Myrtle Beach offers more than just sun and sand; it’s also a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of the area. Over time, I’ve discovered several shops that stand out for their variety and quality, making it easier to find meaningful keepsakes or presents for friends and family.

If you’re wondering where to shop for the best gifts in Myrtle Beach, I’ve identified five top spots that offer a mix of local charm and memorable items. These stores provide everything from quirky novelties to coastal décor, ensuring you can take a piece of your vacation home.

1) Gay Dolphin Gift Cove

When I walked into the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, I immediately noticed how much history the place holds. It’s been around since the 1940s, making it the oldest and largest gift shop in Myrtle Beach. The variety of items is impressive, ranging from seashells and jewelry to apparel and home decor.

What sets this shop apart for me were the unique photo spots scattered around. I found myself snapping pictures next to a lifesize Yeti, Elvis, and even Egyptian guardians. These fun installations make the visit feel more like an experience than just shopping.

The collectibles and shark teeth caught my attention as well. The selection is broad enough that you can find something for yourself or a gift that feels local and special. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff seemed knowledgeable when I asked questions about the different items.

Exploring the various sections, I noticed how well-organized everything was. It made browsing easy, and I appreciated the range of prices, which suited different budgets. This shop is more than just a place to buy souvenirs—it’s a place to take in the local vibe.

Rating: 4.5 (4038 reviews)
Location: 916 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Contact: (843) 448-6550
Website: Visit Website

2) Mole Hole

When I walked into Mole Hole, I immediately noticed the variety of quality gifts and collectibles. The store has been around since 1978, so their experience shows in the well-curated selection. It felt like a place that values both tradition and unique finds.

I was especially impressed by the wide range of jewelry, including Pandora beads and Swarovski pieces. The display was neat and inviting, making it easy to browse and find something special. There were also handbags and clocks that added to the variety without feeling overwhelming.

The staff were knowledgeable and ready to help, which made the shopping experience smoother. They offered suggestions without being pushy, helping me find gifts that stood out. Whether shopping in person or online, the store felt dedicated to quality and good customer service.

Rating: 4.5 (325 reviews)
Location: Broadway at the Beach, 1323 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Contact: (843) 626-7782
Website: Visit Website

3) The Wacky Rabbit

I visited The Wacky Rabbit while exploring Myrtle Beach and found it to be a charming gift shop with a unique selection. The store offers a variety of quirky and fun items that are perfect for souvenirs or gifts. It has a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to spend time browsing.

The staff was friendly and helpful when I asked about specific products. I appreciated the range of items available, from local themed gifts to novelty products. The shop’s location makes it convenient to stop by while visiting the area.

Prices were reasonable, and I noticed that many items were original or hard to find elsewhere. The Wacky Rabbit stands out for offering something different compared to typical tourist shops. It’s a solid choice if you want a gift that’s a bit more memorable.

Rating: 4.8 (55 reviews)
Location: 7702 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Contact: (843) 497-0717

4) Grasshopper

When I visited Grasshopper, I was impressed by their unique selection of bold apparel and accessories. They offer custom dog tags that you can personalize with any design or picture, which is something I hadn’t seen in many other shops around Myrtle Beach.

The staff were friendly and attentive, making my experience seamless. I saw people exchanging wrong sizes and damaged items without any hassle, which showed me they truly care about customer satisfaction. They also carry a large variety of shirts and hoodies, with prices that didn’t feel inflated compared to other stores nearby.

What stood out to me was the personal touch. One of the staff even went out of their way to brighten the day of a toddler who was a bit cranky, which made me feel like Grasshopper is more than just a shop—it’s a place where shoppers are treated like family.

If you’re looking for gifts or something custom and unique, I found this to be a great spot to visit instead of the typical souvenir stores.

Rating: 4.8 (160 reviews)
Location: 1103-B N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Website: Visit Website

5) Stupid Factory

When I visited Stupid Factory, I found it to be a fun and quirky gift shop. The variety of items ranges from humorous souvenirs to unique trinkets, making it a great stop for unusual gifts. The atmosphere feels casual and welcoming, perfect for browsing without pressure.

The staff were friendly and helpful when I had questions about the products. The location is easy to find in Myrtle Beach, making it convenient if you’re exploring other nearby attractions. Prices are reasonable, and they have items suitable for all ages.

I noticed many visitors taking their time to pick out fun gifts or novelty items. They have a good mix of classic Myrtle Beach souvenirs alongside more original and playful merchandise. It’s the kind of place that adds a lighthearted break during a busy day of sightseeing.

Rating: 4.2 (257 reviews)
Location: 1210 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Contact: (843) 353-3019

What Makes a Great Gift Shop in Myrtle Beach?

A great gift shop in Myrtle Beach stands out by offering items that truly reflect the local culture and charm. The shopping environment should be inviting and easy to explore. Friendly and knowledgeable staff also enhance the overall experience for visitors.

Unique Local Products

To me, the best shops focus on local specialties that give a sense of place. Items like seashell ornaments, coastal décor, and Myrtle Beach Pelicans apparel capture the spirit of the area. I look for products hard to find anywhere else, such as handcrafted gifts and region-specific souvenirs.

Local food products, like gourmet popcorn or specialty sauces, add to the uniqueness. I appreciate shops that blend traditional souvenirs with creative, distinctive pieces. This makes the gifts meaningful for both visitors and locals.

Shopping Experience

I expect a great shop to be well organized and comfortable. Spacious layouts with clear categories help me find what I want without hassle. Multi-level stores with varied sections encourage browsing.

Atmosphere matters. Light, clean, and welcoming environments make time spent browsing feel enjoyable. A mix of kitschy and sophisticated items keeps things interesting. The location, like a busy boardwalk or shopping district, adds convenience.

Customer Service

Friendly, helpful staff are key. When employees share knowledge about the products or local area, it improves my visit. I value assistance that feels genuine, not rushed or pushy.

A personal touch, like remembering return customers or suggesting gifts based on my needs, creates a positive impression. Efficient checkout and clear return policies also matter to me. Good customer service makes me want to come back.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Myrtle Beach Souvenir

When choosing a Myrtle Beach souvenir, it helps to focus on items that hold personal meaning or reflect the local culture. Selecting something unique or customizable ensures your keepsake stands out. I look for gifts that carry a story, show craftsmanship, or can be tailored to create a lasting memory.

Personalization Options

I often prioritize souvenirs with personalization features. Many shops offer custom engraving on items like ornaments, jewelry, or drinkware. Adding names, dates, or short messages makes these keepsakes more meaningful and unique.

Personalizing apparel, such as T-shirts or hats, is also common. Shops typically provide embroidery or print options to include vacation dates or custom slogans related to Myrtle Beach.

These touches not only turn a simple item into a cherished reminder but also make for thoughtful gifts. Always ask if customization is available before deciding, since it can add value without a significant price increase.

Supporting Local Artisans

I believe supporting local artisans enriches the souvenir experience. Handmade crafts, artworks, and jewelry show distinct coastal influence and South Carolina heritage.

Buying locally made goods often means higher quality and authenticity. You help sustain the local economy and preserve traditional crafts by choosing artisan products over mass-produced items.

Look for shops featuring coastal themes or original designs created by Myrtle Beach artists. These items tend to be unique and tell a story about the area’s culture. Sometimes, the artist’s studio is part of the shop, enabling direct conversations about the piece’s craftsmanship.

Let me know in the comments if you have any other top “what to buy” ideas!

About the Author 

Colin is the founder of SouvenirsIdeas.com and a passionate traveller with a soft spot for ceramics, markets, and food tours. He writes practical, first-hand guides to help you bring home souvenirs that actually mean something — not just more clutter!