Uniquely Coastal Celebrations in Myrtle Beach
Forget the snow, friends. Picture this: you’re swapping out cozy firesides for ocean breezes this holiday season. Down in Myrtle Beach, the holidays have a bit of a coastal twist. From the vibrant Boardwalk along the oceanfront to the historic charm of riverside Conway, this area is lighting up its 14 different communities with more than just festive cheer.
Visiting the Oceanfront Boardwalk
You won't find reindeer hoof prints on these sands, but what you will discover is Winter Wonderland at The Beach, a festival of light from November 25, 2026, through January 2, 2027. A mile of oceanfront glow and patriotic lights honor America’s 250th anniversary, while the new Holly Dolly Christmas corridor dazzles with butterflies in Dolly Parton’s honor.
“Holidays at The Beach are about discovering the unique traditions each community brings to the season,” said Stuart Butler, President of Visit Myrtle Beach.
Take the SkyWheel’s bird’s-eye view to really appreciate those sparkling lights. Pair it with The Carolina Opry Christmas Special or a performance at Pirates Voyage for a night of non-stop entertainment.
Riverside Revelry in Conway
Conway transforms into a Christmas village like something out of a postcard, with holiday displays and a glowing Riverwalk. Known as the “Holiday Capital of South Carolina,” this enchanting town hosts the Rivertown Christmas Celebration on December 10 and 17, where shops stay open late and live oak trees provide a festive canopy.
More Joy Across Every Community
In North Myrtle Beach, the holiday spirit kicks off with 'Lighting of the Landing'—bring on the fireworks and Santa sightings! Driving through The Great Christmas Light Show or catching a Christmas Parade offers holiday magic you can’t drive past without smiling.
Down at Murrells Inlet, the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” take in the MarshWalk Wonderland of Lights alongside delicious seafood. It’s all illuminated through December 31, while Brookgreen Gardens surprises with 2,700 hand-lit candles on select nights.
- Surfside Beach: Pair the Christmas Parade with an oceanfront stroll, cocoa and charcuterie in hand.
- Little River: Waterfront Winterland at Crab Catchers is a community staple; don't forget the boat parade along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Planning Your Visit
Myrtle Beach makes the whole deal easy on the wallet and on time. With nearly half of the US population within a day’s drive and over 50 nonstop destinations via the Myrtle Beach International Airport, holiday travelers are well-covered. Breeze Airways just made things even breezier with 12 new nonstop routes, making them the largest carrier here.
The best part? Plenty of holiday lodging deals from package offers to fully equipped multi-bedroom suites make an extended stay alluring and budget-friendly.
Stepping Away from the Hustle
With so much buzz, don’t forget to slow down a notch. Morning walks along the Boardwalk or in Myrtle Beach State Park let you embrace the quiet beauty of a coastal winter. Golfers, rejoice—off-season rates are ready on over 80 courses.
For more details, gear up to explore VisitMyrtleBeach.com and dive into what promises to be a holiday experience both vibrant and relaxing, against the unforgettable backdrop of South Carolina’s inviting shores.
