Double Decker City Tour Through Myrtle Beach

Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach? Our review of the Double Decker City Tour offers practical insights into this popular sightseeing experience. It’s a lively, 45-minute ride that promises panoramic ocean views from an open-air double-decker bus, paired with stories from a live guide. While we haven’t been on this tour ourselves, the setup and reviews suggest it could be a charming way to get a quick, visually engaging overview of the city.

What we like about this experience is the chance to see Myrtle Beach from high above, offering perspectives often missed on standard walking tours. Plus, the route through the bustling Market Commons and past iconic landmarks adds a layer of local flavor. One thing to consider is that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re after an in-depth exploration, this might be more of a snapshot than a comprehensive experience. It’s best suited for families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a light, scenic introduction to the city.

If you’re seeking a fun, relaxed way to familiarize yourself with Myrtle Beach’s highlights without breaking the bank, this tour could be a good pick. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a good view and want to learn a bit about the city’s key spots in a breezy ride.

Key Points

• Affordable and convenient at just $36.95 per person.
• Two pickup locations offer flexibility, with scheduled departures throughout the week.
• Panoramic ocean views from an open-top double-decker, perfect for photography.
• Engaging live guide commentary adds local insights and stories.
• Short but sweet 45-minute tour—ideal for a quick overview.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours ahead.

An In-Depth Look at the Myrtle Beach Double Decker Tour

The Double Decker City Tour is a straightforward, enjoyable way to get your bearings in Myrtle Beach without the commitment of a full-day tour. For just under $40, you’ll hop aboard a lively, open-air bus that whisks you through key areas, providing both scenic views and entertaining narration.

Starting Point and Schedule

You can choose between two convenient pickup spots: The Market Commons or Myrtle Beach downtown. The Market Commons, with its boutique shops, restaurants, and urban charm, makes an attractive starting point if you want to combine your tour with some light shopping or a meal. The downtown pickup is more central for those already in the city.

The tour departs at different times—early evenings from The Market Commons and mid-mornings or afternoons from the downtown location—offering some flexibility depending on your itinerary. Expect to arrive 15 minutes early, especially if you’re at the Myrtle Beach pickup, to ensure a smooth start.

The Itinerary and Highlights

The route includes several notable stops and scenic drives:

• The Market Commons: Starting in this vibrant district, the tour provides a glimpse of Myrtle Beach’s modern, urban side, with wide streets and stylish boutiques. It’s a good place to kick off your sightseeing.

• Drive past the second-largest Ferris wheel in the U.S.: This is a visual treat, especially for kids or anyone who loves carnival sights. The Ferris wheel’s towering presence is hard to miss, and the guide will likely share some fun facts.

• Beachfront boardwalk: Built with a focus on beach charm, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk features wooden crosswalks, raised decks, and shade sails. This area is lively and perfect for photos, with public plazas where you might pause and soak in the ocean breeze.

• Myrtle Beach’s largest gift shop: Spanning roughly 26,000 to 35,000 square feet, this shop is a treasure trove of souvenirs. With over 70,000 items, it’s a must-see for anyone wanting to pick up a keepsake or browse local merchandise.

• Plyler Park: A family-friendly oceanfront plaza, ideal for a quick stop. It’s right between the Boardwalk and the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, offering a snapshot of local life by the sea.

• Historic Myrtle Beach Pier: Built in 1936 and extending about 900 feet into the Atlantic, this pier is a classic landmark. It’s a reminder of Myrtle Beach’s long-standing seaside charm and might be a favorite photo spot.

• Atlantic Ocean views: The tour culminates with a sweeping view of the Atlantic, giving you that essential Myrtle Beach experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Despite its brief duration, the tour covers a broad spectrum of Myrtle Beach’s highlights, from lively shopping districts to historic landmarks. The open-air bus offers a unique vantage point that makes photography and sightseeing more immersive. The live guide adds personality and insight, making the quick ride feel personalized and engaging. Several reviews mention the knowledgeable guides as a highlight, with one noting how “the stories made the sights come alive,” even in just 45 minutes.

The panoramic views of palm trees and the ocean are a particular draw. You get a sense of the scale and layout of Myrtle Beach, which can help plan your more detailed exploration later in the trip.

Practical Details and Value

At $36.95, the price is reasonable for a guided sightseeing experience that includes views, narration, and transportation. The mobile ticket system simplifies the booking process, and the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind—particularly useful if weather turns sour.

The group size is capped at 50 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded, preserving a relaxed atmosphere. The tour’s short duration makes it a perfect addition to a day filled with other activities, especially if you’re pressed for time or want a gentle start to your sightseeing.

Considerations

The main limitation is the 45-minute length. For those eager to dive deep into Myrtle Beach’s history or culture, this might feel too brief. It’s more about surface-level exploration and sightseeing rather than an in-depth experience.

Also, since the tour depends on good weather, rain or thunderstorms could cause cancellations or less enjoyable rides. Thankfully, the policy offers rescheduling or full refunds.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a quick, scenic overview of Myrtle Beach. Families with children often enjoy the open-air ride and the visual spectacle of the Ferris wheel and boardwalk. Solo travelers and groups also find it a charming way to orient themselves before exploring further. It’s particularly good if you prefer a relaxed, narrated experience over walking or driving on your own.

Final Thoughts

The Double Decker City Tour offers a lively, visual introduction to Myrtle Beach that combines stunning ocean views with local sights and stories. It’s an accessible option that balances affordability with a memorable experience, especially if you enjoy sightseeing from above.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour, it provides a valuable orientation—making it easier to plan your subsequent adventures. The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops are what elevate this ride from just a bus tour to a pleasant, memorable part of your vacation.

If you value scenic views, relaxed storytelling, and a fun way to get your bearings, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially fitting for those with limited time or a desire for a light, engaging introduction to this lively coastal city.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 45 minutes, so it’s a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

What is the price per person?
It costs $36.95 per person, making it an affordable way to see a range of Myrtle Beach highlights.

Are there different pickup locations?
Yes, you can choose between The Market Commons (Monday, Wednesday, Sunday) and Myrtle Beach downtown (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday). Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for the panoramic views, and dress for the weather—since it’s an open-air bus, hats and sunscreen are advisable on sunny days.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families seem to enjoy the stops and the open-air ride, which is generally family-friendly.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather and may be canceled in poor conditions. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

How many people can join?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

In the end, this double-deck adventure offers a breezy, engaging way to kick off your Myrtle Beach trip with sweeping views and insightful commentary. Perfect for travelers wanting a taste of the city’s sights without a lengthy commitment.