| Island Adventure Watersports
If you’re visiting Myrtle Beach and looking for the ultimate on-the-water thrill, jet skiing should be at the top of your list. With miles of protected waterways, warm weather from spring through fall, and several outfitters to choose from, Myrtle Beach is one of the best places in the Southeast to ride a jet ski.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Where to Go Jet Skiing in Myrtle Beach
Most people assume jet skiing in Myrtle Beach means riding in the ocean. The reality is better — the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is where the best jet ski experiences happen. Here’s why:
- Calm, flat water — no unpredictable ocean swells or rough surf
- Protected nature preserves — ride past cypress trees, Spanish moss, ospreys, turtles, and untouched shorelines
- More freedom — open riding areas without crowded beach traffic or swimming zones to dodge
- Suitable for all skill levels — beginners feel comfortable, and experienced riders can open it up
At Island Adventure Watersports, we’re located directly on the ICW with an exclusive riding area inside a nature preserve. It’s the smoothest, safest, and most scenic jet ski experience you’ll find in the Myrtle Beach area.
Jet Ski Rentals vs. Guided Tours
There are two main ways to get on the water:
Hourly Jet Ski Rentals
This is the classic experience. You get a jet ski for one hour and ride freely within a designated area on the Intracoastal Waterway. You control the pace — go fast, cruise slow, or stop and soak it all in. Our Yamaha VX jet skis seat two riders each, and pricing starts at $125 per hour per jet ski. Everything is included: fuel, life jackets, safety instruction, and gear.
Backcountry Jet Ski Tours
If you want to see more of the waterway and explore hidden spots you’d never find on your own, our guided 2-hour Backcountry Jet Ski Tour is the way to go. You’ll cover over 50 miles of the ICW, ride through secret creeks and tributaries, and stop at a nature preserve midway for photos and a break. It’s the top-rated jet ski tour in Myrtle Beach for a reason. Tours start at $220 per jet ski.
Best Time to Go Jet Skiing in Myrtle Beach
Season: Jet skiing runs from roughly March through October in Myrtle Beach. Peak season is June through August, when water temperatures are warmest and days are longest.
Time of day: Morning rides offer the calmest water and coolest temperatures. Late afternoon brings golden-hour light and great photo opportunities. Midday in summer can be hot — bring sunscreen and water.
Weather: The ICW is far more forgiving than the ocean when it comes to weather. Light wind and overcast days are still great for riding. We only cancel for severe weather or lightning.
What to Expect on Your First Ride
Never been on a jet ski before? No experience is needed. Here’s how it works:
- Check in at our dock on the Intracoastal Waterway
- Safety briefing — our team covers all the basics: throttle, steering, turning, stopping, and right-of-way rules
- Gear up — we provide life jackets for all riders
- Ride — head out with confidence on calm, flat water surrounded by nature
- Return — dock up when your time is done
Riders must be 18 or older to operate a jet ski. Passengers of any age are welcome with a supervising adult on board.
What to Bring
Pack light — you’re going to get wet.
- Swimsuit and quick-dry clothes
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sunglasses with a strap (polarized lenses cut the water glare)
- Water shoes or sandals with a strap — flip-flops fly off
- Waterproof phone case — you’ll want photos
- Towel and dry change of clothes for after
We have everything else covered: life jackets, jet skis, fuel, and safety gear.
How Much Does Jet Skiing Cost in Myrtle Beach?
Pricing varies by outfitter and experience type. At Island Adventure Watersports:
| Experience | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Jet Ski Rental | 1 hour | Starting at $125/jet ski |
| Backcountry Jet Ski Tour | 2 hours (guided) | Starting at $220/jet ski |
Each jet ski seats two riders, so riding with a partner makes it an even better value. All pricing includes fuel, gear, and instruction — no hidden fees.
Safety Tips for Jet Skiing in Myrtle Beach
Jet skiing is one of the safest watersports when you follow basic guidelines:
- Always wear your life jacket — it’s required by South Carolina law
- Respect the speed zones — no-wake zones exist for a reason, especially near docks and swimmers
- Stay in your designated area — outfitters have mapped riding areas for your safety
- Keep a safe following distance — jet skis don’t have brakes, so give yourself room
- Listen to your safety briefing — our team covers everything you need to know before launch
The Intracoastal Waterway’s calm, flat conditions make it significantly safer than ocean jet skiing, where waves, currents, and boat traffic create additional hazards.
Why Island Adventure Watersports?
We’ve been operating on the Intracoastal Waterway since 2012 and have served thousands of guests from around the world. Here’s what sets us apart:
- 1,000+ five-star reviews across Google, TripAdvisor, and Yelp
- Exclusive riding area inside a protected nature preserve
- Brand-new Yamaha VX fleet — maintained and cleaned daily
- All-inclusive pricing — fuel, gear, instruction, no hidden costs
- Expert staff — friendly, experienced, and safety-focused
Whether it’s your first time on a jet ski or you ride every summer, the Intracoastal Waterway in Myrtle Beach is one of the best places in the country to do it.
Ready to Ride?
Jet skiing in Myrtle Beach is an experience you won’t forget. Book your jet ski rental or backcountry tour today and find out why Island Adventure Watersports is the area’s #1 watersports outfitter.
Have questions? Call us at (843) 650-7003 — we’re happy to help you plan the perfect day on the water.
