When Does Myrtle Beach Open? Seasonal Guide & Travel Tips

Introduction

If you are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, you might wonder when the city officially opens for visitors. Myrtle Beach is a popular coastal destination in South Carolina known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and lively boardwalk. Knowing the best time to visit can help you enjoy your stay without missing out on key activities and events.

In this guide, I will explain when Myrtle Beach opens each year, what to expect during different seasons, and how to choose the best time for your trip. You will also find tips on hotels, attractions, and travel planning to make your visit smooth and fun.

When Does Myrtle Beach Open for the Season?

Myrtle Beach does not have a strict opening date like a theme park, but the city’s tourism season generally starts in early spring and runs through late fall. The official tourism season usually kicks off around March or April, when the weather warms up and most attractions and hotels reopen after winter.

Here’s what you can expect by season:

• Spring (March to May): Many hotels and restaurants reopen. The weather is mild, and the beach starts to get busy by late April.

• Summer (June to August): Peak season with warm weather, crowded beaches, and full access to all attractions and events.

• Fall (September to November): The crowds thin out, but many hotels and attractions remain open. The weather is still pleasant for beach activities.

• Winter (December to February): Off-season with fewer open hotels and attractions. Some places close for maintenance or holidays.

Most major hotels, restaurants, and attractions aim to be fully open by Memorial Day weekend in late May. This weekend is often seen as the unofficial start of the busy summer season.

Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach

Choosing when to visit Myrtle Beach depends on what you want from your trip. Here are some tips to help you decide:

• For warm beach weather: Visit between late May and early September when temperatures are in the 80s and 90s (°F).

• For fewer crowds and lower prices: Plan your trip in spring (March-April) or fall (September-October). The weather is still nice, but the beaches are less busy.

• For events and festivals: Summer has many festivals like the Carolina Country Music Fest in June and the Myrtle Beach Bike Week in May.

• For budget travel: Winter offers the lowest hotel rates, but many attractions may be closed or limited.

Keep in mind that Myrtle Beach’s weather can be unpredictable in early spring and late fall, with occasional rain or cooler days.

Top Hotels Open in Myrtle Beach Season

Many hotels in Myrtle Beach operate year-round, but some open seasonally. Here are some top hotel options that welcome guests during the main season:

• Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes: A luxury oceanfront resort open year-round with pools, spa, and golf nearby.

• Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort: Located on the boardwalk, it offers easy beach access and is open most of the year.

• Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: Family-friendly with indoor and outdoor pools, open year-round.

• Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach Oceanfront: Popular for families, open year-round with many amenities.

• Ocean Reef Resort: Seasonal hotel that typically opens in spring and closes after fall.

Booking early for summer stays is important as hotels fill up fast during peak season. For spring and fall, you can often find good deals and more availability.

Popular Attractions and When They Open

Myrtle Beach has many attractions that open seasonally. Here are some popular spots and their usual opening times:

• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Open year-round, with shops and restaurants operating mostly from spring through fall.

• SkyWheel Myrtle Beach: The iconic Ferris wheel opens in early spring and runs through fall, weather permitting.

• Broadway at the Beach: Open year-round, but some entertainment venues and shops have seasonal hours.

• Myrtle Waves Water Park: Opens late May and closes early September.

• Ripley’s Aquarium: Open year-round with indoor exhibits.

Check attraction websites before your trip to confirm hours and any special events or closures.

Tips for Planning Your Myrtle Beach Trip

To make your Myrtle Beach vacation smooth and enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:

• Book accommodations early: Especially for summer, hotels fill quickly. Spring and fall offer more flexibility.

• Check weather forecasts: Myrtle Beach weather can change quickly in shoulder seasons.

• Plan for traffic: Summer weekends and holidays can bring heavy traffic on highways and near the beach.

• Look for package deals: Many hotels offer discounts on combined stays and attraction tickets.

• Consider travel insurance: To protect your trip from weather delays or cancellations.

Also, explore local dining and entertainment options beyond the beach to get the full Myrtle Beach experience.

Getting to Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is easy to reach by car, plane, or bus. Here are your main options:

• By car: Myrtle Beach is accessible via U.S. Highway 17 and Interstate 95. Many visitors drive from nearby states like North Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia.

• By plane: Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) offers flights from major U.S. cities. It is about 10 minutes from the beach area.

• By bus: Greyhound and other bus services connect Myrtle Beach with regional cities.

Once in town, rental cars, taxis, and rideshares make it easy to get around.

Conclusion

Myrtle Beach opens for visitors mainly in early spring, with the busiest season running from late May through early September. Many hotels and attractions operate year-round, but some close during the winter months. Planning your trip around the season helps you enjoy the best weather, events, and prices.

Whether you want a lively summer vacation or a quieter spring or fall getaway, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of options. Booking early, checking attraction hours, and knowing when the city opens will help you have a great time on this beautiful South Carolina coast.

FAQs

When does Myrtle Beach’s tourism season officially start?

The tourism season usually starts in March or April when the weather warms and most hotels and attractions reopen for visitors.

Are all Myrtle Beach hotels open year-round?

Many hotels operate year-round, but some smaller or seasonal hotels close during winter months and reopen in spring.

When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach for fewer crowds?

Spring (March-April) and fall (September-October) offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather, making them ideal for a quieter visit.

What are some popular Myrtle Beach attractions open in winter?

Indoor attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and Broadway at the Beach remain open year-round, even during winter.

How can I get to Myrtle Beach?

You can drive via U.S. Highway 17, fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport, or take a bus service from nearby cities.