Surfside Beach and Garden City Beach are both idyllic locations with plenty of activities to enjoy during the mild winter season. With fewer crowds and temperatures that can tempt you to spend time outdoors, the off-season invites coastal living. Check out our guide to some of our favorite things visitors can look forward to during the off-season. Book a Garden City Beach or Surfside Beach vacation rental to experience the shoulder season in this mild, coastal destination!
Winter Weather in Garden City Beach & Surfside Beach
If you’re looking for an escape from the chillier temperatures that come with winter, head to the South Strand near Myrtle Beach. With mild temperatures in the high 50s and only going as low as the 40s, the South Carolina Coast is a perfect place to find an escape from the snow or cold winds of the winter months! Enjoy outdoor activities such as bicycle riding, walking on nature trails in state parks, or exploring local attractions!
- December Average High & Low — 59° / 46°
- January Average High & Low — 55° / 42°
- February Average High & Low — 55° / 42°
Explore the South Strand Without the Crowds
The mild weather will allow you to explore the South Carolina coast with maybe a jacket or a few layers to feel warm. The Murrells Inlet Marshwalk is a destination ideal for those wanting to try a taste of Lowcountry cuisine. With stunning waterfront dining and plenty of live music entertainment, this wooden boardwalk is a must-visit in every season.
Another outdoor activity that can be enjoyed during the winter months is fishing! Inshore fishermen can try their hand at reeling in a Redfish or two. Both fly fishing and spin fishermen can enjoy the winter season, just remember to bundle up before you head out to cast a line!
Take a Day Trip to Experience Off-Season Myrtle Beach
Drive further up the Grand Strand to spend the day exploring Myrtle Beach! Winter is a perfect time of year to visit Myrtle Beach and experience top attractions without the crowds. Myrtle Beach's Off Season is a perfect time to visit Broadway at the Beach which is home to an array of dining, shopping, and live entertainment options. Some of Myrtle Beach's premium entertainment venues include the Carolina Opry Theater, the Alabama Theatre, and the Broadway Theater. Spend the day exploring the many attractions that await in Myrtle Beach!
Things to Do on a Rainy Day
If the weather isn't quite cooperating during your off-season stay on the South Strand, do not worry! There are still plenty of things to do in the greater Myrtle Beach area to keep you and your family entertained. One of our favorite activities includes the Fun Warehouse with go-karts, roller skating, laser tag, and plenty of arcade games.
For even more indoor fun and educational exploring to be had, head to the Ripley’s Aquarium at Myrtle Beach. This Myrtle Beach attraction is a must-see for families looking to learn more about life under the sea.
Relax in a South Strand Vacation Rental
Finally, find yourself at home in a Garden City Beach or Surfside Beach vacation rental. Relaxing in a cozy, open living room or playing a game of cards around a kitchen table are other perfect ways to spend time during an off-season visit to the South Strand. From oceanfront locations, properties with hot tub access, and pet-friendly rentals, you’re sure to find a property that suits your desires for a mild winter getaway.