The Gay Dolphin
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Gay Dolphin Gift Cove

4.5
·4k reviews·Myrtle Beach, United States

The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove: a sprawling, multi-level labyrinth of souvenirs on Myrtle Beach's boardwalk. A true icon for unique finds!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

CrowdLow
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The Gay Dolphin

Gay Dolphin Gift Cove

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove: a sprawling, multi-level labyrinth of souvenirs on Myrtle Beach's boardwalk. A true icon for unique finds!

4.5
(4k reviews)

"Get lost in this quirky gift shop that is loved by locals and travelers alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Get ready to get lost!

Embrace the maze-like layout; it's part of the fun! You might find hidden gems you weren't even looking for.

⏰ Allow ample time

This isn't a quick stop. Plan to spend at least an hour or two exploring all the levels.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.5 · 4,071 reviews

Type

Gift Shop

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Labyrinthine Aisles

The Labyrinthine Aisles

Throughout the store

Get lost in a treasure trove of beach-themed trinkets, quirky souvenirs, and unique gifts. You never know what you'll find!

Nostalgic Charm

Nostalgic Charm

Throughout the store

Experience a piece of Myrtle Beach history with items that have been around for decades. It's a trip down memory lane!

Shark Teeth & Seashells

Shark Teeth & Seashells

Various sections

Find the perfect memento of your beach vacation, from authentic shark teeth to beautiful seashells and ocean-themed decor.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Labyrinth

Prepare to get lost! The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove is a sprawling, multi-level maze of souvenirs. Many visitors report feeling delightfully disoriented as they explore its countless aisles and hidden corners. Give yourself ample time to wander and discover unexpected treasures.

Iconic Myrtle Beach Experience

More than just a gift shop, the Gay Dolphin is a Myrtle Beach institution. It's been a family-run staple for decades, offering a unique, nostalgic shopping experience. Don't expect a typical store; embrace its quirky charm and vast selection.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, less rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The gay dolphin is going to haunt me in my sleep… too much stuff #myrtlebeach
@hungrycarterpillar
131.5K likes • 433.3K views

🎯 Get ready to get lost!

Embrace the maze-like layout; it's part of the fun! You might find hidden gems you weren't even looking for. Instagram+1

⏰ Allow ample time

This isn't a quick stop. Plan to spend at least an hour or two exploring all the levels. Reddit

I GOT LOST IN THE GAY DOLPHIN! That's exactly what you will be saying when you enter the largest gift shop in the nation! You can even buy a t-shirt with the slogan as a keepsake! #myrtlebeach #gaydolphingiftcove #gaydolphin #legend #icon #shopping #grandstrandtv
grandstrandtv
15 likes • 555 views
📍 Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, Myrtle Beach, SC • • • I literally got lost in here. Wish I could have spent more time and more money. • • • #gaydolphin #myrtlebeachsc #myrtle #gaydolphingiftcove #vacation #adventure #southcarolina #myrtlebeach #adventureisoutthere #travelplans #travelphotography #travelvlog
izzymanske
10 likes • 519 views

💰 Budget for souvenirs

With so many unique items, it's easy to overspend. Set a budget before you go! TikTok

♿️ Accessibility options

Wheelchair accessible via boardwalk entrance and elevator from N Ocean Blvd. Reddit

Sasquatch sightings & sharks teeth at the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove 🐬🛍️ on Myrtle Beach’s Oceanfront Boardwalk! Get lost in this quirky gift shop that is loved by locals and travelers alike. I came here for holiday shopping as a child and what a cool opportunity to learn about the store’s rich history from Michelle Plyler during my recent trip. Stay tuned for an insider’s tour this week on a brand new...
darleynewman
42 likes • 808 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Get ready to get lost!

Embrace the maze-like layout; it's part of the fun! You might find hidden gems you weren't even looking for. Instagram+1

⏰ Allow ample time

This isn't a quick stop. Plan to spend at least an hour or two exploring all the levels. Reddit

💰 Budget for souvenirs

With so many unique items, it's easy to overspend. Set a budget before you go! TikTok

♿️ Accessibility options

Wheelchair accessible via boardwalk entrance and elevator from N Ocean Blvd. Reddit

📸 Capture the quirkiness

The store is full of unique displays and items perfect for photos. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove as an iconic Myrtle Beach experience, praising its vast selection of unique souvenirs and nostalgic charm. Many highlight the friendly staff and reasonable prices, making it a must-visit for finding the perfect keepsake. Some note the store's dated appearance, but this is often seen as part of its character.

"The lady who served us was delightful, really friendly and helpful. The prices were reasonable, and there was so much to see! There were so many items from which to choose, and for a good range of prices. This gift shop is iconic, and run by the same family for 79 years (as of July 2025). I was able to get my mid-sized electric wheelchair through the entrance and around most of the store on the boardwalk side. The other half of the store is accessible from N Ocean Blvd via an elevator. I would recommend getting some gifts here."

Denise McS

"The legendary Gay Dolphin is a must see attraction even if you don’t buy anything. There is an entrance on the boardwalk or from the street. This is a multi level gift shop that has been around for ever. It’s definitely dated but that’s what gives it charm. Lots of great gifts and knick knacks to remember your Myrtle Beach trip. Always a friendly and helpful staff."

Andrew Izzo

"This was my first time visiting Myrtle Beach and the visit wasn't complete without a visit to the world famous Gay Dolphin Gift Cove.
This place is awesome and it has just about everything beach themed trinkets and souvenirs you can think of.
Every aisle and every corner of this shop has something for everyone and you're guaranteed to walk out of there with something to take home.
I ended up purchasing a few souvenirs for myself to remember my first visit there."

Ricardo Alcaraz

What People Like

Vast selection of unique items
Nostalgic charm
Friendly and helpful staff

What People Dislike

Can feel dated
Can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove is located on Myrtle Beach's Oceanfront Boardwalk at 110 N Ocean Blvd. You can access it directly from the boardwalk or from North Ocean Boulevard. Instagram+1

Parking can be challenging in the busy boardwalk area. Look for public parking lots or street parking nearby, but be prepared for potential fees and limited availability, especially during peak season. Instagram

If you're staying along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, it's likely within walking distance. Many resorts offer shuttle services to the boardwalk area as well. Instagram

You can request an Uber or Lyft to drop you off at either the boardwalk entrance or the North Ocean Boulevard entrance. Instagram

Yes, it's a very prominent and iconic landmark on the boardwalk, easily recognizable by its large signage and bustling presence. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove. It's free to browse and explore its vast collection. Reddit

Hours can vary seasonally, but it's generally open daily. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Instagram

As a popular tourist destination, the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove typically operates year-round, though hours might be reduced during the off-season. Instagram

While strollers are generally manageable, the narrow aisles in some sections might make them difficult. Large bags are permitted, but be mindful of the crowded spaces. TikTok

Keep an eye on their social media for any announcements regarding special events or sales, though the store's charm lies in its constant, eclectic inventory. Instagram

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

You'll find an incredible variety, including beach-themed trinkets, t-shirts, seashells, shark teeth, local crafts, quirky novelty items, and unique gifts for all ages. Instagram+1

Prices are generally considered reasonable for a large souvenir shop, with a wide range of options to fit different budgets. Reddit

Absolutely! The Gay Dolphin is known for its eclectic and sometimes bizarre collection, making it a great place to find truly unique souvenirs. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a fantastic spot for gift shopping, especially if you're looking for something memorable and representative of a Myrtle Beach vacation. InstagramReddit

While it focuses heavily on beach and general souvenir items, you can often find items that reflect the local culture and products of South Carolina. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! The store's unique displays and vastness make for great photo opportunities. Instagram

Every aisle offers something interesting! Look for quirky displays, themed sections, and the sheer volume of merchandise for unique shots. Instagram

During peak times, crowds can make it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Visiting during off-peak hours can provide a better photography experience. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy capturing the 'lost in the store' feeling or highlighting particularly unusual items they discover. Instagram+1

While generally permitted, be mindful of other shoppers and avoid using flash directly in people's faces. Instagram

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