What Can You Do at Barefoot Landing?
Barefoot Landing, located in North Myrtle Beach, is one of my favorite spots to visit, and it’s easy to see why. Karen and I have been coming here for years, and we love how Barefoot Landing combines shopping, dining, and entertainment all in one beautiful waterfront setting. Whether we’re popping in for a bite to eat after a day at the beach or taking a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk at sunset, there’s always something new to discover. If you’re visiting North Myrtle Beach or just looking for a fun day out, Barefoot Landing should definitely be on your list!
What Makes Barefoot Landing So Special?
Barefoot Landing is way more than just a shopping center—it’s an experience that captures the charm and vibrancy of coastal life. Located along the scenic Intracoastal Waterway, this open-air complex offers views of the water, making every visit feel like they are a part of the landscape. It’s a place where you can spend hours wandering through more than 60 specialty shops, from quaint local boutiques to well-known national brands, finding unique treasures you won’t see anywhere else along the Grand Strand.
But Barefoot Landing is not just about shopping—it’s also a foodie paradise. The variety of restaurants ranges from casual cafes perfect for a quick bite to upscale dining with waterfront views, offering everything from fresh seafood to juicy burgers and locally crafted beers. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a leisurely afternoon enjoying a meal with friends or grabbing a snack to fuel your shopping adventures.
What I believe really sets Barefoot Landing apart is the entertainment. Whether you’re watching a live performance at the iconic Alabama Theatre or catching an intimate concert at the House of Blues, there’s always something happening. Families will love visiting Alligator Adventure, where you can get up close and personal with fascinating wildlife, and during the summer months, the whole complex comes alive with weekly fireworks shows and outdoor music events.
The relaxed, coastal vibe makes Barefoot Landing feel like a world of its own, a favorite destination for not just tourists but locals as well, who come to enjoy not just the shops but the entire experience. It’s a place where every visit feels a little different, and you’ll always find something new to explore. Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or spending the whole day, Barefoot Landing offers a great blend of relaxation and excitement by the water.
Are Pets Welcome At Barefoot Landing?
Barefoot Landing welcomes the entire family, including four-legged, furry members. Whether visitors are bringing their pets along for a vacation or just taking them on a stroll, pets will enjoy exploring the property, grabbing a bite to eat*, shopping, or simply taking in the scenery.
*Pets are welcome at the discretion of individual merchants, so guests are encouraged to inquire about the businesses they’d like to visit beforehand.
*All pets must be on a leash or in a pet stroller, and owners are asked to clean up after them. Pet waste stations are located across the property.
Is Barefoot Landing a Good Place for Shopping?
Absolutely! Barefoot Landing offers a variety of shops ranging from national retailers to unique, local boutiques. Some of our personal favorites include:
- Monkee’s: An upscale women’s boutique featuring designer brands and personalized shopping experiences.
- The Mole Hole: A unique gift shop with distinctive finds.
- Ron Jon Surf Shop: Specializing in surfing and fishing gear.
- Sand & Sun: A store for all your beach gear needs.
- Quiet Storm Surf Shop: Another great option for beach essentials.
- Breezin’ Up: Known for graphic shirts and hoodies.
- Crabby Jack’s General Store: Offering gifts, local specialties, and convenient snacks.
- Francesca’s Collections: A trendy clothing store with fashionable accessories.
- Spice & Tea Exchange: A local gift shop specializing in spices, seasonings, loose-leaf teas, salts, and sugars.
Whether you’re in the market for a new outfit, gifts, or some coastal decor, Barefoot Landing has something for everyone.
What Dining Options Does Barefoot Landing Offer?
You won’t go hungry here! There are so many great places to grab a bite, and we’ve definitely tried our fair share. If you’re looking for fresh seafood, you can’t go wrong with Flying Fish Public Market & Grill. For something more casual, River City Café serves up some of the best burgers in town, but we love the Baja BLT chicken sandwich. And if you’re a fan of craft beer, you’ll want to stop by Crooked Hammock Brewery for a local brew. Below is a quick overview of some of the most popular Barefoot Landing Restaurants.
- LuLu’s: A laid-back spot with beach volleyball, live music, and stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Their coastal-inspired menu highlights favorites like the pimento burger topped with fried green tomatoes.
- Flying Fish Public Market & Grill: This waterside restaurant brings a touch of the west coast fish market vibe right to the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Umberto’s: A cozy Pittsburgh-style Italian trattoria serving up delicious appetizers, hearty entrées, and mouthwatering desserts.
- Crooked Hammock Brewery: A fun, family-friendly brewery with a diverse menu, including options just for the kids.
- The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood: Right in the heart of Restaurant Row, this spot is famous for its all-you-can-eat crab legs buffet.
- Rockefeller’s Raw Bar: A relaxed, no-frills seafood joint just north of Barefoot Landing.
- Joe’s Bar and Grill: A local favorite for casual fine dining with a warm, welcoming vibe.
What Kind of Entertainment is Available at Barefoot Landing?
Can You Catch a Show at Barefoot Landing?
Yes! Barefoot Landing is home to the popular Alabama Theatre, where you can enjoy high-energy musical performances and comedy shows. We’ve caught several shows here, and it’s always a great time. Check out their show calendar here. Review an interactive seating chart here.
You can also visit House of Blues, which offers live concerts from top artists across multiple genres. Check out their event calendar here. They also have become famous for their Gospel Brunch. Every Sunday, guests can enjoy great food accompanied by live gospel music. Continuous seating is available from 9 AM to 1 PM, and reservations are recommended by calling 843-913-3746. Pricing is $42 for adults, $20 for children aged 4-10, and free for children three and under. Please note that pricing may vary on holidays.
Is There Family-Friendly Fun at Barefoot Landing?
If you’re visiting with kids, there are a lot of activities to keep them entertained. Alligator Adventure is a fun and educational experience where you can see live alligators, turtles, and other reptiles up close. Plus, the weekly fireworks shows during the summer are a hit with families! Dennis and I love grabbing some ice cream and watching the fireworks light up the sky—it’s a great way to end the night. Learn more here.
How Do You Get to Barefoot Landing?
Barefoot Landing is conveniently located along Highway 17 in North Myrtle Beach. If you’re coming from Myrtle Beach, it’s just a short drive north. Parking is plentiful, and there are several lots throughout the complex.
To learn more information and get directions, you can visit the official Barefoot Landing website: Barefoot Landing.
When is the Best Time to Visit Barefoot Landing?
Honestly, anytime is a great time to visit Barefoot Landing! However, if you want to enjoy live entertainment, summer evenings are perfect because the complex often hosts outdoor concerts and other events. During the cooler months, Barefoot Landing is a peaceful retreat with fewer crowds, and you can enjoy a quieter experience strolling along the water.
Plan Your Visit to Barefoot Landing Today!
Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs, looking for a great meal, or just want to enjoy some entertainment, Barefoot Landing has something for everyone. We always have a wonderful time here, and we’re sure you will, too!
If you’re planning a trip to the Carolinas, don’t forget to check out more of our local tips and recommendations on the blog! Spend some time exploring “Carolinas Like A Local” for more hidden gems, travel tips, and the best local spots in Myrtle Beach and beyond.
Dennis Stemmle is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and lecturer at Coastal Carolina University. He writes about travel, college success, and entrepreneurship.