This Beach Town is a Haven for Autistic Travelers

Myrtle Beach, located on the South Carolina coast, is celebrated for its warm climate, beautiful beaches along the Grand Strand, and exceptional golf courses. Recently, it has gained recognition as a leader in autism-friendly travel, thanks to local staff trained by the Champion Autism Network (CAN), sensory-friendly activities, and designated quiet hours. Notably, Surfside Beach became the first autism-friendly destination in the nation in 2016, certified by CAN.

Upon your arrival at Myrtle Beach International Airport, be sure to visit the airport’s autism Quiet Room—one of the earliest established in the U.S.—where you can take a moment for yourself, enjoy a snack, and organize a fun baggage claim activity to ease your travel transition. This is just the beginning of your journey in this inclusive destination. Don't forget to download CAN’s Autism Travel Club app to help you plan your visit, inform businesses of your needs as an autism family, and access discounts at autism-friendly eateries and attractions—all of which Myrtle Beach has in abundance.

In recent years, Myrtle Beach has expanded its offerings for individuals on the spectrum. It’s wise to plan ahead if you’re aiming to enjoy activities that are specifically designated for autism accessibility on certain days. There are numerous sensory-friendly hotels available, and with so many attractions and restaurants catering to autism, crafting an itinerary is straightforward.

Activities for Autistic Visitors in Myrtle Beach

Enjoying the outdoors in Myrtle Beach can include a leisurely walk through the expansive Brookgreen Gardens, a National Historic Landmark that features the Lowcountry Zoo, or basking in the gentle early-evening sun on the Grand Strand beaches once the crowds have thinned out. For nature enthusiasts seeking autism-friendly experiences, Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park offer great options.

For children eager for more sunshine fun, Myrtle Waves Water Park boasts 22 slides and a variety of attractions suitable for all ages. While at the Boardwalk, make sure to ride the SkyWheel, which stands at 187 feet—the tallest observation wheel on the East Coast—with temperature-controlled, glass-enclosed gondolas for a comfortable experience.

Theater enthusiasts will enjoy the family-friendly Original Motown Tribute Show. This performance is designed to avoid sudden strobe lights and loud sounds, making it perfect for those with sensory sensitivities. You can also visit CAN’s Facebook page for updates on sensory-friendly days at trampoline parks like Big Air and Sky Zone. Nothing beats the thrill of getting those endorphins flowing! Additionally, explore the indoor WonderWorks, an “amusement park for the mind,” and Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, where sloths and penguins capture the spotlight.

Sensory-Friendly Hotels in Myrtle Beach

The Grand Strand beaches feature a variety of sensory-friendly hotels and condos, providing numerous amenities and suitable accommodations for families of all sizes. Thomas Beach Vacations in North Myrtle Beach offers weekly rentals for units with two to five bedrooms, complete with full kitchens, pet-friendly options, and a selection of oceanfront and beachside properties equipped with pools, hot tubs, kiddie pools, lazy rivers, and more.

Located in a peaceful residential area of Myrtle Beach, Grande Shores Ocean Resort provides multi-room units along with a lazy river. For breathtaking views and direct access to the beach and pier, consider the Prince Resort at Cherry Grove Pier. Experience panoramic ocean and boardwalk views at Bay View on the Boardwalk. The Beach Colony Resort offers hammocks and a sauna for relaxation after a day at the beach. If your family prefers more space, look into vacation homes from Surfside Realty Beach Vacations in Surfside Beach.

Myrtle Beach Dining Options for Guests with Special Needs

Be sure to have your Autism Travel Club app ready, as many restaurants in Myrtle Beach provide discounts. The town’s reputation as an autism-friendly destination ensures trained staff and preferred seating options are widely available.

For delicious, sensory-friendly dining, try Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts or the seafood restaurant LuLu’s in North Myrtle Beach, along with Carolina Seafood & Steak and Angelo’s Steak & Pasta. If you're looking for something more casual, don’t miss the Loco Gecko beach shack.