4 Reasons to Book a Sunset Cruise on Your Next Vacation to Myrtle Beach

There’s something magical about ending a beach day with a stunning sunset on the water. The kind where the whole sky turns tangerine, then fades into soft pink and purple, and suddenly everything feels quiet. 

A sunset cruise offers the perfect mix of relaxation, beauty, and memory-making, and it’s easily one of the best things to do on your next Myrtle Beach vacation.

Locals often say the best way to see Myrtle Beach isn’t from the sand—it’s from the water. There’s a certain hush that falls over the coast when the sun starts dropping. 

The noise from the boardwalk fades. The air cools. That’s when you realize why so many people go for sunset cruises near Myrtle Beach, even if they’ve seen that same view a hundred times before.

According to Coastal Living Magazine, these evening cruises are among the top five romantic activities along the Grand Strand, ranking right beside oceanfront dining and scenic helicopter rides. And they’re not just for honeymooners or couples. Many visitors book them for birthdays, reunions, or simply to unwind after a long beach day.

1. Scenic Beauty and Breathtaking Views

Located along South Carolina’s Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is famous for its golden sands, lively boardwalk, and endless ocean views. The area is packed with attractions—fun-filled water sports, seafood restaurants, beach bars, arcades, and live music echoing down the pier. But a sunset cruise slows everything down.

If you’re looking to make your trip extra special, explore the variety of sunset cruises near Myrtle Beach. Some depart from Murrells Inlet, others from Little River or Barefoot Landing. The route doesn’t matter much—it’s the slow motion of the boat, the sound of the waves, the way the sunlight hits the water just right.

Many cruises include music, refreshments, and friendly local crews who share fun bits of history and trivia along the way. It’s a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day and experience Myrtle Beach from a whole new perspective.

The first time someone takes a sunset cruise here, they usually expect nice views. But what surprises most people is the silence. The ocean softens when the light fades, and suddenly you can hear the hum of the motor or the wings of pelicans passing low overhead.

Pro Tip: Bring a lightweight jacket, even in summer. Once the sun dips, the ocean breeze cools fast. And if you’re hoping for photos, sit on the port (left) side during departure—the light hits beautifully from that angle.

Some boats even host pre-cruise cocktail hours. It’s not loud or touristy—just a mellow start with a drink in hand, soft music, and the slow glow of sunset sneaking up on the horizon.

2. A Relaxing Escape from Everyday Life

When you spend time on the water, it naturally forces you to slow down. The world shrinks to a few simple things: the sound of waves, the feel of the wind, the occasional call of a gull. And suddenly, the to-do lists and work emails stop mattering for a bit.

Sunset cruises give you that kind of mental break. The gentle motion of the boat and the warm glow across the ocean are oddly grounding. It’s like meditation—but with better scenery.

Studies have even shown this. Frontiers in Psychology reported that being near water lowers stress and helps clear mental clutter. One regular cruiser wrote in a local review, “I go every year, even if I’m alone. There’s something about those last few minutes of light that just… resets you.”

Some tours feature live acoustic music or light commentary on the return trip. Nothing intrusive, just enough to fill the quiet. And when the first stars start showing up—tiny dots over the horizon—you realize the best part wasn’t the sunset itself. It was the calm that followed.

Pro Tip: Go on a weekday evening. Fewer boats mean smoother water, less crowding, and better reflection shots.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

A sunset cruise has this flexibility few other activities have. It works whether you’re a couple, a family, a friend group, or even flying solo. It’s not one of those experiences that depends on who you’re with—it adjusts to your mood.

Couples often book private charters for anniversaries or proposals. Some companies even set up champagne service or arrange surprise photo sessions during golden hour. Families prefer the narrated wildlife tours that keep kids entertained, while solo travelers usually choose small-group boats for the peace and space to think.

You can find all types of sunset cruises near Myrtle Beach:

• Romantic dinner cruises with candlelit meals and soft background music.
• Family-friendly dolphin tours with snacks, stories, and lively guides.
• Party boats with upbeat music and onboard bars for groups celebrating birthdays or reunions.

If you’re traveling with kids, go for shorter cruises (60–90 minutes). They’re long enough to enjoy the sunset but not so long that the little ones get restless.

For couples or small groups, the 2-hour versions are ideal—you’ll have time for drinks, dolphin sightings, and a slower sunset transition.

Pro Tip: Book early, especially in summer. Peak-season sunset cruises can sell out days ahead, particularly those departing from Murrells Inlet.

4. Provides Unique Experiences and Local Wildlife

Though Myrtle Beach is known for beach fun and boardwalk buzz, its sunset cruises offer more than just a view. Many tours include narrated segments about the region’s history and wildlife—stories of shipwrecks, early settlers, even a few pirate legends (yes, Blackbeard supposedly passed through these waters).

You might spot dolphins gliding beside the boat, pelicans diving for fish, or herons standing like statues along the marsh edges. On quieter evenings, rays sometimes appear near the surface, their wings flashing under the last bit of light.

According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the Grand Strand’s coastal waters are among the state’s richest habitats for marine life. Several cruise operators coordinate with local conservation groups, adjusting their routes to avoid disturbing feeding zones or nesting areas.

Pro Tip: Bring binoculars if you can. Even basic ones make spotting birds and dolphins easier—and it feels like a mini adventure within the cruise itself.

Here’s a quick comparison of the main cruise types you’ll find near Myrtle Beach:

If you’re staying in North Myrtle Beach, Little River offers quieter departures with smooth inland routes—great for those who prefer calm water. Barefoot Landing Marina cruises, meanwhile, give you views of waterfront restaurants twinkling to life as night sets in.

Even winter sunset cruises have their charm. The air is crisp, light soft, and the sunsets happen earlier, making them family-friendly and easy to fit into your day.

Conclusion

You should definitely consider booking a sunset cruise on your next Myrtle Beach visit. Whether you want to relax, celebrate something special, or simply spend quiet time with people you care about, a sunset cruise fits easily into any kind of trip.

The experience blends calm water, glowing skies, and maybe even a few dolphins curiously swimming by. But beyond that—it slows you down in the best way. It reminds you that vacations don’t have to be about constant motion or checking off activities. Sometimes, one peaceful evening watching the horizon fade is enough.

Even if you’ve visited Myrtle Beach before, seeing it from the water at sunset changes how it feels. You realize the coastline isn’t just about the beach—it’s about how light hits it, how the air shifts when day ends. And that’s what stays with you long after the trip ends.

Key Takeaways

• Unforgettable views. Sunset cruises show Myrtle Beach’s coastline at its most beautiful, with golden skies and calm water.
• Relaxation and calm. The motion of the boat and gentle breeze help ease stress and clear your mind.
• Great for everyone. Whether it’s a romantic date, family outing, or solo evening, there’s a cruise for every traveler.
• Local wildlife. Spot dolphins, pelicans, and other marine life along the Grand Strand.
• A lasting memory. A sunset cruise transforms an ordinary beach trip into something quietly extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions