Double Decker City Tour Through Myrtle Beach

Introduction: Discover Myrtle Beach from a New Perspective

Taking a city tour on a double-decker bus in Myrtle Beach offers more than just a sightseeing ride—it’s an opportunity to see the highlights with a fresh viewpoint. We’ve reviewed this experience based on detailed itineraries, honest traveler insights, and practical details to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the panoramic views from the open-air top deck give you a truly different look at the city and the ocean. Second, the knowledgeable guides bring the city’s stories to life, making the ride both entertaining and educational. Lastly, the value for $36.95 is notable considering the duration, sightseeing stops, and the chance to relax comfortably.

One aspect to keep in mind is the tour’s length—about 45 minutes—so it’s ideal as a quick overview rather than an exhaustive exploration. This tour suits families, solo travelers, and groups who want a fun, laid-back way to get familiar with Myrtle Beach’s key sights.

Good To Know

• Panoramic views from the open-air double-decker offer a unique perspective of Myrtle Beach’s coastline and cityscape.
• Engaging guides provide lively storytelling, making the tour both fun and informative.
• Convenient pick-up options at The Market Commons and Myrtle Beach enhance accessibility.
• Stops highlight iconic sites like Plyler Park, the historic pier, and Myrtle Beach’s largest gift shop.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a short sightseeing experience.
• Weather-dependent; poor weather may cause cancellations or rescheduling.

A Detailed Look at the Myrtle Beach Double Decker Tour

The Experience at a Glance

This 45-minute open-air tour combines sightseeing with storytelling, featuring a vibrant double-decker bus that allows you to stand on the top deck and soak in the views. It’s a relaxed way to get an overview of Myrtle Beach without the fatigue of walking or the expense of more extensive tours.

The tour is offered at $36.95 per person, a price that many might find reasonable considering the scenic views, the engaging commentary, and the convenience of multiple departure times and locations. With an average booking window of 190 days in advance, it indicates a steady demand from visitors eager to get a quick taste of the city.

The Pickup Locations and Scheduling

The tour offers two key pick-up points:

• The Market Commons (4002 Deville St): Available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays during evening hours. This location is ideal if you’re staying near the shopping and dining district, with free street parking and garages accessible via Parkopedia.com.
• Myrtle Beach (321 9th Ave N): Offers morning and afternoon departures on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, perfect for those staying closer to the beachfront.

Each pickup point is situated conveniently, with clear instructions on where to board, and travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early. This flexibility helps you plan your day and avoid missing the bus.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

Stop 1: The Market Common – The tour kicks off in this lively district, known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and sleek urban design. Your guide will probably share snippets about the area’s development, offering context for the city’s modern side before heading toward the oceanfront.

Stop 2: Beachfront Views & the Ferris Wheel – As you glide past Myrtle Beach’s second-largest Ferris wheel, you’ll get a sense of the lively, tourist-friendly atmosphere. The guide’s commentary often points out how this iconic attraction contributes to the city’s charm.

Stop 3: The Boardwalk and Public Spaces – The bus passes the wooden boardwalk, which was upgraded in 2022 with more durable materials like composite lumber, along with decks, shade sails, and public plazas. This part of the tour highlights the city’s efforts to blend beach charm with modern design.

Stop 4: Largest Gift Shop – Spanning roughly 26,000 to 35,000 square feet, this gift shop is a favorite for travelers wanting souvenirs or eclectic gifts. Passing by it, guides often mention the extensive display of over 70,000 items, making it the biggest in Myrtle Beach.

Stop 5: Plyler Park – Situated on Ocean Boulevard, this oceanfront public space is a hub for entertainment and local events. The guide might share stories about the park’s history and its role in the city’s social life.

Stop 6: Myrtle Beach Pier – Built in 1936 and extending about 900 feet over the Atlantic, this historic pier offers stunning views and a glimpse into the city’s maritime past. It’s an excellent photo stop and a good example of Myrtle Beach’s enduring seaside charm.

Final Stop: Atlantic Ocean – The tour ends with a panoramic view of the Atlantic, often accompanied by the guide sharing fun facts about the coastline and the city’s relationship with the sea.

What We Love About the Tour

The Views – The open-air top deck provides an unobstructed view of Myrtle Beach’s coastline, the Ferris wheel, and the bustling promenade. Travelers often mention that the “stunning views” make the short ride worthwhile, especially if you’re pressed for time but want that classic beach town vibe.

The Guides – Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. They bring stories to life and cater to different interests, whether it’s history, local culture, or hidden gems. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s “friendly and engaging” narration, which made the experience more personal.

The Convenience – With two pick-up locations and multiple departure times, it’s easy to fit the tour into a busy schedule. The free parking options at The Market Commons add to the ease, especially if you’re driving in.

The Authenticity – Unlike larger, cookie-cutter tours, this experience feels genuine, with guides sharing insights that go beyond the typical tourist script. For example, the story behind Plyler Park’s name or the updates to the boardwalk’s materials add depth to what might otherwise be surface-level sightseeing.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

Duration – At just 45 minutes, this tour is more of an overview than an in-depth exploration. Travelers looking to delve deeply into Myrtle Beach’s history or culture might find it too brief.

Weather Dependency – As an open-air tour, it’s strongly dependent on good weather. Rain or strong sun might impact comfort, and cancellations due to poor weather are possible, though they offer options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Group Size and Atmosphere – With a maximum of 50 travelers, it’s not overly crowded, but during peak seasons, it might feel a bit busy. However, guides tend to keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early if you want to secure your preferred time slot, especially in peak season.
• Arrive 15 minutes ahead of your scheduled departure for a smooth start.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sun protection, especially if you plan to stand on the open deck.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the panoramic views.
• If you’re staying near The Market Commons, take advantage of the free parking and explore the shopping and dining options afterward.
• Consider combining this tour with other activities like beach time or a visit to Plyler Park for a fuller day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This double-decker city tour is perfect for those who want a quick, enjoyable introduction to Myrtle Beach. It suits families with children, solo travelers eager to get oriented, or small groups looking for an easy, relaxed activity. It’s also great for visitors who appreciate storytelling and panoramic views without the commitment of a longer, more expensive tour.

If you’re visiting Myrtle Beach for the first time and want a friendly, scenic overview to kick off your trip, this experience will set the tone beautifully. It’s especially ideal on a clear, sunny day when the ocean views are at their best.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Double Decker City Tour offers a laid-back, scenic way to see some of Myrtle Beach’s most iconic sights, with friendly guides and stunning views. Its short duration makes it an excellent choice for a quick introduction, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer a relaxed pace.

While it doesn’t delve deeply into history or culture, it provides enough context and visual appeal to give you a sense of the city’s vibe. The tour’s affordability, combined with the convenience of multiple departure options, makes it a worthwhile addition to your Myrtle Beach itinerary.

This experience is best suited for travelers who value authentic storytelling, scenic overlooks, and easy access. If you enjoy seeing a city from above, learning quick facts, and having fun in the process, it’s a charming way to start or end your day in Myrtle Beach.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a great quick overview of Myrtle Beach.

What are the departure times?
At The Market Commons, departures are Monday at 5:30 PM, Wednesday at 6:00 PM, and Sunday at 7:00 PM. At Myrtle Beach, departures are Tuesday and Thursday at 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and Friday at 10:00 AM.

Where do I meet the bus?
The tour departs from two locations: The Market Commons (in front of Stone Theater and next to Cold Stone Creamery) and Myrtle Beach (at 321 9th Ave N). Arrive 15 minutes early.

Is parking free?
Yes, free parking is available on the street and in parking garages at The Market Commons area.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Since the tour is outdoors, it requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, this Myrtle Beach double-decker tour offers a friendly, scenic, and accessible way to get oriented with the city’s highlights. Whether you’re brief on time or just want a fun way to start your day, it’s an experience that combines the best views with engaging storytelling—well worth considering for your trip.