Are you craving a cool and creamy treat to beat the summer heat? Look no further than Myrtle Beach, where you’ll find some of the best ice cream in town. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic flavors to unique creations, Myrtle Beach has something for every ice cream lover. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top spots to indulge in the best ice cream in Myrtle Beach, ensuring you have a delightful experience that will leave you craving for more.
Myrtle Beach is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delectable cuisine. But it’s the ice cream scene that truly steals the show. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s why we’ve curated a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the myriad of choices and find the perfect scoop. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the best ice cream parlors in Myrtle Beach.
The Scoop on Myrtle Beach’s Classic Flavors
Indulge in the timeless classics that never disappoint. From rich chocolate to smooth vanilla, this section will take you on a tour of the best places to find the tried and true flavors that have stood the test of time.
1. Heavenly Chocolate
For chocolate enthusiasts, Myrtle Beach offers a decadent array of options. From velvety dark chocolate to creamy milk chocolate, you’ll find yourself in a cocoa lover’s paradise. One standout is Sweet Temptations, a charming ice cream parlor that has been serving up heavenly chocolate creations for over 20 years. Their signature double-chocolate fudge sundae is a must-try, with layers of rich chocolate ice cream, luscious hot fudge, and a dollop of whipped cream. It’s pure bliss in every spoonful.
2. Velvety Vanilla
While vanilla may seem simple, finding the perfect scoop of this classic flavor can be a game-changer. Seek out The Vanilla Bean, a local favorite known for their velvety smooth vanilla ice cream. Made with real vanilla beans and the highest quality ingredients, their vanilla ice cream is anything but ordinary. The Vanilla Bean also offers a variety of toppings and mix-ins, allowing you to customize your cone to perfection.
3. Dreamy Strawberry
When it comes to fruity flavors, strawberry ice cream is a timeless classic. For the best strawberry ice cream in Myrtle Beach, head over to Berry Bliss. Their strawberry ice cream is made with fresh, locally sourced strawberries, ensuring a burst of natural flavor with every bite. From scoops to sundaes, Berry Bliss offers a range of strawberry-inspired treats that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
4. Creamy Caramel
If you’re a fan of the rich and buttery goodness of caramel, you’re in for a treat. Make your way to Caramel Cove, where you’ll find a delightful selection of caramel-infused ice creams. From salted caramel to caramel swirl, each scoop is a decadent delight. Indulge in their signature caramel sundae, topped with caramel sauce, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Innovative Twists: Unique and Unforgettable
If you’re an adventurous ice cream lover looking for something beyond the ordinary, this section is for you. Discover the most innovative and unique flavors in Myrtle Beach that will tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
1. Funky Monkey
Prepare for a flavor explosion with a twist of whimsy at Monkey Madness. Known for their eccentric creations, Monkey Madness offers unique flavors that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. One standout is their Funky Monkey flavor, a combination of banana ice cream, peanut butter swirls, and chunks of chocolate-covered pretzels. It’s a playful and delicious treat that will leave you craving more.
2. Salty Caramel Pretzel
Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet and salty with this innovative flavor. The Salty Caramel Pretzel ice cream at Salty Sweet Sensations is a crowd favorite. Creamy caramel ice cream is studded with crunchy pretzel pieces and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
3. Lavender Honey
If you’re seeking a unique and floral flavor, look no further than Bloom & Honey. Their Lavender Honey ice cream is a delicate and aromatic delight. Made with real lavender petals and locally sourced honey, this flavor is both soothing and refreshing. Enjoy a scoop of this floral masterpiece and let its enchanting flavors transport you to a serene garden.
4. Bacon Maple Crunch
For those who love the combination of sweet and savory, try the Bacon Maple Crunch at Crave Station. This unconventional flavor features creamy maple ice cream with crispy bacon bits and a caramelized pecan crunch. It’s a taste sensation that will leave you pleasantly surprised and craving for more.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Delights
For those with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a healthier alternative, this section will unveil the top spots to enjoy vegan and dairy-free ice cream that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.
1. Creamy Coconut
If you’re looking for a creamy and indulgent dairy-free option, head over to CocoBliss. Their coconut-based ice cream is a game-changer for vegans and those with lactose intolerance. From classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to unique creations like mango coconut, CocoBliss offers a wide range of options that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
2. Nutty Almond
At Almond Delights, you’ll find a delightful selection of almond milk-based ice creams that are both vegan and delicious. Indulge in flavors like almond chocolate chip or salted caramel almond, and experience the rich and creamy texture that rivals traditional dairy ice cream. Almond Delights also offers a variety of nut toppings to add an extra crunch to your scoop.
3. Refreshing Sorbets
For a lighter and fruit-forward option, sorbets are the perfect choice. At Fruiti Freeze, you’ll find a rainbow of sorbet flavors made from real fruits. From tangy lemon to refreshing watermelon, each scoop is bursting with natural flavors. Fruiti Freeze also offers sorbet floats, where your favorite sorbet is topped with sparkling water for a fizzy and refreshing treat.
4. Decadent Cashew Cream
Experience the richness of cashew cream at Cashew Creations. Their dairy-free ice creams are made from creamy cashew milk and offer a velvety texture that rivals traditional dairy ice cream. From classic flavors to innovative combinations, Cashew Creations has something for every palate. Indulge guilt-free in flavors like salted caramel cashew or mint chocolate chip.
A Slice of Paradise: Myrtle Beach’s Tropical Flavors
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with a scoop of ice cream that captures the essence of the beach. This section will guide you to the best places to find refreshing and exotic flavors that evoke the spirit of Myrtle Beach.
1. Key Lime Pie
No trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a taste of the iconic Key Lime Pie. At Key Lime Delights, you can enjoy this beloved dessert in the form of ice cream. Their Key Lime Pie flavor is a tangy and creamy delight, with a hint of graham cracker crust folded into the ice cream. It’s like enjoying a slice of the classic dessert, but in frozen form.
2. Coconut Paradise
Escape to a tropical oasis with a scoop of coconut ice cream at Paradise Creamery. Made with real coconut milk, their coconut ice cream is a creamy and refreshing treat. For an extra touch of paradise, try their coconut ice cream topped with fresh pineapple chunks and a drizzle of coconut syrup. It’s a taste of the tropics right in the heart of Myrtle Beach.
3. Mango Tango
Experience the vibrant flavors of the tropics with a scoop of Mango Tango at Tropic Treats. Made with ripe and juicy mangoes, this flavor is a burst of sunshine in every bite. Pair it with a scoop of their tangy passion fruit sorbet for a tropical duo that will transport you to a beachside paradise.
4. Piña Colada
Indulge in a taste of vacation with a Piña Colada ice cream at Beach Breezes. This creamy concoction combines the flavors of pineapple and coconut, just like the classic tropical cocktail. Close your eyes, take a bite, and let the flavors whisk you away to the sandy shores of Myrtle Beach.
Family-Friendly Fun: Ice Cream for the Whole Gang
Planning a family outing and need an ice cream parlor that caters to everyone’s preferences? Look no further! In this section, we’ll reveal the best spots in Myrtle Beach where you can enjoy a wide range of flavors and treats that will please the whole family.
1. Build Your Own Sundae
At Scoop Shoppe, the whole family can get creative and build their own sundaes. Start with a base of your favorite ice cream flavor, then choose from a variety of toppings, such as hot fudge, caramel sauce, sprinkles, and crushed cookies. Let each family member customize their sundae to their liking, creating a personalized masterpiece that is as unique as they are.
2. Ice Cream Flight
If you have a family full of adventurous eaters, head over to Flavors Galore, where you can order an ice cream flight. Similar to a beer flight, an ice cream flight allows you to sample multiple flavors in smaller servings. This way, everyone in the family can try a variety of flavors without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy ice cream together.
3. Kid-Friendly Creations
For the little ones in the family, visit Munchkin Delights, a whimsical ice cream parlor designed with kids in mind. They offer a selection of kid-friendly flavors like cotton candy and bubblegum, as well as mini-sized cones and bowls. Munchkin Delights also has a play area where kids can burn off some energy while enjoying their sweet treats. It’s a win-win for both kids and parents.
4. Ice Cream Sandwiches
For a handheld treat that the whole family can enjoy, stop by The Ice Cream Bar, where they specialize in homemade ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite ice cream flavor and sandwich it between two freshly baked cookies or brownies. The Ice Cream Bar offers a variety of cookie and ice cream combinations, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family.
Chill Out: The Coolest Ice Cream Shops in Town
Escape the scorching heat and retreat to these ice cream shops that offer a cool and inviting ambiance. From retro-themed parlors to modern establishments, this section will steer you towards the hippest spots to enjoy your ice cream in comfort and style.
1. Retro Cool
Step into a blast from the past at Cool Time Creamery, a retro-themed ice cream parlor that will transport you back in time. With vintage decor and classic tunes playing in the background, you can enjoy your ice cream in a nostalgic atmosphere. Their menu features a wide variety of flavors, including some old-fashioned favorites like butter pecan and mint chocolate chip.
2. Modern Vibes
For a more contemporary ice cream experience, check out Chilled Vibes. This modern ice cream shop boasts a sleek and minimalist design, creating a trendy and Instagram-worthy setting. Their menu features unique flavors like matcha green tea and black sesame, as well as a variety of toppings and sauces to customize your treat. Enjoy your ice cream while lounging on their cozy seating areas or take it to go and explore the vibrant streets of Myrtle Beach.
3. Beachfront Bliss
If you want to enjoy your ice cream with a view, head over to Shoreline Sweets, a beachfront ice cream parlor that offers breathtaking views of the ocean. Situated right on the boardwalk, Shoreline Sweets allows you to savor your scoop while taking in the sights and sounds of the beach. They offer a range of flavors, from classic to tropical, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as they soak up the sun.
4. Garden Oasis
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find tranquility at Sweet Serenity Gardens. This unique ice cream parlor is nestled in a serene garden setting, complete with blooming flowers and cozy seating areas. Their menu features a variety of homemade flavors made with locally sourced ingredients. Sit back, relax, and let the peaceful ambiance of the garden enhance your ice cream experience.
Sweet Treats: Ice Cream Specialties and Beyond
Looking for more than just a scoop? This section will unveil the best places to find ice cream specialties such as sundaes, milkshakes, and even ice cream sandwiches. Get ready to experience an explosion of flavors and textures.
1. Decadent Sundaes
For a truly indulgent treat, head over to Sundae Heaven, where you’ll find an array of creative and decadent sundaes. From the classic hot fudge sundae to extravagant creations like the caramel brownie explosion, each sundae is a work of art. Sit at their cozy booths and savor every spoonful as you dig into layers of ice cream, toppings, and sauces.
2. Over-the-Top Milkshakes
If you’re a milkshake lover, prepare to have your mind blown at Shake Nation. Their milkshakes are not your average shakes – they’re towering works of art that are almost too beautiful to drink. From the Nutella overload to the cookies and cream dream, each milkshake is loaded with toppings, whipped cream, and a cherry on top. It’s a milkshake experience like no other.
3. Gourmet Ice Cream Sandwiches
At Sweet Bites, they take the classic ice cream sandwich to a whole new level. Their gourmet ice cream sandwiches feature homemade cookies or brownies paired with premium ice cream flavors. With options like red velvet cookies with cream cheese ice cream or chocolate chip cookies with mint chocolate chip ice cream, the combinations are endless. Indulge in the perfect balance of chewy, creamy, and sweet in every bite.
4. Rolled Ice Cream
Experience the art of rolled ice cream at Chill Rollers, where your ice cream is made right before your eyes. Watch as the skilled rollers pour the ice cream base onto a cold plate and mix in your choice of toppings. As the mixture freezes, they skillfully scrape and roll it into beautiful ice cream rolls. It’s a visual and tasty treat that will leave you amazed.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Ice Cream Spots
If you’re tired of the usual tourist hotspots and want to explore a more local and lesser-known ice cream scene, this section is for you. Discover the hidden gems that only the true ice cream connoisseurs know about.
1. Mom-and-Pop Delights
Located in a quaint neighborhood, Mom’s Scoops is a hidden gem that offers homemade ice cream with a personal touch. Run by a local family, Mom’s Scoops prides itself on using fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create their delectable flavors. Their friendly and welcoming atmosphere will make you feel like part of the family as you enjoy their delicious scoops.
2. Artisanal Gelato
If you’re a gelato lover, don’t miss Gelato Elegante, a small gelateria tucked away in a charming alley. This hidden gem offers a rotating selection of artisanal gelato flavors made in-house. From classic Italian flavors like pistachio and stracciatella to unique creations like lavender honey, Gelato Elegante is a must-visit for gelato aficionados seeking a truly authentic experience.
3. Farm-to-Cone
For a taste of farm-fresh goodness, make your way to Farmhouse Creamery. Located on a picturesque farm, this hidden gem prides itself on using milk from their own cows to create their delicious ice cream. With flavors like fresh strawberry and sweet cream, each scoop is a testament to the quality and freshness of their ingredients. Take a stroll around the farm after enjoying your cone and soak in the peaceful countryside ambiance.
4. Local Art Collaboration
Discover a unique ice cream experience at Artful Scoops, where ice cream meets local art. This hidden gem partners with local artists to create limited-edition flavors inspired by their artwork. With ever-changing flavors and designs, Artful Scoops offers a truly immersive and artistic ice cream experience. Enjoy your cone while admiring the beautiful artwork displayed throughout the shop.
Tips and Tricks for the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience
Make the most out of your ice cream adventure with these insider tips and tricks. From finding the shortest lines to avoiding brain freeze, this section is filled with valuable advice to ensure you have an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.
1. Timing is Everything
If you want to avoid long lines, try visiting the ice cream parlors during off-peak hours. Early afternoon or late evening are usually less crowded, allowing you to enjoy your ice cream without the wait. Plus, you might even score some exclusive flavors that are often sold out during busy periods.
2. Try Before You Buy
Many ice cream parlors offer samples, so don’t be afraid to ask for a taste before committing to a flavor. This way, you can ensure you’ll love your scoop and avoid any disappointment. It’s also a fun way to explore new and unique flavors that you might not have considered otherwise.
3. Mix It Up
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Mix and match flavors to create your own unique creation. For example, try combining a scoop of chocolate with ascoop of peanut butter for a deliciously indulgent treat. Get creative and explore the endless possibilities to find your perfect flavor combination.
4. Share the Love
Ice cream is meant to be enjoyed with others, so why not share the experience with friends or family? Order a variety of flavors and share tasting spoons to try a little bit of everything. It’s a fun and interactive way to bond over a mutual love for ice cream and discover new favorites together.
5. Pace Yourself
As tempting as it may be to devour your ice cream quickly, try to pace yourself to avoid brain freeze. Take small bites or sips, allowing your taste buds to fully savor the flavors. This will also prevent the discomfort that comes with eating ice cream too quickly. Enjoy the experience and take your time to truly appreciate each scoop.
6. Capture the Moment
Don’t forget to capture the beauty of your ice cream creations before digging in. Snap a photo of your colorful and Instagram-worthy treat to share with friends and family. Not only does it create lasting memories, but it also allows you to relive the delicious experience long after the last bite is gone.
7. Support Local
Many of the ice cream parlors in Myrtle Beach are locally owned and operated, so supporting them means supporting the local community. By choosing to indulge in their delicious treats, you contribute to the vibrant culinary scene of Myrtle Beach and help small businesses thrive. It’s a win-win situation for your taste buds and the local economy.
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach’s ice cream scene is a paradise for dessert enthusiasts. With an array of flavors, styles, and ambiance to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or crave the thrill of unique creations, Myrtle Beach’s best ice cream will exceed your expectations. From the heavenly chocolate creations to the innovative and unforgettable flavors, every scoop is a journey into pure bliss. So, don’t miss out on this delightful experience and treat yourself to a scoop or two on your next visit to Myrtle Beach. Indulge in the cool and creamy delights that this coastal town has to offer, and let the flavors transport you to a state of pure happiness.