shoo-Fly” mural
Just a little inland from Myrtle Beach, the city of Conway awaits with quaint, tree-lined streets and brick buildings brought to life with art.
One of the city’s most beloved murals is the “Shoo-Fly” train mural, a 19th century locomotive painted by Tommy Simpson.
The Kingston Park mural depicts in detail the Wilmington, Chadbourne and Conway railroad engine, nicknamed the Shoo-Fly.
The Shoo-Fly mural can be found at Kingston Park, at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Main Street.
Atalaya Castle
Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet holds more than stunning natural vistas and marshes full of alligators. It’s also home to Atalaya, a unique “castle” that is also a piece of history.
Atalaya was built in the 1930’s as the winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. It has become a popular architectural and historical landmark in the state., tucked away among the park’s palmetto trees and marsh greenery.
Guests can tour the rooms and hallways of the castle, or admire it from the outside.
Atalaya can be found on Atalaya Road in Huntington Beach State Park.
Lulu’s Cafe mural
The northern wall of Lulu’s Cafe off Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach features brightly-colored, eye-catching art that makes for a prime photo background.
The 61-foot-wide wall depicts a colorful surfing scene painted by Drew Brophy, which took 400 cans of graffiti paint to complete, The Sun News previously reported.
The mural has made the 1950’s-style diner a popular photo spot. It is located at 1903 North Ocean Boulevard.
Conway Riverwalk
The Conway Riverwalk is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike, offering views of the lush greenery of the Waccamaw River.
With swaying Spanish moss, towering cypress trees and more, the Riverwalk presents an opportunity to slow down and appreciate nature — and maybe snap a few photos.
The Riverwalk is located on Second Avenue in Conway.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
The MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet is a favorite local destination for waterfront dining, live music, drinks and photo opportunities.
The half-mile wooden boardwalk lets visitors stroll along the saltwater estuary in the heart of the historic fishing village of Murrells Inlet.
Boasting waterfront views and an array of local flora and fauna, the MarshWalk is full of opportunities to liven up a social media feed.
The MarshWalk is located at 4025 Highway 17.
2nd Avenue Pier
From the 2nd Avenue Pier, visitors can take in a wide view of the Myrtle Beach skyline.
The popular landmark and fishing spot along Ocean Boulevard has stood the test of time since 1936, weathering hurricanes, waves and the feet of many visitors each year.
The pier has welcomed tourists to Myrtle Beach for decades with views of the, sand and water.
The 2nd Avenue Pier is located at 110 South Ocean Blvd.
Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens is a beloved local spot full of vibrant scenery and opportunities for commemorative photographs.
The botanical garden is home to many sculptures, plants, and a healthy dose of lowcountry history.
Visitors can stroll through the butterfly garden and palmetto garden, or take photos under the enormous boughs of Live Oak Allee — home to 250 live oak trees planted in the 1700s.
Brookgreen Gardens is located in Murrells Inlet.