Take advantage of the mild Myrtle Beach weather in December to explore holiday markets, tour light shows, and soak in the sunshine during a winter getaway. If you love the holidays but hate freezing cold, escape to the coast. The cooler, yet tolerable average temperatures in Myrtle Beach in December are ideal for attending any of the family-friendly festivals, parades, or light displays. And, the city’s shimmering decorations, pop-up carolers, and fully lighted Christmas trees will get you right into the spirit of the season.

How Should I Dress for Myrtle Beach in December?

When packing for a Myrtle Beach vacation in December, fall and spring attire is back in season because 60s-and-sunny feels warm enough to wear shorts and T-shirts during the day, especially if you’re hiking state parks or teeing off at the local golf courses. If you haven’t felt—or even seen—the sun in a while, the average temperature in Myrtle Beach in December might even feel hot. But be prepared to layer up in a light jacket or sweater for evenings out, as the air can get chilly after sundown.

Myrtle Beach Temperatures in December

Though most northern states’ temperatures plummet in December, Myrtle Beach is still relatively warm, so expect daytime highs of 60°F during the holiday season. Occasional cold fronts do come through leaving us with highs in the 40s, but those fronts typically only come through for a few days and only a few times per year. There’s also the occasional warm front that pushes highs into the upper 70s.

Even though the lows can slip at night, visiting Myrtle Beach restaurants, watching Christmas shows at theaters, or swimming at hotels with indoor pools and bubbling hot tubs make lovely indoor entertainment options. With an ocean water temperature of 55°F, it’s too cold to take a dip in the Atlantic, but you can still savor the views from your Myrtle Beach oceanfront hotel balcony and take walks on the beach with a warm cup of coffee in hand.

What’s the Temperature in Myrtle Beach on Christmas?

The average daily temp in Myrtle Beach begins to fall by the end of December, so from Christmas through New Year’s the thermometer may read between 50°F and 60°F during the day, but will still stays above 40°F more nights than not. There are many reasons to visit Myrtle Beach during Christmas, and the weather makes attending all the outdoor festivities a joy. The Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens, the Boardwalk’s Winter Wonderland light show, and Santa meet-and-greets are just some of the enchanting events to check out.

Take a break from shoveling snow and scraping ice and take a trip to the coast to revel in the weather in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in December. The Opry’s Christmas Special and other fun things to do in Myrtle Beach in December come around only once a year, so catch them while you can. Start planning your stay today—Myrtle Beach hotels are happy hosts for magical winter getaways.

How Much Does it Rain in Myrtle Beach in December?

Precipitation amounts typically fall between 2 and 3 inches in December, but that won’t derail your vacation. Most showers are fleeting, so you can still check out the festivities on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and at outdoor holiday markets. If it rains a day or two while you’re here, this list of things to do when it rains in Myrtle Beach ought to keep you entertained. Missing the snow? Head to Center Court at Broadway at the Beach during December to enjoy the snowfall—no shoveling required!