Myrtle Beach in December
Not the best time
December offers rock-bottom prices and empty beaches, but you're gambling on weather. Perfect for holiday light tours and cozy indoor activities.
Weather
December brings cool, variable weather with occasional warm spells mixed with genuinely cold days. Humidity stays low but wind can make temperatures feel colder. Rain becomes more frequent, and frost is possible on clear nights.
17°C high5°C low7 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$80/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Holiday light displays
- •New Year's preparations
- •Winter festivals
December Tips
- •Pack winter clothes - December can surprise you with cold snaps
- •Many attractions operate on reduced winter schedules
- •Hotel deals abound but check restaurant and activity availability
All Months
Summer brings the crowds and the highest prices, but also the warmest water and longest days. July temperatures hit the mid-80s with humidity that makes it feel like 95°F. Ocean water peaks around 82°F in August – perfect for swimming, but expect shoulder-to-shoulder beaches on weekends.
Late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer the sweet spot. Air temperatures stay in the 70s, hotel rates drop by 40%, and you can actually find parking at the beach. The water's still warm enough for swimming through October, though you might need a wetsuit for early morning dips.
Winter sees temperatures in the 50s and 60s – pleasant for walking the beach, but most seasonal attractions close. Many restaurants reduce their hours too. But if you're looking for rock-bottom hotel prices and don't mind bundling up, January and February offer oceanfront rooms for as little as $45 per night.
Avoid Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends unless you enjoy sitting in traffic for two hours to travel five miles.
Myrtle Beach Scores
Solo
5/10
Couples
6/10
Families
10/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
8/10
Luxury
4/10
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