Myrtle Beach isn’t just about sun and sand—it’s a lively spot for memorable dinner experiences that go beyond the usual seafood joints. Whether you’re craving an interactive show, a cultural celebration, or a scenic cruise, this coastal town offers options to suit all tastes and budgets. We especially enjoy the Riga Tony’s Murder Mystery Dinner Show for its fun mix of comedy, mystery, and hearty food—perfect for those who love a bit of theatrical flair while dining. It’s a lively, 1930s mobster theme that keeps everyone engaged, with rave reviews for the performances and service.
For a taste of the islands, the Myrtle Beach: Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show offers a colorful, cultural evening filled with fire dancing, traditional music, and a buffet of island cuisine. And if a scenic waterway cruise sounds appealing, the North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat delivers stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway combined with a relaxed dinner atmosphere.
Below, we’ve rounded up five of the best dinner outings in Myrtle Beach. Each offers something different—whether it’s an interactive murder mystery, a Polynesian celebration, or a scenic river cruise—so you can pick one that fits your style.
1. Riga Tony’s Murder Mystery Dinner Show
At number 1 on our list is the Riga Tony’s Murder Mystery Dinner Show, which combines good food, comedy, and a whodunit plot in a 1930s mobster setting. This show lasts about three hours and is perfect for those who enjoy interactive entertainment with their meal. During the evening, you’ll become part of a story set in a speakeasy, trying to uncover who the killer is among four mafia families. The actors do a fabulous job making the mystery engaging and humorous, while the food receives high praise—”really good food” and “great service” are common compliments.
What makes this experience stand out is its blend of storytelling and dining, giving you a memorable night out without needing to leave the table. It’s suitable for all ages and groups looking for a lively, social night. Reviews highlight the participation aspect and the quality of the food, making it a top pick for fun-loving travelers. The ticket price of $59.99 offers solid value considering the length and entertainment.
Bottom Line: For a night of laughs, intrigue, and hearty food, Riga Tony’s hits all the marks. Perfect for couples or groups wanting an active, engaging evening.
2. Myrtle Beach: Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show
Next up is the Myrtle Beach: Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show, which offers an authentic taste of Polynesian culture in just two hours. This tour features a buffet dinner accompanied by live music from a Polynesian band and performances by a world champion Samoan fire knife team. Watch traditional hula dancers spin and sway, and take in a show that incorporates historical weaponry and storytelling.
The highlight is the fire knife performance, which is both skillful and breathtaking. The cultural entertainment is complemented by a delicious buffet, making this experience a rich blend of sights, sounds, and flavors. It’s a family-friendly event that appeals to those intrigued by island traditions, and the reviews are glowing—”enjoyed the food” and “enjoyed the show” are common themes.
At $71 per person, this luau offers excellent value for a lively, immersive cultural night. Plus, the option to purchase drinks from the premium bar enhances the experience. The setting along the river adds to the outdoor tropical vibe, making it a memorable night for lovers of culture and cuisine alike.
Bottom Line: This luau is ideal if you want a compact, authentic Polynesian experience with vibrant performances and a tasty buffet. It’s great for families and couples seeking island fun.
3. North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat
For those who prefer scenic views and a relaxed vibe, the Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat offers a two-hour journey along the Intracoastal Waterway. Boarding a charming 70-foot wooden riverboat, you’ll enjoy climate-controlled decks and outdoor viewing areas while savoring a dinner. The cruise explores the beautiful coastline and offers a peaceful way to see North Myrtle Beach from the water.
The boat features a fully-stocked bar where you can order wine, beer, or liquors while soaking up the sunset or twilight views. During the cruise, lively onboard entertainment and commentary keep the atmosphere fun and engaging. The added convenience of a complimentary shuttle from the parking lot makes this experience hassle-free.
Rated 4.6/5 with over 130 reviews, many guests praise the peaceful scenery and good value at $69 per person. This cruise suits lovers of calm, scenic outings and those wanting a memorable dinner with a view.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy gentle river cruises with good food and stunning waterway vistas, this is your ideal experience—especially if you prefer a quieter, scenic night.
4. Adventure Luau – Polynesian Dinner Show
The Adventure Luau offers as much fun as it does cultural authenticity, and it’s designed for those seeking an outdoor celebration. Lasting about 1.5 hours, this show starts at 7 pm and features traditional Polynesian performances—hula, fire dancing, poi balls, and more—set along the scenic riverbank.
The ticket includes a buffet dinner with an evolving menu, plus the chance to enjoy drinks from the Luau Bar, offering tropical wine slushies and other beverages. What sets this experience apart is its lively, outdoor setting and the chance to see authentic Polynesian acts up close. Reviewers appreciate the “beautiful views” and the “fire dancers,” though some note a few bugs and a backyard feel, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor venues.
At $69 per person, it provides a culture in a casual, festive atmosphere. It’s ideal for families or travelers who want an authentic, energetic night with a relaxed outdoor vibe.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you’re after a genuine Polynesian celebration in an outdoor setting, with lively performances and tropical drinks.
5. Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach
Finally, the Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show ranks as the most highly-rated with over 1,800 reviews and a solid 4.5/5 rating. This two-hour event kicks off with a welcoming lei and features a buffet dinner while live Polynesian music plays. The show showcases dancers from Hawaii, Tahiti, Tonga, New Zealand, and Samoa, culminating in a spectacular fire knife performance by the world champion team.
What makes this luau stand out is its comprehensive cultural showcase and lively atmosphere. The food is well-reviewed, and the staff are described as friendly. For $67.49, you get an immersive experience blending traditional music, dance, and impressive fire acts—all within a vibrant, authentic setting. Many reviews mention how much fun they had, with one saying, “The experience was outstanding,” and noting the atmosphere as “really authentic.”
This experience is suited for travelers wanting a lively, all-in-one Polynesian night with good food, entertainment, and cultural richness. It’s one of the best value options for a memorable, energetic evening.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-scale Polynesian show with great food and spectacular fire dancing, this is your top choice.
$67.49 per person
How to Choose the Perfect Dinner Experience in Myrtle Beach
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, the type of atmosphere you enjoy, and how much time you want to spend. For a lively, interactive night, Riga Tony’s murder mystery offers comedy and drama at a reasonable price. Curious about culture? The Polynesian luaus and shows provide colorful performances and tasty buffets, perfect for families and couples seeking an immersive experience. If a scenic waterway sounds appealing, the dinner cruise combines relaxation with stunning views.
Think about logistics too: the murder mystery is a three-hour event, while the luaus and shows are shorter, around 1.5 to 2 hours. The cruise offers a quieter, scenic alternative. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Myrtle Beach boasts a broad selection of memorable dinner experiences, whether you’re after a playful murder mystery, a lively Polynesian celebration, or a peaceful cruise. The top choices—Riga Tony’s Murder Mystery Dinner Show and the Polynesian Fire Luau—offer something truly special for different tastes. Families, couples, or groups of friends can all find something to enjoy.
If you want a fun, engaging night with plenty of entertainment, Riga Tony’s is hard to beat. For cultural authenticity and vibrant performances, the Polynesian events provide lively, colorful evenings. For scenic serenity, the dinner cruise tops the list. Book early and enjoy a fantastic night out in Myrtle Beach!