The Boardwalk Arcade at Gay Dolphin Gift Cove in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, operates as a classic arcade experience within one of the area’s most iconic retail establishments. Though the larger Gay Dolphin Gift Cove was established in 1946 by Justin and Eloise Plyler, the arcade has long been an integral part of its multifaceted entertainment offerings, providing a dedicated space for games. The original Gay Dolphin enterprise included various attractions such as a Kiddieland amusement park, an aquarium, and a rifle range, reflecting the Plylers’ vision for an affordable, family-friendly vacation destination.
Today, the Boardwalk Arcade, which adjoins the expansive Gift Cove, features a variety of classic and modern amusements, including pinball machines, crane games, Skee-Ball, and video games such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong. Visitors can earn tickets to redeem for prizes, contributing to the nostalgic boardwalk experience. The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove itself, recognized as the nation’s largest gift shop, spans 35,000 square feet with numerous themed “coves” and photo opportunities, acting as a significant and enduring landmark on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. It remains a continually operating recreational hub, deeply rooted in the local community’s history and a popular destination for generations of tourists.
