Myrtle Beach in January
Not the best time
January offers the cheapest rates and empty beaches, but you're trading warmth for savings. Perfect if you want Myrtle Beach without the crowds, just don't expect beach weather.
Weather
January brings cool, crisp weather with occasional cold snaps. Humidity drops to comfortable levels, but you'll face frequent rain showers and the possibility of frost. Ocean temperatures hover around 12°C - definitely wetsuit territory.
14°C high4°C low8 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$85/day average
Events & Festivals
- •New Year's celebrations
- •Winter blues festivals
January Tips
- •Pack layers - mornings can be surprisingly cold
- •Book oceanfront hotels for half the summer price
- •Check restaurant hours - many close early or take vacation days
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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