Savvy Snowbirds are Flocking to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

 

☀️ Myrtle Beach Snowbird Guide: Mild Winters, Low Rates & Holiday Events



When the Northeast and Midwest are shivering under blankets of snow, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, opens its arms with sunshine and 60-degree afternoons. Nicknamed the Grand Strand, this 60-mile stretch of South Carolina coastline beckons travelers with mild temperatures, gentle ocean breezes, and freedom from the crowds that pack the beaches during peak season.

Myrtle Beach delivers average January highs of 57 degrees and February highs of 61 degrees — ideal for outdoor exploration without the sweltering summer heat. With an average of 15 sunny winter days per month, you’ll trade gray skies for blue ones. The mild coastal climate means peaceful beach walks, dolphin sightings, and comfortable outdoor dining. Best of all, winter weather here rarely dips below freezing, so even January surprises you with spring-like days that make you forget what season it is back home.

Adventures Without the Crowds

Your days unfold at your own pace, starting with indoor attractions that showcase the area’s character. Explore the Wheels of Yesteryear vintage auto collection, get lost in classic arcade games at the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum, or browse rotating exhibitions at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. When the urge for a little retail therapy arises, year-round shopping and entertainment complexes like The Market Common, Barefoot Landing, and Broadway at the Beach offer everything from mini golf and craft breweries to amusement rides and movie theaters.

Come winter, the area transforms into a holiday wonderland. Brookgreen Gardens in nearby Murrells Inlet hosts its magical Nights of a Thousand Candles, where it bedazzles its 9,000-acre property with 2,700 hand-lit candles and millions of twinkling lights, illuminating sculpture trails from late November through early January. Meanwhile, Winter Wonderland at the Beach decorates the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk with festive lights and boasts free weekend entertainment (think caroling and Santa appearances), creating a cheery seaside celebration.

Savor the Season

Winter dining means no mosquitoes and comfortable temperatures for restaurants with waterfront views or outdoor seating. Head to the iconic Sea Captain’s House for a cup of their rich-and-creamy, award-winning She Crab Soup. Or pop into Big Chill Island House for the chunky Island House Lobster Roll. As afternoon melts into evening, take romantic sunset strolls through sculpture gardens or savor craft brews along the Myrtle Beach Beer Trail. Cap off your day at The Carolina Opry with toe-tapping shows like Time Warp, featuring hits from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s that will have you singing along.

Winter Basecamp at Kingston Resorts

Kingston Resorts serves as the perfect headquarters, sprawling across 157 acres with over half a mile of pristine beach. This oceanfront property features two hotels — Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort and Embassy Suites Myrtle Beach Resort — plus spacious condo and villa rentals for longer stays. Five onsite restaurants, including Black Drum Brewing with its Carolina-inspired menu and 40 local taps, keep you well-fed without leaving the property.

The resort’s amenities read like a winter wish list: pickleball, tennis and golf simulators, Spa33 for rejuvenation, and bicycle rentals for coastal exploration. Dip into heated pools, take a yoga or tai chi class, or work out at 78Fitness, offering everything from strength training to an indoor lap pool.

Holiday magic peaks with Kingston’s Enchanted Christmas Village, running every Saturday from November 29 to December 27. Craft North Pole ornaments, visit Santa, decorate cookies, and catch special screenings of “The Polar Express.” The resort even offers a Grinch-themed suite at the Embassy Suites, transforming your accommodation into a Whoville wonderland.

The Snowbird Secret

Here’s what savvy snowbirds know that others don’t: Myrtle Beach offers incredible off-season rates — sometimes more than 50% off peak summer prices. You get the same stunning coastline and hospitality without the crowds — plus extraordinary savings. Golf courses stay open year-round when northern and midwestern courses are buried under snow, making this a golfer’s winter paradise. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply warm refuge from winter’s grip, the Grand Strand delivers everything you dreamed a winter escape could be. For those considering making this paradise permanent, our buyers guide is a great place to start.

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