When the weather outside is frightful, North Myrtle Beach is still delightful! The average winter weather in the area is a comfortable 60 degrees, making it the perfect place to escape the snow and cold.
Believe it or not, the winter season can be the perfect time of year to visit and there are still plenty of things to do to entertain yourself in the off-season: from seeing live music and festive parades to swapping the oceanfront for indoor pools or even your very own hot tub at your vacation rental.
This beach town is a great place to spend your winter vacation, whether you’re a true snowbird or simply looking to visit Myrtle Beach for a unique way to spend your holiday season. Here are eight of the best things to do during your wintertime Myrtle Beach Vacation.
1. Visit North Myrtle Beach’s Brightest Christmas Show

If you’ll be in North Myrtle Beach for Christmas, the Great Christmas Light Show is an annual can’t-miss event that takes place in North Myrtle Beach. The event features tons of vendors selling everything from holiday decorations to handmade gifts.
The event features over two million lights, making it one of the largest light displays in the Southeast. Visitors can drive through the light display, which is spread out over two miles, or walk through a section of the display. There is also a Santa’s Village, where children can meet Santa and get their picture taken with him. The Great Christmas Light Show is a popular tourist attraction, and it is also a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.
2. See a Live Show

Enjoy a Broadway at the beach experience when you book tickets for a show at Alabama Theatre on Hwy 17 S at Barefoot Landing. This historic theater is known for its Broadway-style shows, and they always have something special going on during the holidays.
If you’re looking for extravagant live entertainment, The Carolina Opry offers a Christmas special featuring music, dance, and comedy called The Christmas Show of the South. The show is a family-friendly and entertaining Myrtle Beach tradition that features world-class performers, lavish sets and costumes, and a live orchestra playing your favorite holiday tunes.
Greg Rowles Legacy Theater on Main Street is also a great option if you want to see live music and shows.
3. Stroll Along Ocean Boulevard or Take a Walk on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

One of the best things about North Myrtle Beach is that it’s never too cold to take a walk near the beach. In fact, the winter months are a great time to enjoy the beach without the crowds.
Ocean Boulevard is the main drag running along the center of town. In wintertime, it is decorated for Christmas. Shop in the many boutique stores, grab a bite to eat, and people-watch, or bundle up and stroll along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade to enjoy the peaceful views and ample space.
Tip: While you’re by the boardwalk, take a ride on the SkyWheel for unbeatable views of the Carolina coastline.
4. Head Indoors for Some Family Entertainment

North Myrtle Beach and nearby Myrtle Beach are jam-packed with entertainment options. There is always something going on that is sure to wow:
- Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum to see the life-like wax figures of your favorite celebrities. It’s a fun place for people of all ages to go because you can see all your favorite stars in one place. The craftsmanship of the figures is pretty incredible. You’d be forgiven for thinking they were real.
- Ripley’s Aquarium in Myrtle Beach is another great place to visit. You can see all sorts of fish and other sea creatures and walk through a glass tunnel that goes under a huge tank with sharks and other big fish swimming around you. There are also touch tanks where you can pet stingrays and other animals. The aquarium is very educational and also very fun.
- The Pirates Voyage Dinner Show is a dinner theater show in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The show features two pirate crews competing against each other in a series of challenges and stunts. The show is set on a pirate ship, and the audience is seated around the ship’s deck. The show is interactive, and the audience is encouraged to cheer for their favorite pirate crew.
- Check out the wacky world of WonderWorks — an upside-down building filled with more than 100 interactive science-focused exhibits that kids and kids at heart will love. You can even test your astronaut skills in the training gyro!
5. Visit a Local Winery for a True Taste of the Area

Did you know that North Myrtle Beach is home to several wineries? If you’re looking for a romantic activity, visit one of the local wineries for a wine tasting. Sampling a flight of local wines and snacks is a great way to spend a wintry afternoon with your significant other.
Nearby La Belle Amie Vineyard and Duplin Winery are great options for testing some local creations.
6. Hit the Links

Of course, no trip to North Myrtle Beach would be complete without spending some time on the golf course. Yes, you can still play golf in December! North Myrtle Beach has more than 100 golf courses, and most are open year-round, so you’re sure to find some open green just waiting for you to show off your skills.
There are so many golf courses in the North Myrtle Beach area, each with its own unique features. The courses range from beginner-friendly to expert-level, so there’s something for everyone. Many of the courses have stunning views of the ocean, making for a beautiful round of golf.
Nearby Beachwood Golf Club is particularly nice in winter for its scenery. The course is very well-maintained, so you can be sure to have a great game. And winter is a great time to play because the courses aren’t as crowded.
7. Take in the Great Outdoors at Huntington Beach State Park

North Myrtle Beach is home to several state parks, which are great places to enjoy the outdoors. This is particularly true in winter when you can find extra solitude and peace in nature.
Huntington Beach State Park in North Myrtle Beach offers outdoor activities that are always sure to please. The cooler temperatures make for perfect hiking weather and the park is also a great place for bird-watching, especially during winter when the migrating birds are a sight to see!
You can picnic in the park to take advantage of some midday sun, and, if you’re really brave, you can even go for a swim! Even though the air temperature may be cold, the water is usually still fairly warm, especially if you are accustomed to the beaches of the Northeast or the icy Pacific!
8. Go Fishing

If you aren’t looking to join the Polar Bear Club, you can at least eat like one! North Myrtle Beach is a great place for fishing, especially during winter. The cooler temperatures make the fish more active, so you’re more likely to catch something!
Start your new year off with a new record catch. If nothing’s biting, you can always grab some fish and chips on the boardwalk, or head to The Market Common for sushi!
You’re Ready to Enjoy Winter in NMB
These are just a few of the many holiday events and cozy activities to do during your winter getaway in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. So pack your bags and head to the beach for a holiday vacation you’ll never forget.
Don’t forget to book your vacation rental early to get your pick of the bunch! Grand Strand has a huge range of amazing options to choose from, so you’re certain to find the ideal base for your Myrtle Beach adventure.