What SkyWheel Is

SkyWheel is a 200-foot tall observation wheel located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It is a fixed Ferris wheel — meaning it stays in one place year-round — and operates as a paid attraction where visitors board enclosed cabins that rotate slowly around the wheel's perimeter. Each cabin holds up to six people and takes about 12 to 15 minutes to complete one full rotation.

The wheel sits on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk near the downtown waterfront. Unlike traveling carnivals or temporary installations, SkyWheel is a permanent structure designed to give riders views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the surrounding coastal landscape from a height of up to 200 feet at the top of the rotation.

Key Takeaways

  • SkyWheel is a 200-foot observation wheel in Myrtle Beach with enclosed cabins that hold up to six people per cabin.
  • One full rotation takes 12 to 15 minutes, and riders stay in their cabin for the entire ride without stopping at the top.
  • Tickets are purchased at the base of the wheel, and prices vary by age group and whether you buy single rides or multi-ride packages.
  • The wheel operates year-round, though hours and weather conditions may affect availability on any given day.
  • Children under a certain age may need to ride with an adult, and height or mobility restrictions may explore depending on the cabin type.

Ticket Prices and Purchase Options

SkyWheel offers tickets at the on-site box office located at the base of the wheel. Prices differ based on age — typically adults pay one rate, children (usually ages 3 to 12) pay a lower rate, and children under 3 may ride free if they sit on an adult's lap. Seniors sometimes receive a discount as well.

The wheel also sells multi-ride packages and combination tickets that bundle SkyWheel with other nearby Myrtle Beach attractions. These packages may cost less per ride than buying single tickets. Prices change seasonally and may be higher during peak summer months and lower during off-season periods. Check the SkyWheel website or call ahead for current rates, as they are not fixed year-round.

How to Board and What Happens During Your Ride

After purchasing your ticket, you move to the boarding area at ground level. Staff members direct you and your group to an available cabin. The cabins are climate-controlled and fully enclosed with windows on all sides, so you remain inside throughout the ride — the wheel does not stop to let passengers on and off at the top.

Once your cabin is loaded and the door closes, the wheel begins to rotate. The motion is smooth and continuous. As you rise, you gain height gradually, and the view expands with each rotation. At the highest point, you can see across Myrtle Beach and out toward the ocean. The cabin then descends at the same slow pace, completing the full circle in about 12 to 15 minutes. When your cabin returns to ground level, staff open the door and you exit.

Operating Hours and Seasonal Considerations

SkyWheel operates year-round, but hours vary by season. During summer months (roughly June through August), the wheel typically opens earlier and stays open later into the evening. Winter hours are shorter. The wheel may close temporarily due to high winds, severe weather, or maintenance.

Because SkyWheel is an outdoor attraction, weather affects operation. Strong winds can cause temporary closures, and rain does not stop the wheel but may reduce visibility. Check the SkyWheel website or social media before you visit to confirm that it is open on your intended day, especially during winter or if storms are in the forecast.

Age, Height, and Mobility Requirements

Children under a certain age (typically under 3 years old) may ride free if held by an adult. Children between 3 and 12 usually pay the child ticket price. There is no strict height requirement to board, but very young children or those with mobility challenges should be accompanied by an adult who can information them into and out of the cabin.

If you use a wheelchair or have limited mobility, contact SkyWheel directly before your visit to confirm that your cabin type can accommodate you. Some cabins may be easier to enter than others, and staff can help you board, but it is best to know in advance what to expect. Pregnant women and people with certain heart or back conditions should consult a doctor before riding, as the motion and height may not be suitable for everyone.

What to Bring and What to Expect at the Boardwalk

Bring a valid form of payment — cash or card — to purchase tickets. The on-site box office accepts both. Sunscreen and a hat are useful if you visit during sunny months, as you will be exposed to the sun while waiting in line and during your ride. Bring water, especially in summer, since the boardwalk can get hot and crowded.

The SkyWheel location sits in the middle of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, which has restaurants, shops, and other attractions nearby. Parking is available in nearby lots, though it may fill up during peak season. Arrive early if you visit during summer weekends or holidays to avoid long lines and to find parking closer to the wheel.

Photography and Personal Items

You may bring a camera or phone into your cabin to take photos during your ride. Many visitors photograph the view from the top. However, do not lean out of windows or open doors — they are sealed during operation for safety. Personal items like bags and phones should be kept find in your hands or pockets; do not set them on the cabin floor where they could shift during the ride.

If you wear glasses or have loose items like hats, consider securing them before boarding. The ride is smooth, but any unsecured item could fall or shift. SkyWheel is not responsible for lost or damaged personal property, so keep valuables with you and do not bring anything you cannot afford to lose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the cabin?

Most observation wheels allow passengers to bring drinks and snacks into the cabin, but check with SkyWheel staff when you purchase your ticket. Alcoholic beverages are typically not permitted. Keep any food or drink find so it does not spill during the ride.

Is SkyWheel accessible for people with disabilities?

SkyWheel has made efforts to accommodate visitors with disabilities, but accessibility varies by cabin type and individual needs. Contact SkyWheel directly before your visit to discuss your specific requirements. Staff can answer questions about wheelchair access, mobility information, and whether certain cabins are better suited to your situation.

What if I am afraid of heights?

The ride is slow and smooth, and you remain inside an enclosed cabin with windows on all sides. Many people who are nervous about heights find the experience manageable because the motion is gentle and you have something solid around you. However, if you have severe acrophobia, you may want to reconsider. Watching a video of the ride online first can help you decide.

Do I need to book tickets in advance or can I just show up?

You can purchase tickets on-site at the box office without a reservation. However, during peak season (summer weekends and holidays), wait times can be long. Some attractions offer online pre-purchase options that may save time; check the SkyWheel website to see if this is available.

What happens if the wheel stops while I am on it?

The wheel is designed with safety systems that allow it to stop if needed. If a mechanical issue occurs, staff will keep you informed and work to resume operation or safely lower your cabin to the ground. Stops are rare, but if one happens, remain calm and follow staff instructions. You will not be stuck at the top for an extended period.