So, you’re thinking about heading to the Grand Strand. Maybe you’re envisioning that classic postcard scene: sweating under a cabana with a frozen drink while the Atlantic looks like a sheet of glass. Or maybe you’re one of those people who thinks South Carolina is basically a tropical island 365 days a year.
Honestly, that’s where things get kinda tricky.
The temperature Myrtle Beach puts out varies wildly depending on whether you’re looking at the actual air temp or what the humid air does to your skin. If you’re checking the weather today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, the current vibe is a bit moody. It’s 58°F right now with a mostly cloudy sky. We’re looking at a high of 61°F later today and a low of 42°F tonight.
Is it "beach weather"? Not unless you’re from Saskatchewan. But for a January walk on the boardwalk, it’s actually pretty decent.
The Humid Subtropical Reality
People throw around the term "subtropical" like it means "Hawaii." It doesn’t. In Myrtle Beach, that classification basically means you’re going to get hit with a wall of humidity in July and a surprising bite in the air come January.
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Take a look at the typical swings throughout the year.
In the dead of winter—think January and February—the average highs hover around 55°F to 58°F. It’s crisp. Sometimes, the thermometer dips into the 30s at night. Believe it or not, this place has seen real snow. Back in 1989, a "white Christmas" dumped 14 inches on the sand. People were literally skiing on the dunes. Just a few days ago, on January 21, 2025, the city actually tied a record with 5 inches of the white stuff.
Spring is when the magic happens.
By April, the air temp hits a comfortable 73°F. This is the "sweet spot" for golfers. The humidity hasn't turned into a physical entity yet, and you can actually walk to your car without needing a second shower.
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Then comes the summer heat. July is the heavyweight champion here. You’re looking at average highs of 88°F to 91°F, but with the humidity, the "feels like" temp regularly pushes past 100°F.
What About the Water?
This is the big misconception. People assume if it’s 85°F outside in May, they can jump right in the ocean.
Bad move.
The Atlantic is slow to wake up. In May, the water temperature is often still a chilly 69°F to 73°F. It’s refreshing for about thirty seconds before your toes go numb. If you want that "bathwater" feel, you have to wait until August when the ocean peaks at 83°F. Interestingly, the water stays warm long after the kids go back to school. In September, the ocean is still a gorgeous 80°F, which is why the locals call it "Secret Summer."
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Seasonal Breakdown: When to Actually Go
- The Tourist Peak (June-August): It’s hot. It’s loud. It’s expensive. You’re looking at air temps in the high 80s and water that’s perfect for swimming.
- The Golfer’s Window (March-May): Comfortable 60s and 70s. You’ll see plenty of "snowbirds" from the North finally shedding their coats.
- The Local’s Favorite (September-October): The crowds vanish. The air drops to the mid-70s, but the water is still warm enough for a dip.
- The Quiet Zone (December-February): Expect highs in the 50s. Great for cheap hotel rates and zero wait times at restaurants, but leave the bikini at home.
The forecast for the next few days shows exactly how volatile a coastal winter can be. Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, we’re expecting a high of only 47°F with a 75% chance of rain. By Monday, it clears up to a sunny 49°F. It’s a roller coaster.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’re planning a trip, don't just look at the high temp. Check the UV Index—even on a cloudy day in Myrtle Beach, the reflection off the sand can fry you. Today it’s a low 0, but in July, it’s a brutal 10+.
For the best experience, aim for late May or early September. You get the warmth without the "I can't breathe" levels of humidity. If you're coming in the next week, pack layers. You'll want a jacket for the 34°F nights we have coming up on Monday and Tuesday, but you'll be peeling it off when the sun hits the boardwalk during the day.