Best Times to Visit Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is more than a summer retreat. It’s a year-round coastal gem with shifting moods, seasonal surprises, and a rhythm all its own. With its golden shores stretching for 60 sun-kissed miles along the Atlantic Ocean, this vibrant South Carolina destination offers something magical every month. Whether you’re chasing the high of summer energy or craving the calm of a cool winter walk along the shore, the Grand Strand never disappoints.

The key to unlocking the perfect Myrtle Beach vacation lies in the timing. Let’s explore the seasons in depth, revealing the best times to visit based on your travel style whether it’s adventure, relaxation, value, or family fun.

Summer (June to August)

When people picture Myrtle Beach, it’s often in the height of summer: beach umbrellas dotting the sand, kids laughing in the waves, music drifting from open-air venues, and the buzz of a town in full bloom. June through August is the quintessential season for coastal fun.

The weather is hot and humid, with daytime highs frequently reaching the low 90s. This is beach weather at its finest, where the Atlantic Ocean becomes your sanctuary and sunbathing is an all-day affair. Even occasional summer rain showers do little to dampen spirits—they’re brief, refreshing, and often followed by clear skies.

This is the season for water lovers. Dive into the thrills at Myrtle Waves Water Park or try wakeboarding at Shark Wake Park. Jet ski rentals, banana boat rides, and parasailing opportunities abound. The beachfront is alive, the boardwalk is bustling, and the calendar is bursting with activities. Baseball fans can catch a Myrtle Beach Pelicans game, while families enjoy the thrills of Family Kingdom amusement park.

Summer also brings world-class entertainment. The Carolina Country Music Festival draws thousands of fans each June with top-tier headliners. Barefoot Landing’s SummerFest offers nightly entertainment, street performers, and fireworks. And the Boathouse Summer Concert Series keeps the music going all season long.

But with all this excitement comes the reality of crowds and higher prices. Summer is Myrtle Beach’s peak travel season, so accommodations book quickly and restaurants fill up fast. For those who thrive in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere and want to soak up the sun, this is the time to be here.

Fall (September to November)

As the summer heat softens, Myrtle Beach transitions into a quieter, more reflective version of itself. Fall is the locals’ favorite season—when the weather is still warm enough for the beach, but the pace slows, and the crowds begin to thin.

September brings lingering summer warmth, with daytime temperatures in the 70s and even low 80s. October and November gradually cool, making beach walks, golf outings, and alfresco dining a delight. It’s an excellent time to explore the quieter side of the coast, when golden sunsets stretch longer and the ocean breeze becomes crisp and refreshing.

Fall also marks a high point in the cultural calendar. The Irish Italian International Festival in September is a celebration of food, music, and heritage. The Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival, held at Huntington Beach State Park, draws artists and artisans from across the Southeast. In October, the Little River ShrimpFest fills the waterfront with fresh seafood, live music, and local charm. Meanwhile, the St. John’s Greek Festival invites visitors to enjoy traditional cuisine, dancing, and community spirit.

Shopping becomes a highlight this time of year. With holiday gift-giving on the horizon, you’ll find treasures at Coastal Grand Mall, The Hammock Shops Village, and The Market Common. And because it’s shoulder season, hotel rates dip while the weather stays pleasant—creating the perfect storm for a relaxing, affordable escape.

It’s also a terrific time for golf, with more than 80 championship courses in the area. The cooler temperatures, smaller crowds, and still-lush landscapes make fall an ideal season for tee time.

Winter (December to February)

For those seeking solitude, savings, and a slower pace, winter in Myrtle Beach is an unexpected gift. This is when the coast reveals a quieter beauty. With average temperatures in the low 60s, it’s crisp but rarely cold which is ideal for long beach walks, shell collecting, or curling up with a book in a cozy oceanfront suite.

The winter season is the most affordable time to visit Myrtle Beach. January, in particular, offers the lowest average hotel rates, and many resorts provide monthly rental specials for snowbirds and extended stays. Monterey Bay Suites, for example, offers off-season packages that make it easy to enjoy all the comforts of a resort at a fraction of the summer cost.

The city may move at a gentler pace during these months, but it’s far from sleepy. Holiday spirit abounds. In November, the Dickens Christmas Show transforms the Myrtle Beach Convention Center into a Victorian-themed marketplace filled with artisans and carolers. Throughout December, Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens becomes a mesmerizing display of lights, music, and candlelit pathways. The Christmas Show of the South, performed at the Carolina Opry, dazzles with Broadway-caliber talent, elaborate costumes, and heartwarming holiday music.

Indoor attractions are perfect for families visiting during winter break. Kids can jump and play at Rockin’ Jump or test their skills at Dave & Buster’s. The House of Blues and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show offer unique evening entertainment that’s fun for all ages.

Winter is also a good time for those who want to explore without the distractions of crowds. You’ll have the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk nearly to yourself, and you can enjoy sunrise photography, peaceful nature trails, and uncrowded dining at local favorites.

Spring (March to May)

As winter fades, Myrtle Beach wakes up with color and vitality. Spring is a time of renewal here, when azaleas bloom, the air turns warm and fragrant, and the city comes alive with a sense of anticipation.

March kicks off the season with the Canadian-American Days Festival, celebrating decades of friendship and shared love of the coast. April continues the excitement with the Myrtle Beach Food Truck & Music Festival—a feast for the senses with culinary delights and toe-tapping entertainment. May brings the World Famous Blue Crab Festival, a celebration of seafood, local culture, and waterfront beauty in nearby Little River.

Spring weather is near-perfect, with average highs climbing from the mid-60s in March to the low 80s by May. The ocean begins to warm, outdoor patios reopen, and attractions resume full schedules. Yet, this is still the shoulder season, so you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and better deals than in summer.

Spring is an excellent time to take advantage of outdoor spaces like Brookgreen Gardens, Broadway at the Beach, and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel. For families, WonderWorks and Ripley’s Aquarium offer interactive fun before the summer rush hits. Topgolf is also a favorite, offering a playful mix of sport and leisure under the spring sun.

Resorts like Monterey Bay Suites begin to fill up, but availability is still good, especially for those who book early. Spring is also popular with spring breakers, so March and early April can be livelier around certain attractions—but the atmosphere remains more relaxed than peak summer.

For travelers who want beautiful weather, moderate prices, and an abundance of things to do, spring may be the best time of all to experience Myrtle Beach.

Local Flavor: A Taste of Myrtle Beach in Every Season

No matter when you visit, one thing remains constant: Myrtle Beach’s rich and diverse culinary scene. From seaside shacks serving fresh-caught shrimp to upscale oceanfront restaurants dishing out Southern-inspired cuisine, the food here reflects the heart of the coast. In summer, cool off with a scoop from Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor or grab fish tacos by the pier. In fall, cozy up with a bowl of she-crab soup at Sea Captain’s House as the sun sets over the waves.

Winter brings comforting meals and uncrowded dining rooms—perfect for a slow, savory dinner at a local steakhouse or a quiet brunch spot like Croissants Bistro. Come spring, the farmers markets return, and local eateries begin introducing seasonal menus bursting with regional produce. Every bite offers a glimpse into Myrtle Beach’s culture—laid-back, flavorful, and always welcoming. So be sure to come hungry, because each season has its own delicious story to tell.

When Should You Go?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to visit Myrtle Beach—it depends entirely on what you want from your trip. If you dream of sun-soaked beach days, late-night music, and nonstop activity, then summer is your season. If your perfect vacation involves exploring art festivals, sipping coffee with an ocean view, and shopping for local crafts, fall is an ideal choice. Those who prioritize peace, holiday cheer, or serious savings should look no further than winter. And for travelers who want a little bit of everything—perfect weather, affordable rates, and vibrant energy—spring delivers in full.

No matter when you visit, Myrtle Beach offers the same warm hospitality, natural beauty, and coastal charm that has made it a beloved destination for generations. Each season brings its own treasures, waiting to be discovered by travelers ready to write their own Myrtle Beach story. So pack your bags, choose your season, and get ready to explore the Grand Strand—the waves are calling.