Few places shine as brightly as Myrtle Beach when it comes to a coastal Christmas. This vibrant seaside destination transforms into a charming winter wonderland with dazzling light displays and festive shows. Thanks to its mild temperatures, it’s an ideal spot for families, couples, and friends looking to celebrate the season comfortably.
A Myrtle Beach Christmas offers the perfect mix of holiday magic, from twinkling lights to lively events and unique shopping experiences. Wander through holiday markets, find special gifts, and participate in festive seaside celebrations. The holiday spirit fills every corner, making Myrtle Beach the ultimate destination for a memorable Christmas escape.
Keep reading to discover the best Christmas lights, shows, and attractions Myrtle Beach offers!
Best Myrtle Beach Christmas Lights
Myrtle Beach comes alive during the holiday season with some of the East Coast’s most spectacular Christmas light displays. Whether you’re strolling through candlelit gardens or driving through dazzling displays, the area’s festive lights create unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Here are the top Christmas lights shows you won’t want to miss.
1. Brookgreen Gardens: Nights of a Thousand Candles
Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles is a breathtaking holiday tradition in Myrtle Beach. Wander through paths illuminated by over 2,700 hand-lit candles and countless twinkling lights while enjoying live Christmas carols and seasonal treats like hot cocoa and warm cider. The magical glow creates a romantic and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples or families looking to celebrate the holiday season.
This event is often named one of Southeast’s best holiday light displays, making it a must-see during your Myrtle Beach Christmas adventure.
2. Ripley’s Festival of Trees
Ripley’s Aquarium brings holiday magic to life with its annual Festival of Trees, a spectacular display of over 50 beautifully decorated Christmas trees. Each tree is uniquely themed to represent a U.S. state, adorned with ornaments and decorations that showcase local culture and traditions. Wander through the aquarium’s exhibits while enjoying this festive display, making it a fun and educational holiday experience for the entire family.
The vibrant trees, paired with the aquatic wonders of Ripley’s, create a memorable and joyful way to celebrate the holiday season in Myrtle Beach.
3. Winter Wonderland at the Beach
Winter Wonderland at the Beach transforms the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk into a festive holiday destination. This holiday event features sparkling light displays, an outdoor ice skating rink, and festive holiday markets offering seasonal treats and unique gifts. Stroll along the beautifully decorated boardwalk, take in the twinkling coastal lights, and enjoy live entertainment, creating a fun-filled holiday experience for visitors of all ages.
Winter Wonderland at the Beach perfectly captures the magic of a Myrtle Beach Christmas, offering families and couples a memorable way to celebrate the holiday season.
4. The Great Christmas Light Show
The Great Christmas Light Show in North Myrtle Beach is a holiday spectacle you can’t miss, especially if you love the Christmas lights Myrtle Beach is famous for. This massive drive-through event boasts over 2 million twinkling lights and more than 500 custom-made displays, many of which are animated to bring the holiday spirit to life. After enjoying the dazzling lights, visitors can stop by Santa’s Village to meet Santa, sip hot cocoa, and explore holiday crafts and activities.
Perfect for families, this event blends the magic of Christmas lights with festive, hands-on fun, making it one of the most cherished traditions in the Myrtle Beach area.
5. Barefoot Landing Christmas Lights
Barefoot Landing comes alive with holiday cheer during the Christmas season, offering a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and festive lights. Stroll through this popular waterfront destination as it’s beautifully illuminated with twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for families and couples. In addition to the shimmering displays, Barefoot Landing hosts seasonal events like Christmas tree lightings, live music, and visits from Santa Claus. Whether you’re enjoying a holiday meal, shopping for unique gifts, or simply soaking in the lights, the Christmas spirit shines brightly at Barefoot Landing, making it a must-see in Myrtle Beach.
Must-See Christmas Attractions in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach offers many exciting holiday attractions that bring festive cheer to visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for unique Christmas shopping, seasonal events along the coast, or world-class holiday performances, Myrtle Beach has something special to offer everyone during the holiday season.
The Christmas Mouse
Step into the Christmas Mouse Myrtle Beach, a charming holiday store that feels like a winter wonderland. Packed with everything Christmas—from ornaments and stockings to festive home décor and collectibles—this shop has something for everyone. Whether you want to decorate your tree or find the perfect holiday keepsake, the Christmas Mouse Myrtle Beach has it all. Its magical atmosphere and wide variety make it a favorite stop for locals and visitors, offering year-round unique, high-quality Christmas decorations.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Holiday Events
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk transforms into a holiday hotspot during the Christmas season, hosting a variety of festive events and activities for all ages. Enjoy holiday parades, Christmas markets, and live entertainment against the stunning Atlantic Ocean backdrop.
Visitors can also participate in tree lightings, meet and greet with Santa, and stroll along the boardwalk illuminated by holiday lights.
Whether you’re enjoying the seaside views or indulging in seasonal treats, the Boardwalk offers a blend of coastal charm and holiday excitement, making it a must-visit attraction during a Myrtle Beach Christmas.
Grand Strand Shows
The Grand Strand is home to some of the most spectacular holiday performances in Myrtle Beach, offering something for everyone during the Christmas season.
Iconic shows like The Carolina Opry Christmas Special and The South’s Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theatre bring holiday classics to life with music, dance, and dazzling costumes. Families can also enjoy unique experiences like Dolly Parton’s Pirates Voyage Christmas Show, combining action-packed performances with a festive twist. These live shows deliver a magical holiday experience and are a top attraction for visitors looking to celebrate Christmas in Myrtle Beach.
Family-Friendly Activities and Holiday Cheer
Myrtle Beach is packed with exciting, family-friendly holiday activities that will create lasting memories for kids and adults alike. From ice skating to meeting Santa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the festive season.
Ice Skating and Holiday Festivals
At Winter Wonderland at the Beach, families can lace up their skates and glide across the outdoor ice skating rink while soaking in the festive holiday atmosphere. The rink, located along the scenic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, is the centerpiece of this family-friendly event. After skating, you can explore holiday-themed markets with unique gifts, local crafts, and seasonal treats like hot cocoa and cookies. This combination of activities offers the perfect way to enjoy the magic of a Myrtle Beach Christmas while creating fun memories with the whole family.
Santa Meet-and-Greets
Christmas isn’t complete without a visit to Santa Claus, and Myrtle Beach offers several opportunities to make that happen. Bring your kids to Santa’s Village at The Great Christmas Light Show, where they can meet Santa, take pictures, and share their holiday wish lists. The fun continues with interactive holiday crafts, festive music, and even more Christmas lights. You can also find Santa at events along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where he appears during parades and holiday celebrations. Meeting Santa in these magical settings will make this Christmas special for your little ones.
Family Photo Opportunities
Myrtle Beach is full of picturesque spots to capture those perfect holiday moments with your family. The glowing pathways of Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles offer an enchanting backdrop for unforgettable photos, while the beautifully decorated trees at Ripley’s Aquarium provide a fun, festive setting for holiday portraits. Whether posing by twinkling Christmas lights or colorful holiday displays, these locations create the ideal atmosphere for snapping photos that will keep your family’s Christmas memories alive for years.
Kid-Friendly Shows
Holiday entertainment in Myrtle Beach includes a variety of kid-friendly shows designed to get the whole family into the festive spirit. The South’s Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theatre is a perfect example, featuring lively holiday music, dancing, and vibrant costumes. This fun-filled performance is ideal for children and adults alike, as it’s packed with humor, warmth, and seasonal joy. Other local venues also offer magical holiday performances, ensuring your family has plenty of options to enjoy the excitement of Christmas together.
The Marina Inn at Grande Dunes offers a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a holiday getaway. With special holiday packages, festive decor, and comfortable accommodations, it’s an ideal home base for families looking to experience all Myrtle Beach’s holiday magic.
Romantic Christmas Getaways for Couples
Myrtle Beach isn’t just for families—it’s also the perfect romantic destination for couples seeking to create unforgettable Christmas memories. From enchanting light displays to quiet beach walks, this coastal gem has everything you need for a magical holiday getaway.
Evening Light Displays
For a romantic holiday evening, take a stroll through the candlelit pathways of Brookgreen Gardens’ Nights of a Thousand Candles. The soft glow of thousands of hand-lit candles sets the perfect scene for couples. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore or through the festive displays at Winter Wonderland at the Beach, making for a cozy and memorable night.
Cozy Evenings at Marina Inn
At Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, couples can enjoy a romantic and luxurious Myrtle Beach Christmas with our exclusive couple packages. Celebrate the season with a peaceful escape in our elegant accommodations, featuring cozy fireplaces and private balconies with scenic views. Our romantic packages include added touches like breakfast for two, in-room champagne, and rose petals, making your holiday getaway even more special. With the serene ambiance of Marina Inn, this is the perfect setting to create unforgettable Christmas memories together.
Quiet Beach Walks
Few things are as romantic as a moonlit walk along Myrtle Beach’s serene coastline. Spend a quiet evening strolling hand-in-hand along the shore, or wander through Barefoot Landing to admire the sparkling Christmas lights. These peaceful moments allow you to fully soak in the holiday magic together.
Whether you’re seeking glowing light displays or intimate, cozy moments, Myrtle Beach provides endless opportunities for a romantic Christmas getaway tailored just for you and your partner.
Christmas Events at the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
The Marina Inn at Grande Dunes elevates the holiday experience with exclusive Christmas events and activities that make your stay truly magical. From festive decor to personalized touches, the Marina Inn offers a luxurious holiday getaway for families and couples alike.
Festive Decor and Atmosphere
As soon as you enter the Marina Inn, you’ll be greeted by beautifully decorated holiday settings that radiate warmth and elegance. The twinkling lights, adorned Christmas trees, and cozy ambiance create a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for celebrating the season and capturing that festive holiday spirit.
Holiday Dining at WaterScapes Restaurant
Treat yourself to a gourmet Christmas feast at the renowned WaterScapes Restaurant, located at the Marina Inn. The holiday menu offers indulgent, chef-prepared meals in an elegant yet relaxed setting, making your holiday dining experience both delicious and memorable. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Christmas with loved ones over a thoughtfully curated meal.
Personalized Experiences
The Marina Inn goes above and beyond to create tailored guest experiences. Whether you’re celebrating with family or as a couple, the resort offers personalized services to ensure your holiday is both memorable and stress-free. From curated family activities to romantic dinners, the Marina Inn ensures your Christmas is everything you imagined.
FAQs about Myrtle Beach Christmas
I. Is Myrtle Beach good for Christmas?
Yes! Myrtle Beach is a wonderful Christmas destination with its mild winter weather, dazzling light displays, and festive shows. Holiday activities, such as ice skating, Christmas markets, and world-class performances, make it a perfect spot for families, couples, and friends to celebrate the season and enjoy the coastal charm.
II. What is the temperature in Myrtle Beach at Christmas?
In December, Myrtle Beach enjoys average temperatures ranging between 45°F to 65°F. This mild weather allows for outdoor activities like strolling along the beach, visiting light displays, and enjoying holiday events comfortably without the harsh winter chill.
III. Is everything open in Myrtle Beach in December?
Yes, most attractions, restaurants, and shops in Myrtle Beach remain open throughout December. Many even host special holiday events, extended shopping hours, and Christmas-themed entertainment, ensuring visitors have plenty to enjoy during their holiday visit.
IV. Where is the Winter Wonderland in Myrtle Beach?
The Winter Wonderland is located at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. This festive event features ice skating, holiday-themed markets, and beautiful light displays, making it a must-visit spot for holiday fun along the scenic Atlantic coast.
V. Which Myrtle Beach Christmas Show is the best?
Two of the top Christmas shows in Myrtle Beach are “The Carolina Opry Christmas Special” and “The South’s Grandest Christmas Show” at the Alabama Theatre. Both feature stunning performances filled with music, dance, and holiday spirit, making them must-see events for holiday visitors.
VI. Is Myrtle Beach crowded at Christmas?
No, Myrtle Beach tends to be less crowded during Christmas compared to the busy summer months. This offers visitors a more relaxed, intimate experience, allowing them to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the larger crowds fully.
Do You Have More Questions?
If you have more questions about planning your perfect Myrtle Beach Christmas, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you create an unforgettable holiday experience at the Marina Inn, where coastal charm meets holiday magic!
Experience the Ultimate Myrtle Beach Christmas at Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
Myrtle Beach transforms into a magical holiday destination, filled with enchanting light displays, festive shows, and endless seasonal activities. At Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, we offer a serene retreat for families and couples alike, making it the perfect home base to experience all the holiday magic that Myrtle Beach has to offer.
Book your stay today and make your Myrtle Beach Christmas truly unforgettable!
