You can’t miss the Skywheel Myrtle Beach, one of the area’s most popular attractions, which rises out of the 1.9 kilometre long Oceanfront Boardwalk and Promenade. Climb aboard one of the 42 air conditioned gondolas and enjoy unrivalled views of the South Carolina coastline.
A ride lasts 10 to 12 minutes and completes three rotations of the wheel, reaching a height of around 57 metres. The pace is relatively slow, giving you time to take some fantastic panoramic photographs. Each gondola carries up to six people. However, if you book in advance it may be possible for you to travel in smaller numbers and have a gondola to yourself, if you prefer.
A VIP package is also available. If you buy tickets in advance for the VIP Gondola, you can avoid the queue and a board a special gondola complete with leather seats and a glass floor, which offers views from a whole new perspective. The journey also lasts longer, completing six rotations of the wheel compared to the usual three.
For an even more memorable experience of the SkyWheel you should visit after dark when the wheel is lit up by more than a million coloured LED lights that pulse and glow creating a spectacular night time light show.
After your SkyWheel experience comes to an end, step off and visit the Landshark Bar and Grill opposite, which is owned by musician Jimmy Buffett. As well as the bar, there is a spacious restaurant overlooking the water, which has an informal atmosphere conducive to a relaxed evening. The bar has a great selection of cocktails and beers including the house special, Landshark Lager. There are plenty of venues in both directions along the North Ocean Boulevard if you feel like moving on.
The LandShark SurfShack just next door offers a selection of SkyWheel merchandise, which make great souvenirs or gifts.
Situated on Ocean Boulevard, SkyWheel is open daily. Exact operating hours are subject to seasonal change so you should check the website or phone in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the SkyWheel ticket office or online.