Normally, beach destinations get busier as it gets colder, since people are trying to escape the freezing temperatures of the North. But Myrtle Beach is different because it is further North, and gets a little too cold for the beach during the winter. This means it is often overlooked as a vacation destination outside of the summer months. It is a bit of a shame, however, because the city has much to offer beyond just beaches and fun-in-the-sun, especially for budget travelers looking for a good deal. This makes it feel like a "hidden gem" even though it is a well known tourist destination. If you happen to come across a good deal for a last-minute flight to Myrtle Beach and think that it’s a bad time to visit, you might want to think twice!
Walk Along the Boardwalk
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Just because winter weather takes swimming and watersports off the table doesn’t mean that the beaches have nothing to offer. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, styled by the locals as America’s Boardwalk, is a 1.2 mile path that runs along the ocean on the south side of the city. On one side, you have a fantastic view of the endless ocean. On the other side, shops and restaurants are lined up ready to welcome you in. For the best view of the ocean, head to the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, a ferris wheel that will take you up 187 feet, allowing for amazingly Grammable photo ops of both the ocean horizon, as well as the bustling city below!
Play at Top-Notch Golf Courses
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Myrtle Beach isn’t called the “Golf Capital of the World” for nothing. The city boasts around 90 golf courses to check out, making an absolute must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast. The coldest daytime temperatures that Myrtle Beach experiences only get as low as the 50s (°F), which is hardly too cold to golf. Visiting during the colder months means you can take advantage of better deals, which means you can stay for longer and visit more golf courses. Of course, if you aren’t a huge golf enthusiast, it is still worth visiting one of these courses just to say you golfed at one of the most famous golf destinations in the world!
Embark on a Culinary Journey
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With over 2,000 restaurants to choose from, and fresh fish being caught every day, exploring the culinary scene will elevate any trip to Myrtle Beach. Many restaurants are lined up along the waterfront, and without big beach crowds, now is the time to sample the local cuisine without having to deal with long waits and thick crowds. For a South Carolina staple, look for Frogmore Stew, which consists of shrimp, corn on the cob, potatoes, and smoked sausage. To get a sample of whatever fish is in season, look for other variations of seafood boils or maybe a seafood platter. If you are a real seafood lover, your best bet is to find a restaurant that offers a buffet so that you can sample a little bit of everything!
Enjoy Live Music
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Regardless of when you choose to visit, you can always expect there to be tons of live music events to attend. While there are all kinds of genres represented here, the most ubiquitous is what can only be described as beach music. This style mixes R&B, Rock, and Pop for a vibey and joyous blend that anyone can enjoy. You will also find a lot of Country music, as you would expect from any state in the Southern US, as well as a lot of Jazz and Blues. If you need a place to start, check out the Tin Roof, House of Blues, or The Browery to see some of the most iconic spots in town.
Become One with Nature!
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Nature lovers will also have plenty to do here, and the temperate weather can actually be better for things like hiking and fishing. Brookgreen Gardens is a great place to start, with its botanical gardens, art installations, and low country zoo. There are often special exhibits and events, so check the website to see what’s going on. South of the city, you will find Murrelles Inlet, where tour companies offer cruises through the marshland. This is a great spot for birdwatching, with over 300 species of birds to look out for. Or if you want to go fishing, there are spots all over where you can break out your cast your line and pass the day away in complete peace and serenity!
