Even in December temperatures at Myrtle Beach reach a mild 60°F during the day and only drop down to a minimum of 41°F during the night. These are temperatures that you don’t get at many places during winter in the United States. December at Myrtle Beach is dry (only 6 days of rain on average)and even though the water temperature is pretty cool at 55°F, you can still swim at one of the indoor water parks or in an indoor hotel pool which many hotels offer. So you can still make a lot out of the 7 hours of sunshine a day.
December in Myrtle Beach, with its mild temperatures, will also allow you to enjoy the outdoors. From playing a round of golf to taking a stroll along the beach - there are many things to do. Around the holidays you will also find lots of related entertainment such as special holiday shows, tree lightings or the Ripley’s Festival of Trees. You will also have lots of opportunities to do your holiday shopping. If there for New Year’s Eve, don’t miss checking out the New Years Eve Garden By Candlelight Pre-Party. Being in off-season you will also find great hotel deals in Myrtle Beach in December.
Best Time to visit Myrtle Beach
In terms of weather, the best time to visit Myrtle Beach is between March and November. The months of spring and fall are pleasant and mild- perfect for outdoor activities. The hot months of June, July and August provide ideal beach vacation weather. The best months for swimming in the ocean are July, August and September. August and September are the wettest months of the year so it might be wise to bring some rain gear. January is the coldest month but even during the winter temperatures rarely drop under 55°F during the day.
Things to know about Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach used to be made up of just a few fishermen’s houses along the coast not too long ago. Today, Myrtle Beach has become a busy and well known vacation destination. The Oceanfront Broadwalk is an over a mile long promenade along the sea where you can stop at one of the numerous and very inviting restaurants with a sea view. Myrtle Beach is also famous for its more than 100 Championship Golf Courses and you won’t get bored during the nights, where numerous bars and clubs will keep you busy. Even if you are simply after a relaxing beach vacation - there are many vacation possibilities in Myrtle Beach!
The 10 top sights are:
Waccatee Zoological Farm
The Waccatee Zoological Farm is an absolute must if you are travelling with kids. You can watch a number of different animals including the famous peaco*cks. The entrance is cheap and even on hot days you will find plenty of shady spots.
Palace Theatre
At the Palace Theatre you can watch Broadway inspired shows directly on the beach. The small and pleasant theatre offers great views from any seat. If you are up for a matinee you get even cheaper tickets.
Myrtle Beach State Park
The Myrtle Beach State park is just a few minutes walk away from the center. If you are after a quiet place to relax this is exactly what you are looking for.
Nascar SpeedPark
Kids as well as adults can expect a lot of fun go-karting at the Nascar SpeedPark. If you aren’t physically into racing you can simply experience the thrill in the video game hall.
Myrtle Waves Water Park
If just enjoying sunbathing and swimming in the oceon is too boring for you, you can find all kinds of water slides and water waves in the Myrtle waves water park.
Broadway at the Beach
What would Myrtle Beach be without shopping? Visit the Broadway at the Beach and its’ unique shops, the IMAX cinema, the Ripley’s aquarium, mini-golf and much more.
Barefoot Landing
Another famous shopping destination of Myrtle Beach is the Barefoot Landing. In between shopping you can take a rest on a deck chair looking out over the ocean, observe the crocodiles or take a ride on the carousell.
Huntington Beach State Park
Just a few minutes walk from Myrtle Beach you will find this park which also offers an area designated to relax and swim. The untouched coastal line invites you to fish or observe the birds and alligators.
Brookgreen Gardens
On 13.5 square miles the botanical gardens of Brookgreen will offer yousight of countless types of plants as well as many interesting sculptures. You might want to bring a picnic or check out any concerts.
The Beach
Last but not least, the beach! The one and main thing you might want to visit Myrtle Beach for. It’s huge with lots of sand and waves and it’s also free!
Other destinations in December
Alaska Hawaii Tampa South Padre Island Honolulu - Oahu
FAQs
The winter months, December through February, are a great time to visit Myrtle Beach. Temperatures are in the lower 60s with low humidity and virtually zero crowds. While some restaurants and attractions may be closed or have off-season hours, there is still plenty to do in the Grand Strand.
Is December a good time to visit Myrtle Beach? ›
The winter months, December through February, are a great time to visit Myrtle Beach. Temperatures are in the lower 60s with low humidity and virtually zero crowds. While some restaurants and attractions may be closed or have off-season hours, there is still plenty to do in the Grand Strand.
Can you swim in Myrtle Beach in December? ›
Water temperatures in Myrtle Beach in December, January, and February hover between 50 and 55 degrees. The water is a bit too cold to swim comfortably, but many visitors still surf wearing a wetsuit or enjoy boating in the mild temperatures. Others choose to enjoy the indoor pool or heated hot tub at their resort.
Can you wear shorts in Myrtle Beach in December? ›
Shorts and T-shirts are still acceptable in the autumn months, both socially and climate-wise, as temperatures still regularly reach the 70s. But the deeper we get into the winter calendar, the more you're going to need the full coverage of jeans, slacks, long-sleeve shirts and sweaters.
What is the temperature in Myrtle Beach at Christmas? ›
The average daily temp in Myrtle Beach begins to fall by the end of December, so from Christmas through New Year's the thermometer may read between 50°F and 60°F during the day, but will still rarely fall below 40°F at night.
Is Myrtle Beach Boardwalk open in December? ›
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is 1.2 miles and runs oceanfront along downtown Myrtle Beach. WHAT TIME DOES THE MYRTLE BEACH BOARDWALK OPEN? The boardwalk is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for visitors to enjoy year-round!
How should I dress for Myrtle Beach in December? ›
Myrtle Beach weather becomes mild during the winter months. It's best to pack a light coat, weather-appropriate clothing, and closed-toed shoes during this time of year. It's best to stay informed of Myrtle Beach weather patterns for your travel dates, just so you know what to expect.
What is the cheapest time to go to Myrtle Beach? ›
December through February. If you're looking for a quiet, budget-friendly vacation, consider visiting Myrtle Beach during the winter months of December through February.
Does Myrtle Beach do anything for Christmas? ›
The Great Christmas Light Show
One of the Grand Strand's favorite traditions is The Great Christmas Show in North Myrtle Beach. Millions of sparkling lights are coordinated to your favorite holiday songs during the two-mile drive through the complex. They have new lights and new displays for this Christmas season!
Is Myrtle Beach fun for Christmas? ›
Each season brings a new wave of excitement with food festivals and events, new attractions, dazzling shows, and eager visitors ready to take it all in. This December season, Myrtle Beach is filled with holiday cheer around every corner.
With nearly all Myrtle Beach attractions open year-round, there are endless activities, indoor and outdoor, to keep you busy during your stay at Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort this season. We've rounded up a list of the top things to do in Myrtle Beach in the winter to make your vacation planning painless.
What is off season in Myrtle Beach? ›
The off-season in Myrtle Beach is generally November through February. While these are the coolest months here on the coast, temperatures tend to reach highs of 60s and even 70s on the warmest days. Even on cooler days, the strength of the sun provides warmth during the day.
Should I go to the beach in December? ›
You can certainly go TO the beach, with a sweater and/or jacket, but you probably won't want to go swimming. Also, while the weather in LA in December is often warm, head to the coast (Venice, Santa Monica, Malibu) and it's overcast and chilly. The marine layer blocks the sun, and the wind off the ocean is brisk.
Where is the warmest place in the US in December? ›
Key West, Florida
That's why Key West—an island on the tip of the Florida Keys—is one of North America's best warm places to visit in December.
Does Myrtle Beach close in the winter? ›
We are often asked, “Does Myrtle Beach shut down in the winter?” and the answer is - not at all! Myrtle Beach isn't your typical beach town that rolls up the boardwalks in the winter months. The weather in Myrtle Beach is generally mild, with temperatures typically reaching high 60s and low 70s.
What's the warmest month in Myrtle Beach? ›
Summer is, unsurprisingly, the warmest time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Vacationers can expect average highs ranging from the low 80s to the high 80s from June to August, with temperatures typically peaking in July.
What is the cheapest month to go to Myrtle Beach? ›
December, January, and February are the cheapest months in Myrtle Beach for lodging and attractions, but with our tips, you aren't limited to winter travel. We've already cracked the code on the best month to visit the beach: October is when the cost, crowds, activities, and temperatures offer more pros than cons.
What is considered off season in Myrtle Beach? ›
November through February is considered the “off-season” for Myrtle Beach. However, just because the temperatures have cooled down, doesn't mean the fun isn't heating up in Myrtle Beach in the winter! Myrtle Beach's average temperature in the winter is nearly 60°F – a cool respite from the frigid northern cold.
What time of year is Myrtle Beach the least crowded? ›
The best times to visit Myrtle Beach
- Shoulder season: March to May.
- Peak season: June to August.
- Cooler weather: September to November.
- Least crowded: December to February.
