Where to See Christmas Lights in Myrtle Beach

The holiday season in Myrtle Beach is truly magical. If you love bright, colorful Christmas lights, you’re in the right place. Myrtle Beach offers many spots where you can enjoy festive light displays. Whether you want to drive through sparkling neighborhoods or walk among dazzling decorations, there’s something for everyone.

In this guide, I’ll share the top places to see Christmas lights in Myrtle Beach. You’ll find details on popular neighborhoods, special events, and tips to make your visit smooth and fun. Let’s get started so you can plan your perfect holiday outing.

Top Neighborhoods for Christmas Lights in Myrtle Beach

Many locals and visitors enjoy driving through neighborhoods with beautiful Christmas lights. These areas go all out with decorations, making them perfect for a family outing or a romantic evening drive.

• Ocean Drive Beach and Golf Villas: This neighborhood near the beach lights up with colorful displays. You’ll see houses decorated with bright LED lights, wreaths, and festive inflatables.

• Grande Dunes: Known for its upscale homes, Grande Dunes features elegant light displays. The community often decorates trees and lawns with white and multicolor lights.

• Carolina Forest: This family-friendly neighborhood has many homes with creative light shows. It’s a great place to walk or drive slowly to enjoy the festive spirit.

• Market Common: While more commercial, Market Common has streets lined with holiday lights and decorations. It’s a lively spot with shops and restaurants open late during the season.

Must-Visit Christmas Light Events and Attractions

Myrtle Beach hosts several special events and attractions during the holiday season. These places offer more than just lights—they include music, food, and fun activities for all ages.

• Brookgreen Gardens Nights of a Thousand Candles: This event is a Myrtle Beach holiday tradition. The gardens are decorated with over 5,500 hand-lit candles and thousands of lights. You can stroll through the beautifully lit paths and enjoy live music and holiday treats.

• Festival of Lights at The Market Common: This event features a large light display with themed areas, including Santa’s workshop and a winter wonderland. It’s perfect for families and offers photo opportunities with Santa.

• Holiday Lights on the Boardwalk: The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk lights up with festive decorations. You can enjoy the ocean breeze while walking under colorful arches and light displays.

• Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach: During the holidays, the aquarium decorates with themed lights and offers special holiday shows. It’s a fun indoor option if the weather is chilly.

Best Parks and Public Spaces for Christmas Lights

If you prefer outdoor spaces with plenty of room to walk and explore, Myrtle Beach has several parks and public areas decorated for the holidays.

• Valor Memorial Park: This park often features holiday light displays and decorations honoring veterans. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy lights and reflect on the season.

• Grand Park at Market Common: Grand Park hosts light displays and holiday events. The open space is great for families to enjoy the lights and sometimes holiday music or performances.

• La Belle Amie Vineyard: This vineyard decorates its grounds with festive lights during the holiday season. You can enjoy wine tasting while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.

Tips for Enjoying Christmas Lights in Myrtle Beach

To make the most of your holiday light tour, keep these tips in mind:

• Plan your route: Check online for updated event dates and neighborhood light schedules. Some places may have specific nights for light displays.

• Go early or on weekdays: Popular spots can get crowded on weekends. Early evenings or weekdays are quieter and more enjoyable.

• Dress warmly: Even in Myrtle Beach, December evenings can be chilly. Bring layers and comfortable shoes if you plan to walk.

• Bring a camera: Many displays are perfect for photos. Capture memories with family and friends.

• Respect private property: Stay on sidewalks and roads. Don’t enter yards or disturb decorations.

• Combine with dining or shopping: Many light displays are near restaurants and shops. Plan to enjoy a meal or holiday shopping to make the night special.

Where to Stay for Easy Access to Christmas Lights

Choosing the right place to stay can enhance your holiday experience. Myrtle Beach offers many hotels and resorts near popular light displays.

• Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: Located near the Grande Dunes neighborhood, this hotel offers luxury rooms and easy access to upscale light displays.

• Holiday Inn & Suites Oceanfront: This hotel is close to the Ocean Drive Beach area and the Boardwalk, making it easy to enjoy beachside lights.

• Residence Inn by Marriott Myrtle Beach: Near Market Common, this hotel puts you close to the Festival of Lights and shopping areas.

• Best Western Plus Grand Strand Inn & Suites: A budget-friendly option near Carolina Forest, perfect for visiting family-friendly neighborhoods.

How to Get Around to See the Lights

Transportation matters when visiting multiple light displays. Here are some ways to get around Myrtle Beach during the holidays:

• Drive your own car: Most neighborhoods and parks are best reached by car. Parking is usually available but can fill up on busy nights.

• Use rideshare services: Uber and Lyft operate in Myrtle Beach and can be a safe option if you plan to enjoy holiday drinks.

• Join a holiday light tour: Some local companies offer guided tours on buses or trolleys. This can be fun and stress-free.

• Bike or walk: In areas like Market Common and the Boardwalk, walking or biking is easy and enjoyable.

Additional Holiday Activities in Myrtle Beach

While you’re exploring Christmas lights, consider adding these holiday activities to your trip:

• Holiday shopping at Broadway at the Beach: This large entertainment complex has shops, restaurants, and seasonal events.

• Ice skating at the Myrtle Beach Ice Arena: A fun indoor activity for families and couples.

• Attend a holiday show: The Carolina Opry and Alabama Theatre offer festive performances during the season.

• Visit Santa’s Wonderland: Located nearby in Conway, this drive-through light park features millions of lights and holiday displays.

Conclusion

Myrtle Beach shines brightly during the holiday season. From charming neighborhoods to special events and parks, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy Christmas lights. Whether you want a quiet evening drive or a festive family outing, Myrtle Beach has it all.

Plan your route, dress warmly, and bring your camera. Staying near popular light displays makes your trip easier and more fun. With so many options, you’re sure to create wonderful holiday memories in Myrtle Beach.

FAQs

When do Christmas light displays start in Myrtle Beach?

Most Christmas light displays in Myrtle Beach start in late November, around Thanksgiving, and run through early January. Specific event dates may vary, so check local listings for exact times.

Are there any free Christmas light displays in Myrtle Beach?

Yes, many neighborhoods and public parks offer free Christmas light displays. Areas like Market Common and the Boardwalk have festive lights you can enjoy without an entry fee.

Can I walk through the Christmas light displays?

Some locations, like Brookgreen Gardens and Market Common, allow walking through light displays. Neighborhoods are best enjoyed by driving, but you can walk in areas with sidewalks and public spaces.

Is parking available near popular light displays?

Yes, most popular light spots have parking nearby. However, parking can fill up on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended for the best experience.

Are pets allowed at Christmas light events in Myrtle Beach?

Policies vary by location. Outdoor neighborhood displays usually allow pets on leashes, but events like Brookgreen Gardens may have restrictions. Always check event rules before bringing pets.