Summer along the Grand Strand is all about sun-soaked days, crashing Atlantic waves, and making memories with the people you love. Whether you have spent the morning building sandcastles, exploring local golf courses, or strolling along the boardwalk, nothing beats the refreshing crunch of a freshly baked waffle cone filled with cold, handcrafted ice cream.
Finding the best ice cream in Myrtle Beach is practically a vacation rite of passage. From old-fashioned parlors with nostalgic charm to trendy ice cream shops loaded with creative toppings, the local dessert scene has something to satisfy every craving. Treat your family to a memorable sweet experience by visiting these five top-rated ice cream destinations in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach.
1. Sweet Molly’s Creamery
Located in the heart of Barefoot Landing, Sweet Molly’s Creamery is a beloved family-owned gem named after the owners’ rescued dog, Molly. It offers a prime location for grabbing a scoop while taking a scenic stroll along the Intracoastal Waterway.
What makes Sweet Molly’s truly special is its commitment to small-batch production. Every batch is made on-site using high-quality ingredients, resulting in an exceptionally rich and creamy texture.
Signature Flavors and Family Highlights
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Sea Salt Caramel: A smooth balance of sweet caramel infused with a touch of savory sea salt.
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Monster Dough: Creamy vanilla packed with chunks of chocolate chip cookie dough and fudge swirls.
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Custom Mix-Ins: Guests can choose from dozens of candies, nuts, and fruits folded directly into their favorite ice cream flavor on a chilled marble slab.
Families love Sweet Molly’s not only for its delicious treats but also for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor seating that overlooks the lake. It’s a fantastic stop for family treats in Myrtle Beach after an afternoon of shopping.
2. Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor
Stepping into Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor feels like taking a delightful trip back in time to 1890. With two locations along Kings Highway, this classic parlor features vintage mahogany woodwork, antique game machines, and a nostalgic carousel horse that kids adore.
Kirk’s has been serving local families and beachgoers for decades, earning a reputation as a staple for authentic homemade ice cream Myrtle Beach visitors return to year after year.
Menu Favorites
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Old-Fashioned Sundaes: Towering scoops topped with hot fudge, whipped cream, crushed nuts, and a bright red cherry.
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Fresh Waffle Cones: Hand-rolled daily, filling the entire shop with an irresistible vanilla aroma.
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Classic Flavors: Over 40 traditional choices ranging from Butter Pecan to Black Cherry.
After spending a long day under the South Carolina sun, gathering the family at Kirk’s for an evening sundae provides the perfect ending to a beach day.
3. Mad Myrtle’s Ice Creamery
If you are hunting for prime Myrtle Beach boardwalk desserts, Mad Myrtle’s Ice Creamery puts you right in the center of the action. Located directly on Ocean Boulevard, it is an ideal stop during an evening boardwalk stroll or after taking a turn on the famous SkyWheel.
Mad Myrtle’s delivers a classic beachside vibe with bright colors, friendly service, and a bustling energy that mirrors the excitement of downtown Myrtle Beach.
Why It’s a Boardwalk Favorite
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Creative Sundaes: Try their fun combinations loaded with waffle pieces, syrups, and whipped toppings.
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Milkshakes & Floats: Hand-spun milkshakes and classic root beer floats served ice-cold to beat the midday heat.
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Unbeatable Location: Grab your cone and walk straight out to enjoy ocean views while you eat.
It is one of the most accessible family-friendly dessert spots in Myrtle Beach for enjoying the vibrant nightlife of the Boardwalk.
4. Melt (North Myrtle Beach)
For serious ice cream connoisseurs, Melt, located in nearby Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, is an absolute must-visit destination. Melt has earned widespread acclaim and top local awards for crafting inventive, small-batch gourmet ice creams.
Melt takes pride in using premium dairy and high-grade ingredients to create bold, unforgettable flavor profiles. Even with lines extending down the sidewalk during peak summer evenings, the friendly staff keeps things moving quickly.
What to Try at Melt
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Praline Crunch: Smooth vanilla blended with sweet Southern pralines and a rich caramel ribbon.
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Seasonal Sorbets: Light, fruit-forward non-dairy options perfect for humid summer nights.
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Warm Homemade Waffle Bowls: Freshly pressed waffle bowls that hold double scoops effortlessly.
If you’re staying in North Myrtle Beach or taking a day trip up the coast, Melt is well worth the short drive for one of the best dessert experiences near Myrtle Beach.
5. Sugar Life Ice Cream & Candy Bar
Sugar Life Ice Cream & Candy Bar is a bright, candy-land-inspired paradise that promises pure joy for children and adults alike. With iconic, oversized neon signs and wall-to-wall candy bins, this spot is as much an entertainment experience as it is a dessert stop.
Sugar Life offers an impressive array of cold desserts alongside thousands of bulk candies, making it a standout choice for groups looking for variety.
Highlights & Offerings
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36+ Premium Flavors: From traditional chocolate to vibrant blue birthday cake batter.
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Self-Serve Frozen Yogurt: Customizable froyo stations paired with an endless topping bar.
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Massive Candy Wall: Fill a bag with vintage treats, gummy candies, and chocolates to take back to your vacation home.
It is easily one of the most fun things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids when you want to indulge their sweet tooth after dinner.
Insider Tips for Enjoying Ice Cream in Myrtle Beach
To get the most out of your coastal dessert adventures, keep these practical vacation tips in mind:
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Visit After Sunset to Avoid Peak Lines: Most popular ice cream shops see their biggest rush between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Head out right before dinner or late in the evening for a shorter wait.
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Pair Your Treat with a Scenic Walk: Grab your cone from a downtown spot and stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy cool ocean breezes.
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Share Large Sundaes: Coastal parlors are famous for generous Southern portion sizes. Sharing a giant banana split or specialty sundae is a budget-friendly option for families.
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Explore Local Seasonal Flavors: Keep an eye out for seasonal specials featuring South Carolina peaches or local pecans during mid-summer.
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Cool Off Post-Beach: Plan a mid-afternoon ice cream break right around 3:00 PM to take a breathers from peak UV rays and recharge.
Make Your Summer Vacation Even Sweeter with NPR Vacation Rentals
After a sun-filled day exploring coastal parks and sampling delicious Myrtle Beach vacation treats, there is nothing better than returning to a clean, spacious, and comfortable home base.
At NPR Vacation Rentals, we offer a premier selection of accommodations designed to give you the ultimate Grand Strand vacation experience. Whether you are searching for stylish Oceanfront Rentals with sweeping Atlantic views or spacious family homes near North Myrtle Beach Rentals, we have the perfect property for your group.
Why Guests Choose NPR Vacation Rentals:
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Unbeatable Locations: Stay just minutes from top beaches, golf courses, restaurants, and famous dessert shops.
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Fully Equipped Kitchens: Store your favorite ice cream tubs, cook family meals, and prepare beach snacks with ease.
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Private Oceanfront Balconies: Sip your morning coffee or enjoy an evening breeze while watching the waves.
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Comfort for Every Group: From cozy condos for couples to large oceanfront estates for family reunions.
Ready to plan an unforgettable summer getaway packed with sun, sand, and sweet memories? Explore all of our available vacation rental properties and book your stay directly with NPR Vacation Rentals today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most famous ice cream shop in Myrtle Beach?
Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor and Sweet Molly’s Creamery are two of the most famous shops in Myrtle Beach. Kirk’s is renowned for its 1890s nostalgic decor and classic sundaes, while Sweet Molly’s is famous for small-batch homemade ice cream at Barefoot Landing.
Are there dairy-free or vegan ice cream options in Myrtle Beach?
Yes! Many top Myrtle Beach shops, including Melt in North Myrtle Beach and Sugar Life Ice Cream & Candy Bar, offer dairy-free sorbets, oat milk ice creams, and vegan-friendly frozen treats.
What ice cream shops are located on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk?
Mad Myrtle’s Ice Creamery is located directly on Ocean Boulevard along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, offering convenient access to ocean views, milkshakes, and waffle cones.
Where can I get homemade waffle cones in Myrtle Beach?
Sweet Molly’s Creamery, Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor, and Melt all make fresh, homemade waffle cones in-house daily.
What are the best family-friendly dessert places in Myrtle Beach?
Sugar Life Ice Cream & Candy Bar and Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor are top choices for families due to their fun atmospheres, arcade games, vast topping selection, and candy displays.