Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheels: The Ultimate Guide to Sky-High Views
Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheels: An Iconic Coastal Experience
There’s something magical about seeing Myrtle Beach from above. The salty breeze on your face, the Atlantic stretching endlessly below, and the glow of the boardwalk lights twinkling to life at sunset make Ferris wheels true icons of the Grand Strand. Whether you’re riding the soaring Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, gazing over Broadway at the Beach, or soaking up seaside nostalgia at Family Kingdom, these rides turn every spin into a memory worth capturing. And when your feet are back on the ground, Myrtle Beach piers, photo-ready attractions, and oceanfront boardwalk strolls keep the picture-perfect moments coming.
Why Ride the Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheels?
Myrtle Beach Ferris wheels aren’t just rides. They’re part of the city’s identity. Each one offers a unique perspective on the coastline, whether it’s the sparkling Atlantic by day, glowing boardwalk lights at night, or the gentle hush of waves below. For travelers, they’re the perfect mix of thrill and relaxation, with every rotation offering another chance to snap the kind of photo you’ll want to frame.
Highlights at a glance:
- Panoramic ocean views from 150 to 200 feet in the air
- Instagram-worthy shots both day and night
- Iconic wheels: SkyWheel, Family Kingdom Ferris Wheel, and Broadway 360 Observation Wheel
- Nearby attractions and dining to round out your visit
- Best photo ops at sunset or during off-season when crowds thin out
SkyWheel Myrtle Beach: A Boardwalk Icon

The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is impossible to miss. Towering 200 feet above the oceanfront boardwalk, it has been dazzling visitors since 2011. The experience starts the moment you step into one of its 42 glass gondolas. Inside, the climate control keeps things comfortable year-round, while the ride itself delivers jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic and the bustling boardwalk below.
Unlike most Ferris wheels, the SkyWheel offers complete privacy. Each group rides in their own cabin, making it especially appealing for couples on a date night, families sharing laughs, or solo travelers looking for quiet reflection above the waves. And once you’re back on the ground, the adventure doesn’t have to end. Just steps away, LandShark Bar & Grill serves up oceanfront dining with a casual, coastal vibe. Their Fly & Dine package is a favorite, bundling the ride with a hearty meal.
Broadway 360 Observation Wheel

Over at Broadway at the Beach, the Broadway 360 lifts you 150 feet above one of the liveliest hubs in Myrtle Beach. From the top, you’ll see a colorful patchwork of shops, restaurants, and attractions circling the lake at the heart of the complex. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause mid-ride to take it all in.
A ride here pairs perfectly with a day of exploring Broadway. Take the kids to Ripley’s Aquarium, test your putting skills at mini golf, or stick around for one of the evening dinner shows. With so much happening just below, Broadway 360 is more than a ride. It’s a bird’s-eye introduction to the fun waiting at Myrtle Beach’s top entertainment destination.
Family Kingdom Ferris Wheel

If you crave a little nostalgia, the Family Kingdom Ferris Wheel delivers in spades. Perched within the classic seaside amusement park, this ride offers sweeping views of the Atlantic while capturing the charm of old-school boardwalk fun.
From the top, the coastline stretches in both directions, while below, the laughter of kids and the whoosh of roller coasters fill the air. After your ride, it’s worth wandering the park. The Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster rattles with vintage character, the Log Flume offers a splashy thrill, and the Go-Karts keep the competitive spirit alive. By night, the whole park glows with lights, making the Ferris wheel shine as the centerpiece of Family Kingdom’s nostalgic atmosphere.
Scenic Piers for More Photo Ops
Of course, Myrtle Beach’s beauty isn’t limited to the skyline. From the piers, the ocean rises to meet you; the crash of the surf below and the endless horizon ahead turning a simple stroll into a moment of reflection.
- 2nd Ave Pier: Stretching into the Atlantic, this pier is perfect for sunrise walks, fishing excursions, or snapping photos with the boardwalk in the background. Anglers love it for the flounder and trout that bite here, while photographers flock to capture those cotton-candy dawn skies.
- Veterans Pier at Murrells Inlet MarshWalk: A quieter escape, this pier honors those who served while giving visitors a front-row seat to the marsh. Come sunset, the water becomes a mirror, catching every color of the sky and creating reflections too beautiful not to capture. It’s also a favorite for bird watchers and fishermen, with the bonus of being free to stroll. Afterward, stick around for a bite at one of the Murrells Inlet restaurants along the MarshWalk, where fresh seafood and waterfront views complete the experience.
Things to Do Near the Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheels
Your photo tour doesn’t end when the Ferris wheel ride does. Every location has its own discoveries waiting nearby.
If you’re on the Boardwalk, stroll past arcades, live music venues, and shops before treating yourself to a bite of coastal cuisine. Over at Broadway at the Beach, you’ll find a blend of attractions that range from family-friendly fun to nightlife hotspots. And just a short drive away, the Hollywood Wax Museum lets you pose with eerily lifelike celebrity replicas, a playful twist for your photo album. For something truly unforgettable, hop on a helicopter ride and see the Grand Strand from an entirely new perspective.
Tip: For even more inspiration, explore Myrtle Beach attraction brochures.
Visitor Tips for Riding the Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheels
Want the best experience? Timing and planning make all the difference.
The most magical moment to ride is at sunset, when the sky paints itself in pinks and oranges and the lights of Myrtle Beach begin to twinkle below. At night, the Ferris wheels glow against the skyline, offering a totally different vibe than daytime rides.
If you’d rather avoid the crowds, weekday mornings or off-season months like March and October are your best bet. Lines are shorter, and the slower pace gives you more time to soak in the views. In summer, keep an eye out for fireworks shows along the boardwalk, while winter brings a cozy charm with festive lights.
Parking is straightforward, with numerous paid lots and garages near both the Boardwalk and Broadway at the Beach.
FAQs About the Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheel
How tall is the Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheel?
Rising 200 feet into the air, the SkyWheel stands among the Southeast’s tallest Ferris wheels.
How much does it cost to ride the SkyWheel?
Adult tickets are currently $20.99 plus tax. Children ages 3–11 ride for $16.99, and kids 2 and under are free. Since prices are subject to change, it’s a good idea to confirm on the official SkyWheel website before your visit.
Is the Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheel open year-round?
Yes, the SkyWheel operates year-round thanks to its climate-controlled gondolas, though hours may vary by season.
Where can I park for the Ferris Wheel?
Several paid lots and garages are available near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, within walking distance of the SkyWheel.
Capture the Magic of Myrtle Beach Ferris Wheels
From the glowing lights of the SkyWheel to the vintage charm of the Family Kingdom Ferris Wheel, Myrtle Beach’s skyline wouldn’t be the same without its soaring rides. Pair those sky-high views with scenic piers, oceanfront dining, and boardwalk strolls, and you’ll have endless opportunities to snap unforgettable photos. For even more inspiration, explore things to do in Myrtle Beach. Grab your camera, hop aboard, and let the Myrtle Beach Ferris wheels lift your vacation memories to new heights.
Content on this page is subject to change. Please contact the locations mentioned to see if promotions, hours, pricing, etc. are still valid.
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