Looking for all the fun and excitement of Myrtle Beach, but without the peak crowd and stress levels? Look no further than North Myrtle Beach, particularly in January. Wintertime on the Grand Strand is an extra special time to visit, with shorter wait times at restaurants and attractions, and mild enough weather for a walk along the beach. The best part? Reserve your stay at Ocean Drive Resort and enjoy ocean views from your own cozy private balcony, even on a chilly winter day!
In This Guide:
- January Weather
- January Events
- Hiking at Vereen Gardens
- Explore Cherry Grove Marsh
- Stroll Down Main Street
- Where to Eat
- Where to Shop
- Outdoor Activities
- Winter Fishing
- FAQs
January Weather in North Myrtle Beach
January brings cool but relatively comfy days, with highs in the mid-50s to low 60s. Evenings call for a jacket or plans indoors, as lows dip into the 40s and 30s. The Atlantic Ocean is a little too cold for swimming this time of year, so pack a sweater, vs. a swimsuit.
That said, the coastal views are just as gorgeous as any time of year, and there are fewer crowds to share them with, so don’t let the weather deter you from a visit. After all, is there anything quite like sipping a hot cup of coffee on your own private balcony overlooking the Grand Strand?
January Events in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach Winter Run
Lace up those tennies for a scenic race along the coastline! This annual event draws both pro runners and folks simply looking for an enjoyable walk. After the races, you’ll be treated to refreshments, a DJ party, and an awards ceremony.
- Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
- Location: Starts at Main Street, North Myrtle Beach
- Distances: 5K and 15K
- Registration Fee: $50–70
Elvis Festival
Celebrate “the King” with this three-day festival, featuring Elvis tribute artists on stage in amazing performances. Not a diehard Elvis Presley fan? Not a problem. This is still a super fun and original way to spend a few hours with the family.
- Dates: January 29–31, 2026
- Location: Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre
- Highlights: Multiple themed shows during the day and evening
- Tickets: Prices range based on seating
Family Tip: Check out Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach to keep your whole group entertained. Stroll through shops, grab a bite at restaurants, and visit attractions like Alligator Adventure while getting some steps in.
Grand Strand Boat Show & Sportsman Expo
Calling all boating enthusiasts and anglers! Browse the latest boat models, gear, and outdoor equipment while learning tips from experts at this annual event kicking off the boating season.
- Dates: January 9–11, 2026
- Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center
- Features: All-day boating and fishing seminars, as well as exhibits and family-friendly activities
- Admission: Adult admission is $10, child admission is $5, and children under 3 are free
Winter Bump Volleyball Classic
If you’re a sports fan, watch top volleyball teams compete at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
- Dates: January 17–19, 2026
- Location: Myrtle Beach Convention Center (2101 N Oak St, Myrtle Beach)
- Admission: Spectator passes are limited to family members
- Details: National and regional competition for junior volleyball teams
Go for a Hike at the Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens
North Myrtle Beach isn’t lacking in natural beauty, but you’ll still be rewarded with more amazing views by going a little off the beaten beach path. The Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens boasts three miles of wooden boardwalks and hiking trails that wind through must-see marshlands, where you can spot interesting wildlife, including birds, like the great blue heron and bald eagle. Located in Little River, the gardens are open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free, making it a no-brainer for nature lovers.
Explore Cherry Grove Marsh
While a January swim in North Myrtle Beach might be off the table, don’t skip the ocean. Cherry Grove Beach offers up picturesque marshlands that are worth seeing year-round, along with a convenient boardwalk and observation areas perfect for birdwatching and getting those amazing, Instagram-worthy photos. Located along North Ocean Boulevard, this spot is free to explore and best enjoyed in the early morning for a chance to spot the most wildlife!
Take a Stroll Down Main Street
You can kill lots of time exploring Main Street in North Myrtle Beach. During the day, hop in and out of unique boutiques for beach-themed décor and souvenirs, try local foods, or treat yourself to a sweet snack. When the sun goes down, Main Street takes on a whole new, exciting, nighttime vibe. Hit up legendary venues like Fat Harold’s Beach Club and Duck’s Beach Club for live music and dancing.
Fun fact: Ocean Drive is where Myrtle Beach’s famous “beach music” started, including the Carolina Shag dance.
Where to Eat
One of the best things about visiting North Myrtle Beach in January is skipping the wait when hunger hits. The top restaurants in North Myrtle Beach are all open, but they aren’t nearly as crowded as during the summer months. Here are a few spots that will have your mouth watering:
- Snooky’s Oceanfront: It’s hard to beat fresh seafood and ocean air. Enjoy views of the water along with tasty signature dishes like “shrimp and grits!”
- Hoskins Restaurant: If you’re on Main Street, have breakfast, lunch, or dinner at this family-owned favorite, featuring seafood and steak.
- Barefoot Landing: Several great dining options are located here, including Flying Fish, serving up crowd-pleasing seafood and sushi dishes, along with views of the water.
Heads up! Restaurant Week is scheduled for January 8th to the 18th. This is a great time to visit, as you can enjoy loads of top-rated restaurants serving up special, creative menus, as well as showing off their best dishes.
Where to Shop
After all that holiday gift shopping, take the time to shop for yourself in the New Year. Browse top, national brands at Tanger Outlets, and hunt down more unique beach souvenirs, sweets and snacks, fashions, and more in shopping districts like Barefoot Landing and Main Street. Looking for a good deal? Check out the Everything Under the Sun and the North Myrtle Beach flea markets for used jewelry, furniture, and more.
Things to Do Outside
Cooler weather doesn’t mean you have to stay inside on your vacation. It actually means the opposite! Wintertime is a great time to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Grand Strand without feeling uncomfortably hot. And there are way more activities to do than just swimming, like horseback riding at the Inlet Point Plantation, birdwatching at Heritage Shores Nature Preserve, and playing golf at one of the area’s many courses, like the Tidewater Golf Club and Azalea Sands Golf Club.
Plus, you can still get out on the ocean this time of year. Take a kayaking trip or join a local fishing charter, and you’ll feel connected to the ocean, even on a brisk day.
Winter Fishing in North Myrtle Beach
The Grand Strand is an angler’s paradise all year long, and January really delivers. Cast off at the Cherry Grove Pier or Hog Inlet, or hop on a guided local charter like Captain Smiley Fishing Charters. Expect to catch fish like Redfish, Whiting (or Gulf Kingfish), Black Drum, and Sheepshead.
Book Your Dream North Myrtle Beach Vacation
Our oceanfront resort location puts you at the heart of North Myrtle Beach, with easy access to top events, dining, and those to-die-for ocean views. Look forward to comfortable rooms, friendly service, and relaxing, luxurious amenities, like private balconies and direct beach access. You won’t forget your stay at the Ocean Drive Resort, whether you’re here for a quiet post-holiday escape or an action-packed outdoor adventure!
Book direct with Ocean Drive Resort to make your North Myrtle Beach resort stay unforgettable.
FAQs for January Visitors
Can you swim?
January is not the best time to jump into the Atlantic (brr!), but Ocean Drive Resort’s heated indoor pool is open all year, bringing new meaning to “chill poolside.”
Are attractions open?
Most restaurants, shops, and activities are open in January, though some may have special holiday or winter hours, so check ahead of time before venturing out.
Is it family-friendly?
North Myrtle Beach is very family-friendly! Fill your days with seashell collecting and souvenir shopping, and fill up on delicious seafood.
What should I pack?
Layers! Hoodies, long sleeves, light jackets, and sweaters—because January days can go from mild to chilly fast. Closed-toe shoes are also recommended if you want to explore the area’s hiking trails. And even if swimming isn’t on your list, bring beach gear and sunscreen so you can still comfortably relax and take in the coastline.