| Island Adventure Watersports
Myrtle Beach is famous for its coastline, but some of the best boat tours happen on the Intracoastal Waterway — the calm, protected waterway that runs behind the beach. Whether you’re looking for a private party cruise, a scenic nature tour, or a relaxed afternoon on the water, there’s a boat tour for every group.
Here’s a breakdown of the best boat tour options in the Myrtle Beach area and what to expect from each one.
1. Private Tiki Boat Cruises
If you want a boat tour that feels like a party, tiki boat cruises are the move. These floating tiki bars come with music, tropical vibes, and room for your whole crew.
At Island Adventure Watersports, our tiki boat is one of the most popular tours we offer. Here’s why:
- Private booking — your group gets the entire boat
- BYOB welcome — bring your own drinks and snacks (no glass)
- Licensed captain handles everything — you just sit back and enjoy
- Up to 18 passengers per cruise
- Scenic route along the Intracoastal Waterway
- Cooler and ice provided
It’s the go-to choice for bachelorette parties, bachelor parties, birthday celebrations, and groups who want something more memorable than a restaurant dinner. Book your tiki cruise today.
2. Self-Guided Pontoon Boat Tours
Not every boat tour needs a captain. Pontoon boat rentals let you explore the Intracoastal Waterway at your own pace — no boating license required in South Carolina.
At Island Adventure Watersports, we offer:
- Pontoon boats (up to 9 passengers) starting at $299 for a half-day
- Tritoon boats (up to 12 passengers) for larger groups who want extra space and stability
- Bluetooth stereo, Bimini shade, all fuel included
Head south toward the Waccamaw Nature Preserve for wildlife and quiet waterways, or cruise north toward Barefoot Landing where you can dock at waterfront restaurants. Either way, it’s a full day of exploring without the crowds. Book your boat rental.
3. Fishing Charters
Myrtle Beach has dozens of fishing charter options — from inshore creek fishing to deep-sea trips out of Little River or Murrells Inlet. If your idea of a great boat tour involves a rod and reel, you’re in the right place.
Popular options include:
- Inshore charters in the creeks and marshes (redfish, flounder, trout)
- Nearshore trips for king mackerel and Spanish mackerel
- Offshore deep-sea charters for mahi, wahoo, and tuna
- Half-day, full-day, and sunset trips available
Check marinas in Little River, Murrells Inlet, and along the Intracoastal for charter availability.
4. Dolphin Cruises
Dolphin watching tours are a Myrtle Beach classic. Most depart from the MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet or from docks along the waterway. These are typically larger boats with open-air seating, narrated by a guide, and run about 1–2 hours.
Great for families with young kids who want a calmer, guided experience on the water.
5. Sunset Cruises
Some operators offer dedicated sunset cruises — timed to catch golden hour on the water. Our tiki boat is one of the best ways to do this: BYOB, music, a licensed captain, and a front-row seat to a Lowcountry sunset over the marsh.
Tips for Booking a Boat Tour in Myrtle Beach
- Book early. Peak season (June–August) fills up fast, especially weekends.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat. Even with shade, you’ll be in the sun.
- No glass containers on most boats — cans and plastic only.
- Check the weather. Tours may be rescheduled for storms. Most operators are flexible.
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and orientation.
- Wear shoes you can get wet. Flip-flops or water shoes work best.
Why the Intracoastal Waterway?
Unlike ocean-based tours, the ICW offers flat, calm water — no waves, no seasickness. That makes it ideal for families with kids, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone who wants to relax without worrying about rough seas. You’ll cruise past cypress trees, osprey nests, waterfront homes, and some of the most peaceful scenery on the Grand Strand.
Book Your Boat Tour Today
Ready to get on the water? Island Adventure Watersports offers private tiki boat cruises, pontoon and tritoon rentals, and more — all departing from our dock on Dick Pond Road in Myrtle Beach.
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