So you’re thinking about heading to the Grand Strand. Most people just assume it’s a standard "beach town" vibe where the sun’s always out and you’re constantly in board shorts. Honestly, that's not exactly how it works. If you show up in January expecting to tan, you're gonna have a bad time.
The reality of myrtle beach sc weather monthly is more like a shifting personality. One month it's a humid, tropical jungle, and a few months later, you might actually see a stray snowflake (rare, but it happens). I’ve seen tourists shivering on the Boardwalk in March because they didn’t realize the Atlantic breeze still has a nasty bite that early in the year.
Basically, the "best" time to visit depends entirely on whether you want to swim, golf, or just hide from the crowds.
The Seasonal Breakdown: A Genuine Look at Myrtle Beach SC Weather Monthly
Let's get real about the numbers. You can find "averages" anywhere, but they don't tell the whole story of how the air actually feels.
Winter (December - February)
This is the "ghost town" phase. It’s quiet. Temperatures usually hover around 55°F to 60°F during the day. January is officially the coldest month, averaging about 47°F as a mean. Right now, in mid-January 2026, we're seeing daytime highs around 47°F and nights dipping into the low 30s.
It's actually pretty great for walking the beach if you have a windbreaker. But swimming? Forget about it. The water temp drops to about 50°F. That’s "hypothermia-fast" cold.
Spring (March - May)
This is when the golf crowd descends. March is still a bit moody with an average high of 68°F, but by May, you’re hitting a gorgeous 83°F. It's easily the most comfortable time to be outside. Humidity hasn't reached "suffocating" levels yet.
May is a bit of a sweet spot. The water is warming up to around 70°F—still brisk, but doable for a quick dip.
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Summer (June - August)
Welcome to the sauna. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 91°F. But the heat index? That's the real killer. It’s not unusual for it to feel like 105°F because of the moisture hanging in the air.
Water temperatures peak at 83-85°F in August. It’s basically like swimming in a lukewarm bath. This is also the rainiest season. You’ll get these massive, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that dump a ton of water in 20 minutes and then disappear like they were never there.
Fall (September - November)
Honestly, September is just "Summer: Part 2." It stays hot (85°F avg). However, October is the hidden gem of myrtle beach sc weather monthly. The crowds vanish, the air hits a perfect 77°F, and the ocean is still warm enough (73°F) for most people to enjoy.
By November, things crisp up. You’re looking at 69°F days. It’s hoodie weather.
Tropical Realities: Hurricane Season
We have to talk about the elephant in the room. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.
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Statistically, the peak is late August through September. While Myrtle Beach doesn't get hit by a major hurricane every year, tropical storms and "indirect" flooding (like what happened with Hurricane Florence in 2018) are a real risk. If you’re booking a trip in September, just get the travel insurance. It’s not being pessimistic; it’s being smart.
Rainfall and Sun: When Will You Actually Be Indoors?
Myrtle Beach gets about 215 sunny days a year. That sounds great on a brochure, but remember that the wettest months are August and September.
- Driest Months: October and November.
- Wettest Months: July and August (mostly thanks to those afternoon storms).
- Annual Rainfall: Usually sits around 47 to 52 inches depending on the year.
If you’re a golfer, April and October are your best bets for staying dry. April is actually the windiest month, though, so watch your drives.
Packing for the Reality of the Grand Strand
Stop overpacking. Or rather, stop packing the wrong things.
If you're coming in the summer, you need light, breathable fabrics. Cotton is okay, but moisture-wicking stuff is better because the humidity is relentless. In the winter, you need layers. A sunny 55-degree day feels great, but once the sun goes down or the wind picks up off the water, you’ll want a real coat.
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For those spring and fall transition months, it’s all about the "Grand Strand Uniform": shorts during the day, a light pullover for the evening.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Trip
- Check the Water Temp, Not Just the Air: If you want to swim comfortably without a wetsuit, don't book before June or after early October.
- Watch the Dew Point: In the summer, look at the dew point on your weather app. Anything over 70°F is going to feel oppressive, regardless of the temperature.
- Book "Shoulder Season" for Golf: October and November offer the best turf conditions and most predictable "cool-but-not-cold" air.
- Stay Alert in September: Always keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center if you're visiting in the fall.
The myrtle beach sc weather monthly patterns aren't just about heat; they're about the Atlantic's influence on everything from your golf game to your afternoon nap. Plan accordingly, and you'll avoid being that tourist buying an overpriced sweatshirt because they thought South Carolina was always tropical.