Low Tide Gaming in Surfside Beach

Low Tide Gaming in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, is the brainchild of Will Pamplin, with support from his father Bo, who is president of the Beachfront Blessings charity.

The concept for a sensory-friendly gaming experience for visitors and locals alike started several years ago, but the plan truly accelerated to fruition in the early part of 2025.  The current space started with cement floor and gray walls – Will and his family did all the painting, decor and flooring.

Will tells us that “Low Tide Gaming isn’t your average gaming lounge or arcade. We’ve carefully designed every element of our space to create an inclusive atmosphere, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their gaming experience to the fullest.”

Most people come in knowing which games they want to play and have a familiarity with them. Other times they might be trying out a new game and Will, who is the general manager of Low Tide Gaming, will assist in guiding or training them.

Most of their clients are locals, aged 12-30, but visitors are getting to know about Low Tide Gaming and spending time there on days that are too hot or too wet.

Favorite systems available include PlayStation 5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.

Low Tide Gaming has vintage games as well for us older folk – all completely refurbished, such as Pac-Man, and even a two person in pong console similar to what you might have seen in a Pizza Hut in the early 1980s.

Will tells us that “The most popular games at Low Tide are Mario Kart and Pac-Man, and all ages enjoy coming out and playing our games.”

Low Tide Gaming also hosts birthday parties and other private events.

A three hour block for up to 20 people runs $350.

When visiting individually, it’s $25 for the day.  Low Tide Gaming is open Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 8pm and offers local and group discounts.

While the gaming stations have noise-canceling headphones and customized seating and lighting options, there’s also a sensory break area offered, away from the games.

Will is open to collaborating with local businesses like retail establishments that can hold materials by the checkout counter. Low Tide Gaming is also making inroads with the gaming clubs throughout the Horry County School District and in general is seeking to be a partner to educational programs that emphasize gaming or emphasize programming for sensory challenged individuals.

Low Tide gaming operates under the auspices of Beachfront Blessings, a 501(c)(3) charity.  Beachfront Blessings focus on the autism and autism spectrum community, with initiatives such as providing communication boards for nonverbal individuals.

In general, Myrtle Beach has earned a reputation as being a sensory friendly destination, and for fans of the TV program “Traveling on the Spectrum,” you may have noticed Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand featured prominently.

Will finally points out “even if you have the equipment and a great set up at home, getting your friends together in person live to play game is a lot different and more rewarding than playing virtually.”

Low Tide Gaming is located at 799-B Highway 17 Business, Surfside Beach, SC 29575 and on the web at www.beachfrontblessings.org/low-tide-gaming.

Contact My Journey Begins Travel to plan your Myrtle Beach vacation!