Murrells Inlet Summer Guide: Boat Tours, Events & Family Fun

When summer arrives along the Grand Strand, there’s no shortage of sunshine, salty air, and memory-making adventures. But if you’re looking for the perfect blend of laid-back coastal charm and action-packed fun, there’s no better home base than Murrells Inlet. Known as the seafood capital of South Carolina, this charming fishing village offers waterfront dining, unforgettable outdoor experiences, and easy access to some of the Grand Strand’s biggest summer happenings.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples getaway, or weekend escape, here are the can’t-miss things to do and look forward to this summer in the Murrells Inlet area and surrounding Grand Strand of Myrtle Beach.

Explore Murrells Inlet from the Water

Summer in Murrells Inlet simply feels different when you’re out on the water. The salt marshes come alive with wildlife, dolphins are frequently spotted cruising nearby, and warm evenings on the inlet create unforgettable views.

A must-do this summer is booking an excursion through Crazy Sister Marina, where visitors can experience the best of coastal South Carolina firsthand. Whether you’re traveling with young kids, adventurous teens, or a group of adults, there’s something for everyone.

Some top summer experiences include:

Dolphin Watching Cruises

Seeing Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat never gets old. Summer is one of the best times to hop aboard a dolphin cruise and experience the beauty of the inlet while learning about local marine wildlife. It’s an ideal activity for families and a relaxing way to enjoy the water without spending all day in the sun.

A dolphin swimming and surfacing in calm blue water. Two dolphins swimming in greenish ocean water.

Click here for dolphin tour details and availability!

Salt Marsh Eco Tours

Want to experience the quieter side of Murrells Inlet? Eco tours through the salt marsh offer a chance to spot birds, marine life, and learn why these ecosystems are so important to the South Carolina coast. These trips are especially great for nature lovers and curious kids. The tour features a beach walk with the chance to collect seashells and other fun beach artifacts!

a group of people on a boat in the water Person holding marine objects, standing on a boat, with seashell chart in background.

Click here for Eco Tour details and availability!

Fishing Adventures for Every Skill Level

Murrells Inlet has long been known for its fishing heritage, and summer is prime time to cast a line. From beginner-friendly family fishing trips to offshore excursions targeting larger catches, there are plenty of ways to get out on the water and make a fish tale worth sharing. From public Head Boat charters and private fishing charters, ranging from 4 hours up to 12 with options in between, there’s something for everyone! All fishing excursions at Crazy Sister Marina include rod, reel, bait, tackle, and license per guest making it as easy as possible to get you on the water.

Boy holding a fish, surrounded by adults on a boat. Two men on a boat with a fish; one holding it, the other smiling and waving.

Man on boat holding large red and brown fish under blue sky. Person on boat holding a large fish with ocean in background.

Click here for Head Boat fishing! And click here for Private Charter fishing!

Pirate Adventures & Family Fun

Traveling with younger kids? Pirate-themed cruises and interactive experiences are summer favorites that turn a simple boat ride into a memorable family adventure. Onboard the Sea Gypsy, the young pirate crew will learn the rules at sea and use a treasure map to find the sunken treasure. As the crew searches for clues, they discover that Pirate Pete, the smiliest, most rotten, pirate on the Seven Seas, is lurking nearby, and he has something our brave crew needs. Off we go into battle with our famous water cannons! Will the crew defeat Pirate Pete and find the sunken treasure? Try it out to find out!

Side view of our pirate ship hosting a pirate event out on the water in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Kids Preparation For Pirate Adventures

Click here for Pirate Adventure details and availability!

Spend Time on the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

No summer visit to Murrells Inlet is complete without time spent strolling the MarshWalk. This scenic half-mile boardwalk overlooking the salt marsh is packed with waterfront dining, live music, local seafood, and unbeatable sunset views.

Summer also means the return of the MarshWalk’s popular “75 Days of Summer” celebration, bringing even more entertainment and energy to the waterfront. The MarshWalk also hosts a major Fourth of July celebration complete with fireworks and festivities.

Click here to check out The MarshWalk’s list of upcoming events!

Whether you’re grabbing fresh seafood, listening to live music, or simply enjoying the inlet breeze, this is one of the best places to soak up Murrells Inlet’s coastal charm.

Celebrate Summer Events Across the Grand Strand

Summer in the Grand Strand means event season is in full swing.

One major highlight is the annual Carolina Country Music Fest, bringing huge country music stars and thousands of visitors to the Myrtle Beach oceanfront every June. Summer festivals, weekly entertainment, fireworks, and live shows keep the energy high all season long.

Other summer happenings to look forward to include:

Weekly summer fireworks displays in Myrtle Beach
Family-friendly festivals throughout the Grand Strand
Fourth of July celebrations across coastal communities
Live music nearly every night along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk and oceanfront entertainment districts

Visit Brookgreen Gardens & Huntington Beach State Park

Just minutes from Murrells Inlet, summer visitors can enjoy two of the area’s most beautiful attractions.

Brookgreen Gardens offers stunning gardens, sculptures, and special seasonal programming like Summer Light, a popular evening event featuring illuminated displays, live entertainment, and beautiful summer scenery.

Nearby, Huntington Beach State Park is perfect for beach days, birdwatching, nature trails, and spotting local wildlife including sea birds and alligators. It’s one of the best spots for travelers wanting to experience a quieter side of the Grand Strand.

Catch a Grand Strand Sunset on the Water

There’s something magical about a South Carolina summer sunset—especially from the water.

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Murrells Inlet is ending your day with a scenic cruise through the inlet while the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and gold. Pair it with dinner on the MarshWalk afterward, and you’ve got the perfect summer evening.

Visit Murrells Inlet and Crazy Sister Marina offer a multitude of options to enjoy the sunset from the water.

Aerial view of a vibrant sunset over a scenic riverside town. Ariel view of a Murrells Inlet sunset cruise by Visit Murrells Inlet.

Click here to check out all available sunset cruises.

Why Murrells Inlet Should Be Your Summer Home Base

While Myrtle Beach offers plenty of excitement, Murrells Inlet delivers a more authentic coastal experience with easy access to everything happening across the Grand Strand.

You’ll find:

Relaxed coastal charm
Easy access to beaches and attractions
Incredible seafood and waterfront dining
Family-friendly activities
Endless opportunities to get on the water

Most importantly, you’ll discover experiences that go beyond typical tourist attractions.

From dolphin cruises and fishing charters to eco tours and family adventures, summer memories start here.

If you’re planning a Grand Strand getaway this season, make Murrells Inlet more than just a stop—make it the highlight of your summer vacation.