Alligator Adventure in Myrtle Beach is one of the largest reptile parks in the world. It has hundreds of gators and crocs, as well as snakes, exotic birds, and other exciting animals like bobcats and mountain lions. New exhibits are added periodically, and desert rams will soon be joining the menagerie.
Upon entering the park, I was immediately greeted by dozens of young American alligators in a large pond. They were lined up like James Bond was about to dash across them in Live and Let Die.
Those 10-foot alligators looked like toys compared to Utan, one of the largest crocodiles on display in the U.S. Utan was born in Thailand in 1964 and relocated to Alligator Adventure in 2002. He has a large private enclosure worthy of his status as “King of the Crocs.”
Another special enclosure houses the park’s collection of albino alligators. These ghostly white creatures lack melatonin in their skin, which can be damaged from too much sun exposure. Their condition also prevents them from being camouflaged in the wild, which means not many survive to adulthood.
A highlight of any visit to Alligator Adventure is watching a live feeding. For these thrilling shows, skilled handlers toss pieces of raw chicken into the air and the alligators leap out of the water to catch them. Their strength and agility is truly impressive! (Note that these feedings take place only from April to October because the alligators don’t eat when it’s cold out.)
As if the gators and crocs aren’t reason enough to visit, you’ll find all sorts of snakes, from pythons and boa constrictors to highly venomous cobras and black mambas. I preferred the flocks of colorful birds that were singing and showing off all around the park. Sadly, my late afternoon visit meant that all the big cats were sleeping. I’d go in the morning if you want to see them out and about.
Are you ready to visit Alligator Adventure Myrtle Beach? You can find the latest ticket prices on the official park website. Allow at least two hours to get the most out of your visit. And be sure to follow all the posted signs for your safety! The park is located in Barefoot Landing, a popular dining and shopping complex in North Myrtle Beach.
Looking for more fun things to do in Myrtle Beach? I highly recommend Atalaya Castle and Brookgreen Gardens!
I’m glad you and Dad went without me. Not my cup of tea. They were advertising on TV and a handler had one of the big yellow snakes draped around her neck and shoulders. Gave me the creeps. I didn’t realize they had so many gators there. I hope the place is built strong in case a hurricane ever comes through. I’d hate the thought of all those reptiles running around the area.