With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless attractions, Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. Knowing the best time to visit Myrtle Beach can help you make the most of your trip by ensuring ideal weather conditions and avoiding peak tourist seasons.
Myrtle Beach experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. The city enjoys a lengthy growing season, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. While Myrtle Beach can be visited year-round, certain months offer more favorable weather for outdoor activities and beach enjoyment.
Let's delve into the weather patterns of each month in Myrtle Beach to help you plan your visit accordingly.
myrtle beach weather month
Experience the best of Myrtle Beach's weather and attractions in these key months.
- May: Warm days, cool nights, fewer crowds
- June: Summer begins, beach season opens
- July: Hottest month, lively atmosphere
- August: Peak tourist season, hot and humid
- September: Still warm, less crowded, lower rates
- October: Comfortable weather, perfect for outdoor activities
- November: Mild temperatures, fewer tourists
- December: Cool days, festive holiday events
Remember that weather can be unpredictable, so checking the latest forecast before your trip is always a good idea.
May: Warm days, cool nights, fewer crowds
May marks the start of the summer season in Myrtle Beach, offering a delightful blend of warm days and cool nights. With average temperatures ranging from 65°F to 78°F, May is an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities without the sweltering heat of the peak summer months. The ocean water is also starting to warm up, making it perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water sports.
One of the best things about visiting Myrtle Beach in May is the smaller crowds. Schools are still in session, so you'll find fewer families with children. This means shorter lines at attractions, more availability at restaurants, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall. You'll also find that hotel rates are generally lower in May compared to the peak summer months.
If you're looking for a month to visit Myrtle Beach when you can enjoy warm days, cool nights, and fewer crowds, May is an excellent choice. Here are some specific activities and events you might consider during your May visit:
- Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, enjoying the beautiful scenery and fresh ocean air.
- Spend a day at one of Myrtle Beach's many water parks, such as Myrtle Waves or Wild Water & Wheels, to cool off and have some fun.
- Visit the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum to see a collection of classic and modern pinball machines and enjoy a nostalgic game or two.
- Attend the Myrtle Beach Bike Week, a week-long motorcycle rally held in mid-May, featuring live music, bike shows, and other events.
May is a fantastic month to experience all that Myrtle Beach offers without the hustle and bustle of the peak tourist season.
June: Summer begins, beach season opens
June marks the official start of summer in Myrtle Beach, and with it comes longer days, warmer temperatures, and the opening of the beach season. Average temperatures in June range from 72°F to 86°F, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles on the beach.
One of the best things about June in Myrtle Beach is the lively atmosphere. With schools out for the summer, the city comes alive with families and vacationers. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is bustling with activity, and there are always events and festivals happening throughout the city.
If you're looking for a month to visit Myrtle Beach when you can enjoy all the best that the city has to offer, June is a great choice. Here are some specific activities and events you might consider during your June visit:
- Spend a day at the beach, swimming, sunbathing, playing in the sand, or trying out water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
- Take a walk or bike ride along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the oceanfront.
- Visit one of Myrtle Beach's many amusement parks, such as Broadway at the Beach or Family Kingdom, for a day of fun and excitement.
- Attend the Myrtle Beach Seafood Festival, a four-day festival held in mid-June, featuring fresh seafood, live music, and family-friendly activities.
June is a fantastic month to experience all that Myrtle Beach has to offer, from its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere to its many attractions and events.
July: Hottest month, lively atmosphere
July is the hottest month in Myrtle Beach, with average temperatures ranging from 76°F to 89°F. While the heat can be oppressive at times, there are plenty of ways to cool off and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.
- Hit the beach: The ocean water is warm and inviting in July, making it the perfect time for swimming, surfing, and other water sports. You can also build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.
- Visit a water park: Myrtle Beach is home to several water parks, such as Myrtle Waves and Wild Water & Wheels, where you can cool off and have some fun on water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
- Take a boat trip: There are many different boat tours and cruises available in Myrtle Beach, ranging from short sightseeing cruises to longer fishing and dolphin-watching trips.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Myrtle Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. You can also find many restaurants open late, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.
July is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for a lively atmosphere and plenty of things to see and do. Just be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions to protect yourself from the heat.
August: Peak tourist season, hot and humid
August is the peak tourist season in Myrtle Beach, and with good reason. The weather is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 77°F to 90°F, but the beaches are at their best, the water is warm and inviting, and there are plenty of activities and events to keep visitors entertained.
- Hit the beach: August is the perfect time to enjoy all that Myrtle Beach's beaches have to offer. You can swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
- Visit a water park: If you're looking to cool off from the heat, Myrtle Beach has several water parks to choose from, such as Myrtle Waves and Wild Water & Wheels.
- Attend a festival: August is a month of festivals in Myrtle Beach. Some of the most popular festivals include the Myrtle Beach Seafood Festival, the Carolina Country Music Fest, and the Myrtle Beach Bike Week.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Myrtle Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. You can also find many restaurants open late, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.
August is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for a lively atmosphere and plenty of things to see and do. Just be sure to stay hydrated and take precautions to protect yourself from the heat and humidity.
September: Still warm, less crowded, lower rates
September is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for a more relaxed and affordable beach vacation. The weather is still warm, with average temperatures ranging from 72°F to 85°F, but the crowds are smaller and the rates are lower.
- Enjoy the beach: September is a great time to enjoy all that Myrtle Beach's beaches have to offer. You can swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The water is still warm enough for swimming, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months.
- Visit a water park: If you're looking to cool off from the heat, Myrtle Beach has several water parks to choose from, such as Myrtle Waves and Wild Water & Wheels. You can also find many other attractions and activities that are perfect for families, such as Ripley's Aquarium and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.
- Take a day trip: September is also a great time to take a day trip to one of the many nearby attractions, such as Charleston, Savannah, or Wilmington. These cities are all within a few hours' drive of Myrtle Beach and offer a variety of historical, cultural, and culinary experiences.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Myrtle Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. You can also find many restaurants open late, serving everything from casual fare to fine dining.
September is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for a more relaxed and affordable beach vacation. You'll still be able to enjoy all that the city has to offer, but without the crowds and high prices of the peak summer months.
October: Comfortable weather, perfect for outdoor activities
October is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for comfortable weather and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The average temperatures range from 62°F to 78°F, making it ideal for spending time at the beach, exploring the city's many parks and trails, or playing a round of golf.
- Enjoy the beach: October is a great time to enjoy all that Myrtle Beach's beaches have to offer. The water is still warm enough for swimming, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months. You can also enjoy activities like beach volleyball, frisbee, and kite flying.
- Explore the parks and trails: Myrtle Beach has a number of beautiful parks and trails, perfect for hiking, biking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll. Some of the most popular parks include Myrtle Beach State Park, Huntington Beach State Park, and the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge.
- Play a round of golf: Myrtle Beach is a golfer's paradise, with over 100 golf courses to choose from. Many of these courses are open year-round, and October is a great time to enjoy a round of golf without the heat and humidity of the summer months.
- Attend a fall festival: October is also a great time to visit Myrtle Beach for one of the many fall festivals that take place throughout the month. These festivals celebrate the changing seasons and offer a variety of activities, such as pumpkin carving, hayrides, and live music.
October is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for comfortable weather and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. You'll be able to enjoy all that the city has to offer without the crowds and high prices of the peak summer months.
November: Mild temperatures, fewer tourists
November is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for mild temperatures and fewer tourists. The average temperatures range from 48°F to 68°F, making it ideal for spending time outdoors without the heat and humidity of the summer months. You'll also find that hotel rates and airfare are typically lower in November.
- Enjoy the beach: November is a great time to enjoy the beach without the crowds. You can walk, jog, or bike along the beach, or simply relax and soak up the sun. The water is still warm enough for swimming, but you may want to wear a wetsuit or other protective clothing.
- Explore the city: Myrtle Beach has a number of attractions and activities that are perfect for exploring in November. You can visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, the SkyWheel, or Ripley's Aquarium. You can also take a walk or bike ride through one of the city's many parks.
- Attend a holiday event: November is a great time to visit Myrtle Beach for one of the many holiday events that take place throughout the month. These events include the Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade, the Winter Wonderland at the Beach, and the New Year's Eve celebration at the SkyWheel.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to Southern comfort food. You can also find many breweries and wineries in the area.
November is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city's attractions and activities.
December: Cool days, festive holiday events
December is a magical time to visit Myrtle Beach. The weather is cool and crisp, with average temperatures ranging from 39°F to 58°F. The city is also decked out in holiday decorations, and there are many festive events and activities to enjoy.
One of the best things about visiting Myrtle Beach in December is the lack of crowds. The peak tourist season is over, so you'll be able to enjoy all that the city has to offer without the long lines and traffic jams. You'll also find that hotel rates and airfare are typically lower in December.
Here are some specific activities and events you might consider during your December visit to Myrtle Beach:
- Attend the Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade: This annual parade features floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus himself. It's a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy some family fun.
- Visit the Winter Wonderland at the Beach: This holiday festival features ice skating, snow tubing, and a variety of rides and attractions. It's a great place to take the kids for a day of fun.
- See the New Year's Eve fireworks show at the SkyWheel: This annual fireworks show is one of the most popular New Year's Eve events in Myrtle Beach. It's a great way to ring in the new year with friends and family.
- Enjoy the local holiday cuisine: Myrtle Beach is home to a variety of restaurants serving traditional holiday dishes, such as turkey, ham, and prime rib. You can also find many restaurants serving special holiday-themed menus.
December is a great month to visit Myrtle Beach if you're looking for a festive holiday getaway. You'll be able to enjoy all that the city has to offer without the crowds and high prices of the peak summer months.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the best time to visit Myrtle Beach:
Question 1: When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?
Answer: The best time to visit Myrtle Beach depends on your preferences. If you're looking for warm weather and plenty of sunshine, the summer months (June, July, and August) are ideal. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder months (May, September, and October) are a great choice. And if you're looking for a festive holiday getaway, December is a magical time to visit.
Question 2: What are the hottest months in Myrtle Beach?
Answer: The hottest months in Myrtle Beach are July and August, with average temperatures ranging from 76°F to 90°F.
Question 3: What are the coldest months in Myrtle Beach?
Answer: The coldest months in Myrtle Beach are January and February, with average temperatures ranging from 33°F to 52°F.
Question 4: When is the rainy season in Myrtle Beach?
Answer: Myrtle Beach's rainy season is from June to September, with an average of 6 to 8 inches of rain per month. However, rain showers are typically brief and don't usually last long.
Question 5: When is the hurricane season in Myrtle Beach?
Answer: The hurricane season in Myrtle Beach runs from June 1st to November 30th. However, the peak of the hurricane season is from mid-August to mid-October.
Question 6: What are some things to do in Myrtle Beach during the off-season?
Answer: During the off-season, you can still enjoy many of Myrtle Beach's attractions and activities, such as visiting the beach, exploring the city's parks and trails, playing a round of golf, and attending local events and festivals.
Question 7: What are some tips for saving money on a trip to Myrtle Beach?
Answer: Here are a few tips for saving money on your trip to Myrtle Beach:
- Visit during the shoulder months (May, September, and October) when hotel rates and airfare are typically lower.
- Take advantage of discounts and coupons available online and through local tourism boards.
- Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money on food and beverages.
- Look for free or low-cost activities and attractions, such as visiting the beach, exploring the city's parks and trails, and attending local events and festivals.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about the best time to visit Myrtle Beach. For more information, please visit the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce website.
Now that you know the best time to visit Myrtle Beach, here are a few tips to help you plan your trip:
Tips
Here are a few practical tips to help you plan your trip to Myrtle Beach:
Tip 1: Book your accommodations in advance. Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your hotel or rental property in advance, especially if you're traveling during the peak season (June, July, and August). You can find a variety of accommodations to choose from, including hotels, motels, condos, and vacation homes.
Tip 2: Pack for all types of weather. The weather in Myrtle Beach can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack for all types of weather, including warm clothes, rain gear, and swimwear. You may also want to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Tip 3: Take advantage of the free activities and attractions. Myrtle Beach offers a variety of free activities and attractions, such as visiting the beach, exploring the city's parks and trails, and attending local events and festivals. You can also find many free or low-cost activities at the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce website.
Tip 4: Be prepared for crowds. Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to be prepared for crowds, especially during the peak season. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months (May, September, and October) or during the off-season (November through April).
These are just a few tips to help you plan your trip to Myrtle Beach. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless attractions, Myrtle Beach is a great place to visit any time of year.
Now that you know the best time to visit Myrtle Beach and have some tips for planning your trip, it's time to start packing your bags and getting ready for your vacation!
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach is a great place to visit year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you're looking for warm weather and plenty of sunshine, the summer months (June, July, and August) are ideal. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder months (May, September, and October) are a great choice. And if you're looking for a festive holiday getaway, December is a magical time to visit.
No matter when you choose to visit, Myrtle Beach has something to offer everyone. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless attractions, Myrtle Beach is a place where you can relax, have fun, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
So start planning your trip to Myrtle Beach today! Whether you're looking for a summer beach vacation, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, Myrtle Beach has something for you.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the best time to visit Myrtle Beach. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below or contact the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
We hope to see you in Myrtle Beach soon!