Myrtle Beach is a beach on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean in South Carolina. It is the hub of what is known as the ‘Grand Strand‘, a 60-mile string of beaches with offerings of all your favourite beach-y activities. Just like any iconic beach, Myrtle Beach attracts millions of beachgoers every year, especially during the spring and summer seasons.
Mind-blowing fact: Over 17 million visits Myrtle beach annually and in 2023, the number was over 19 million! But not to worry, there’s a ton of space for all kinds of people and to accommodate a dizzying number of amazing holiday activities.
Myrtle Beach has an estimated 460 hotels, with many on the beachfront, and approximately 89,000 accommodation units in total. And the area’s attractions include its beaches and golf courses, amusement parks, an aquarium, restaurants and numerous shopping centres.
The South Carolina beach is known for its luxury resorts, boardwalk, and of course, the stunning views of the coast. But it’s not even just those. Here’s our list of things you should (you must, really) do if you ever find yourself in the Myrtle Beach Area.
Our Favourite 12 Things to Do in Myrtle Beach during the holidays
It’s tiiiimeee. Once the holiday season hits, Myrtle Beach transforms into a magical holiday destination, offering festive attractions, dazzling lights, and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. It’s so difficult to pick just 12 but here are our favourites.
See a show or attend a Myrtle Beach event
Topping this list is our favourite part of visiting the Grand Strand area – all the live shows! The live entertainment options merge the vibes of seeing a fun live show with the excitement of being at an all-inclusive beach area. Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas host exciting music and comedy shows that are the highlight of any family vacation. From Broadway-style productions to smaller theatre acts, there’s a diverse selection of shows to choose from.
There are also seasonal shows with highlights including Christmas classics, comedy, and musical tributes. For example, this year, you can see the 35th edition of the holiday-inspired musical Motown Christmas Tribute Show at just under $50 per person.
The Pirates Voyage Christmas show is a must-see. Kids will love the educational and delicious pirate-themed four-course dinner theatre with its live animals, entertainers, divers, and more.
Myrtle Beach’s Holiday-Themed Golf Courses
There are over 100 golf courses in and around Myrtle Beach as the golfing industry represents a significant presence in the area. So much so that Myrtle Beach is known as the “Golf Capital of the World.” Whether you’re an avid golfer or a casual player, holiday golf tournaments or charity events are a great way to set the holiday mood.
Take a stroll at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is a gorgeous walk with views of the ocean, sculptures, restaurants, attractions and stores. During the holidays, the walk sparkles with holiday lights and decorations. You can visit the photoshops, shops and bars, ice cream shops, and restaurants along the way or just enjoy people-watching while you enjoy the live performers on the boardwalk.
And if you’re in for some excitement, you can ride the Sky wheel – a cozy ride in a heated gondola – while enjoying the glittering lights and an unhindered view of the beach.
Nature exploration at and near Myrtle Beach
Outdoor enthusiasts will love a tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach. Join a small group of other nature lovers to explore the wetland and wildlife preserve. You can catch the sight of loggerhead turtles, alligators, various bird species, and more. Plus, the instructors are highly rated for keeping you safe while making sure you learn a whole lot about the environment. You could also leave the beach environment and embark on a guided boat tour near Myrtle Beach with the Waccamaw River Nature and Wildlife Tour.
Holiday shopping
The Grand Strand area is one of the largest shopping areas in the Southeastern United States and is the largest shopping destination in South Carolina. So of course, you can’t afford to miss doing some shopping here. There’s something for everyone. Hunt for gifts, seasonal deals, and holiday sales at one of the largest store spreads in the country.
Museum visit
Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum for a fun group activity with interactive exhibits and the opportunity to get pictures of lifelike wax figures of your favourite famous people. The Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum is another great option. For about $12, you can get unlimited free play on any pinball machine. This is doubly exciting because their collection of machines ranges from machines made in the 1980s to the present day.
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Pier fishing
Visit iconic piers like Apache Pier or Cherry Grove Pier, which have become famous in their own right, where you can fish for flounder, redfish, and trout while soaking in the scenic ocean views. Many piers are festively decorated during the holiday season, adding to the charm.
In-Resort Stay
What says Christmas more than a relaxing vacation indoors at a luxury beach resort? You can’t think of anything because the answer is nothing! Many Myrtle Beach resorts go all out with festive decorations and themed activities so you can enjoy hot chocolate bars, Christmas carol sing-alongs, and even Santa sightings.
An iconic option is a stay at the AAA-rated Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes which promises facilities including an indoor and outdoor pool, a spa and hot tub, and the special treatment of your fantasies.
Enjoy fine dining
The holidays are the best time to treat yourself. And when you’re in the Grand Strand area, it goes without saying. Many fine-dining establishments in Myrtle Beach serve special holiday menus, featuring seasonal favorites. If good food is a non-negotiable for you during the holidays, then you can’t afford to miss Myrtle Beach this December.
Aquarium Visit
Talk about something you don’t do everyday. At the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, adults and kids alike can see and touch sharks, stingrays, hermit crabs, jelly fishes and more.
A recent visitor told Trip Advisor, “I was a little worried that it was going to be a waste of money! Let me tell you, IT WAS A BLAST!!! I never realized how much there is in that building. The glass bottom boat was educational and fun! I never knew I could have so much fun and spend so much time just looking reading taking pictures and watching my granddaughter ooh and awe at everything. She loved it as much as I did! You could spend an entire day there and still be impressed.”
That’s a glowing recommendation that could convince anyone.
Dazzling fireworks
Myrtle Beach is not known for small displays so the holidays are a favourite time to enjoy over-the-top fireworks displays. While the area is famous for its Fourth of July celebrations, the holiday season has its own share
The New Year’s Eve Celebrations are particularly special as there are events everywhere which pair fireworks with live music, food, and festivities. Plus, some beachfront resorts host private fireworks displays for their guests, offering an intimate way to enjoy the dazzling lights over the ocean and usher in the new year.
Outdoor activities for the active beachgoer
Of course, Myrtle Beach is not just glitz and glamour. If your preference is to spend the season enjoying classic beach activities, a variety of options are at your disposal. You can spend your days strolling or hiking across the beach or engaging in more vigorous water activities with surfing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
When should you visit Myrtle Beach?
We recommend that you visit Myrtle Beach every chance you get. 4 holidays a year? Visit all 4 times! You’ll never run out of things to do at this iconic beach and its surroundings. If you’ll be joining the millions who visit every year, you can be sure of year-round fun, 365 days a year, with special seasonal events during the holidays to delight you and your family.
