North Myrtle Beach winter activities offer the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation for your coastal getaway. While most people think about visiting during summer, winter brings something truly special to our area. At Salty Stay, we’ve seen guests fall in love with the peaceful beaches, festive holiday shows, and cozy dining spots that make winter here unforgettable. The cooler weather means fewer crowds, better deals, and a chance to experience North Myrtle Beach like a local.
Our luxury vacation rentals provide the perfect home base for your winter adventures. With heated pools, hot tubs, and game rooms, you’ll have plenty of comfort when you return from exploring. Let’s dive into the best winter activities that make this season one of our favorite times to welcome guests to North Myrtle Beach, USA.
Top Winter Activities in North Myrtle Beach
1. The Great Christmas Light Show
The Great Christmas Light Show is the most amazing holiday display you’ll ever see! This drive-through experience features over 2 million lights spread across more than 500 different displays. You’ll drive slowly through a winter wonderland while staying warm in your car.
⭐ Ratings: Perfect for families
💵 Price Level: $20-$25 per vehicle
📍 Location: North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex
⏰ Opening Hours: November 24 – December 30, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
📞 Contact: Available at the entrance
Santa’s Village is open on select nights where kids can meet Santa, ride the Santa Express Train, and enjoy hot chocolate. This magical experience is just minutes from our Salty Stay properties, making it easy to enjoy the lights and return to your cozy vacation rental.
2. Carolina Opry Christmas Special
The Carolina Opry Christmas Special is known as “The Christmas Show of the South” and delivers pure holiday magic. This spectacular show features amazing singers, dancers, and the famous All That! Clogging Group.
⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (4723 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Mid-range
📍 Location: 8901 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1800-843-6779
⏰ Opening Hours: Show times vary by season
The winter wonderland stage production includes beautiful costumes, festive music, and comedy that brings families together. After the show, you can return to your Salty Stay rental to discuss your favorite moments around the fireplace.
Learn more about Carolina Opry Christmas Special
3. Alabama Theatre’s Christmas Show
Alabama Theatre’s The South’s Grandest Christmas Show has been voted the area’s top Christmas production year after year. The show combines special effects, beloved carols, and amazing performances.
⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (3221 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Mid-range
📍 Location: 4750 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-272-1111
⏰ Opening Hours: Show times vary by season
The dazzling special effects and classic holiday music create memories that last forever. This theater is close to our vacation rentals, so you can easily walk back to enjoy your heated pool or hot tub after the show.
Learn more about Alabama Theatre’s Christmas Show
4. Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre Christmas Show
Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre brings small-town charm to the holiday season with “Christmas on Main.” This heartfelt show captures the cozy feeling of a perfect holiday postcard.
⭐ Ratings: 4.9/5 (1231 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Budget-friendly
📍 Location: 701 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-663-3600
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 11 AM-7 PM, Sunday 1-5 PM
This intimate theater creates a warm atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action. The show mixes comedy, music, and holiday spirit in a way that makes everyone feel like family.
Learn more about Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre
5. Beach Walks and Surf Fishing
Winter beach walks offer a peaceful way to enjoy North Myrtle Beach’s 9-mile stretch of sandy coastline. The cooler air and smaller crowds make this the perfect time for long strolls and surf fishing adventures.
💵 Price Level: Free (fishing license required for surf fishing)
📍 Location: All North Myrtle Beach public access points
⏰ Opening Hours: 24 hours daily
Surf fishing is excellent before dawn and after sunset when the fish are most active. Many sandcastle-makers still enjoy building in the cooler weather, and you’ll often spot dolphins playing in the waves.
After your beach time, return to your Salty Stay rental where you can rinse off in your private shower and warm up by the fireplace. Our beachfront properties make beach access incredibly easy.
6. Barefoot Landing Holiday Shopping
Barefoot Landing transforms into a festive shopping paradise during winter months. The Barefoot Landing Tree Lighting ceremony kicks off the holiday season with twinkling lights and family entertainment.
⭐ Ratings: Perfect for holiday shopping
💵 Price Level: Varies by store
📍 Location: 4850 US-17, North Myrtle Beach, SC
⏰ Opening Hours: Store hours vary
📞 Contact: Individual store contacts
You’ll find unique gifts at PURPLEologist, sample muscadine wine at Duplin Winery, and enjoy family attractions like Alligator Adventure. The carousel and dozens of shops make this a perfect day-long adventure.
Learn more about PURPLEologist
7. Duplin Winery Wine Tastings
Duplin Winery at Barefoot Landing offers warm indoor tastings of their famous muscadine wines. Winter is the perfect time to sample different flavors while staying cozy inside.
⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (3308 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Affordable tastings
📍 Location: 4650 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1910-289-3888
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 12-8 PM, Sunday Closed
The knowledgeable staff helps you find the perfect wine to take back to your vacation rental. Many guests enjoy purchasing bottles to share during cozy evenings in their Salty Stay game rooms.
Learn more about Duplin Winery
8. Alligator Adventure Winter Tours
Alligator Adventure stays open year-round and offers a unique winter experience. The cooler weather makes the alligators more active, and you’ll have more space to explore without summer crowds.
⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (4734 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Family-friendly pricing
📍 Location: 4604 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-361-0789
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 10 AM – 4 PM
This hands-on wildlife park lets you see alligators and other exotic animals up close. Kids love the interactive exhibits, and adults appreciate the educational programs about reptile conservation.
Learn more about Alligator Adventure
9. Horseback Riding Adventures
Inlet Point Plantation offers magical horseback riding through pecan groves and around Waites Island. Winter weather makes these rides comfortable and the scenery even more beautiful.
⭐ Ratings: 4.8/5 (266 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Mid-range adventure pricing
📍 Location: 5800 Little River Neck Road, North Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-249-2989
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9 AM – 3 PM, Sunday Closed
This Smith family-owned attraction provides horses for riders 7 years and older, with pony rides available for younger children. The peaceful trails offer a unique way to explore the natural beauty of our area.
Learn more about Inlet Point Plantation
10. Barefoot Queen Riverboat Cruise
The Barefoot Queen offers winter cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway where you can stay warm inside while enjoying beautiful water views. These scenic tours show off our area’s natural beauty.
⭐ Ratings: 4.7/5 (1370 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Family-friendly cruise pricing
📍 Location: 2041 Bridge View Ct, North Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-390-2017
⏰ Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, Sunday Closed
Winter cruises often include special holiday themes and the chance to see the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta. The heated cabin keeps everyone comfortable while you watch for dolphins and local wildlife.
Learn more about The Barefoot Queen
11. Winter Golf Adventures
North Myrtle Beach’s golf courses stay open all winter with perfect weather for playing. The cooler temperatures and fewer golfers make this an ideal time to enjoy championship courses.
💵 Price Level: Winter rates often discounted
📍 Location: Multiple courses throughout North Myrtle Beach
⏰ Opening Hours: Vary by course
Grande Dunes Resort Course and other top-rated courses offer winter specials and easier tee time booking. Many guests staying at Salty Stay enjoy morning golf rounds followed by afternoon relaxation in their private hot tubs.
12. Main Street Boutique Shopping
Main Street boutiques offer unique finds and locally-owned shops perfect for winter browsing. Hot Honey Boutique and Salty South Mercantile showcase coastal-themed gifts and seasonal items.
⭐ Ratings: Local favorites with high ratings
💵 Price Level: Boutique pricing varies
📍 Location: Various Main Street locations
⏰ Opening Hours: Generally 10 AM – 5 PM, Sunday hours vary
These charming shops offer personalized service and one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else. Many feature local artisans and coastal-themed merchandise perfect for gifts or vacation souvenirs.
13. Mini-Golf and Indoor Entertainment
Winter weather makes mini-golf comfortable and indoor attractions more appealing. The Hollywood Wax Museum offers interactive fun with celebrity wax figures and a mirror maze.
⭐ Ratings: 4.6/5 (6727 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Family attraction pricing
📍 Location: 1808 21st Ave N unit a, Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-444-0091
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM – 9 PM
These attractions provide perfect backup plans for cooler days and offer zombie-themed adventures that older kids and adults love. After indoor fun, you can warm up in your Salty Stay game room.
Learn more about Hollywood Wax Museum
14. Ripley’s Aquarium Winter Visits
Ripley’s Aquarium at Broadway at the Beach provides indoor warmth and amazing marine life exhibits. Winter visits mean smaller crowds and more time to enjoy the underwater tunnel experience.
⭐ Ratings: 4.5/5 (22955 reviews)
💵 Price Level: Family attraction pricing
📍 Location: 1110 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC
📞 Contact: +1843-916-0888
⏰ Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM – 7 PM (extended weekend hours)
The hands-on exhibits let you touch jellyfish and interact with rays. Broadway at the Beach also offers restaurants and shops, making it perfect for a full day of indoor entertainment.
Learn more about Ripley’s Aquarium
15. Holiday Deals Shopping
Tanger Outlets and Coastal Grand Mall offer amazing winter shopping with holiday deals and extended hours. These shopping destinations provide warm indoor environments perfect for cooler days.
⭐ Ratings: Popular shopping destinations
💵 Price Level: Outlet and retail pricing
📍 Location: Multiple locations in Myrtle Beach area
⏰ Opening Hours: Extended holiday hours
You’ll find great deals on name-brand clothing and holiday gifts. The indoor malls provide comfort during cooler weather, and many stores offer special winter promotions.
Tips for Your Perfect Winter Stay
Winter in North Myrtle Beach offers unique advantages that summer visitors miss. Here at Salty Stay, we’ve learned what makes winter stays truly special for our guests.
Pack Smart for Winter Weather
Bring layers including light jackets and sweaters for cooler mornings and evenings. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring the Boardwalk and parks. Pack festive attire for holiday shows and events, plus swimwear for our heated pools and hot tubs.
Book Holiday Shows Early
Popular festive shows at Carolina Opry, Alabama Theatre, and Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre fill up quickly during winter months. We recommend booking tickets soon after you reserve your Salty Stay vacation rental.
Take Advantage of Winter Rates
Many local attractions offer winter discounts and specials. Golf courses, restaurants, and tours often have reduced rates during the off-season, letting you enjoy more activities for less money.
Use Our Game Rooms on Cool Days
Our Salty Stay properties feature entertainment-packed game rooms perfect for relaxing when you want a break from outdoor activities. These spaces are ideal for family time and group entertainment.
For more winter activity ideas, check out our area guide which highlights seasonal attractions and local favorites.
Wrapping Up Your Winter North Myrtle Beach Adventure
North Myrtle Beach winter activities create magical memories that last long after your vacation ends. From spectacular holiday light displays and heartwarming Christmas shows to peaceful beach walks and cozy shopping adventures, winter here offers experiences you simply can’t find during busy summer months.
Staying at Salty Stay enhances every winter activity with luxury amenities designed for large groups. After exploring Christmas light shows or enjoying dinner at beachfront restaurants, you’ll return to heated pools, hot tubs, and spacious game rooms perfect for family bonding time. Our first and second-row ocean properties keep you close to all the winter magic while providing the comfort and entertainment space that makes group vacations truly special.
The combination of fewer crowds, mild weather, and festive atmosphere makes winter the perfect time to discover why so many families choose North Myrtle Beach for their holiday getaways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a peaceful coastal retreat, our luxury vacation rentals provide the perfect home base for your winter adventures.
Start planning your unforgettable winter vacation today by visiting saltystay.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best North Myrtle Beach winter activities for families?
The Great Christmas Light Show, holiday shows at Carolina Opry and Alabama Theatre, and Alligator Adventure are perfect for families. These activities offer indoor comfort and magical experiences that kids and adults love. Our Salty Stay game rooms also provide entertainment when you want to stay in.
Is the weather good for outdoor North Myrtle Beach winter activities?
Yes! Winter weather here is mild with comfortable temperatures perfect for beach walks, horseback riding, and outdoor exploration. You’ll want to bring light layers for cooler mornings and evenings, but most days are pleasant for outdoor fun.
Do North Myrtle Beach winter activities include holiday events?
Absolutely! Winter brings amazing holiday displays, Christmas parades, tree lightings, and festive shows. The Great Christmas Light Show and holiday productions at local theaters create magical experiences you can’t find other times of year.
Can I still enjoy the beach during North Myrtle Beach winter activities?
Definitely! Winter beach walks are peaceful and beautiful with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Surf fishing is excellent, and you might spot dolphins playing in the waves. Our beachfront Salty Stay properties make beach access easy any time of day.
What makes Salty Stay perfect for North Myrtle Beach winter activities?
Our luxury vacation rentals feature heated pools, hot tubs, and game rooms that provide comfort after outdoor adventures. Being first or second-row to the ocean means easy beach access, while our spacious properties accommodate large groups with entertainment amenities perfect for cozy winter evenings.
Are there good shopping options among North Myrtle Beach winter activities?
Yes! Barefoot Landing, Main Street boutiques, and nearby malls offer excellent winter shopping with holiday deals. You’ll find unique coastal gifts, local wines, and name-brand bargains. Many shops feature holiday decorations and special seasonal merchandise during winter months.
