You’ve seen the postcards. Those glossy images of sun-drenched beaches and people in bikinis might lead you to believe that the Grand Strand is a tropical paradise year-round. Honestly, if you show up in January expecting to tan on the sand, you’re in for a cold, windy surprise.
It’s actually quite chilly right now.
As of today, January 16, 2026, the current temperature in Myrtle Beach is sitting at a crisp 31°F. With the wind coming out of the west at 9 mph, it actually feels more like 23°F. This isn't exactly "beach weather" for the average person. But the thing about a beach town in the winter is that the vibe changes completely. It’s quiet. It’s affordable. And if you know how to read the extended forecast for Myrtle Beach SC, you can still have a killer time without the crowds.
Understanding the January temperature swing
If you look at the next few days, the weather is basically a rollercoaster. Today, Friday, we’re looking at a high of 46°F and a low of 30°F. It’s going to be sunny, which is great, but don't let the blue skies fool you. The wind is kicking up to 13 mph from the southwest.
Then things get weird.
Tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, the temperature jumps up to 61°F. That’s a 15-degree swing in 24 hours! It’ll be cloudy, but those warmer temperatures are a total tease because they’re usually a precursor to rain. Sure enough, Sunday brings a 75% chance of rain with a high dropping back down to 47°F.
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People always ask, "Is it worth going to Myrtle Beach in the winter?"
The answer depends on whether you like the ocean for the swimming or the soul-cleansing view. The sea temperature right now is roughly 51°F, which is basically liquid ice. You won't see locals in the water unless they're wearing a thick 4/3mm wetsuit with booties and a hood. If you want to swim, you’d better make sure your hotel has a heated indoor pool or a Jacuzzi suite.
The 10-day outlook and what to pack
Looking further into next week, the extended forecast for Myrtle Beach SC shows a lot of "mostly sunny" days, but the mercury isn't going to climb very high.
- Monday (Jan 19): High of 48°F, low of 33°F. Sunny skies, but breezy.
- Tuesday (Jan 20): This is the coldest day on the horizon with a high of only 40°F.
- Wednesday & Thursday (Jan 21-22): Things start to moderate slightly, creeping back into the 50s.
By the time we hit the following weekend, specifically Sunday, January 25, there’s another big weather system moving through. We're talking about a 75% chance of rain and even a mention of snow in the night-time forecast for some areas, though in Myrtle Beach it usually just stays a cold, miserable drizzle.
Basically, you need layers.
I’m talking a light down jacket, long pants, and maybe a beanie if you're walking the boardwalk. The wind off the Atlantic hits different when it’s 40 degrees. It cuts right through a cheap hoodie.
Why the "off-season" is actually a secret win
Despite the chill, there's a reason "snowbirds" flock here. According to data from Visit Myrtle Beach, January and February are some of the cheapest months to snag a luxury condo. You can often find oceanfront rentals for a fraction of their July prices.
Places like Brookgreen Gardens are arguably more beautiful when they're not sweltering at 95 degrees. You can walk the sculpture gardens without breaking a sweat, and the winter light makes for some incredible photography. Plus, the restaurant scene is way more relaxed. You can actually get a table at the popular seafood spots without a two-hour wait.
Practical next steps for your trip
If you’re planning to head down within the next two weeks, here is your game plan based on the latest data:
1. Check the flight status.
The AccuWeather travel outlook for the region is currently rated as "Fair" to "Poor" due to the wind and potential for freezing temperatures. If you're flying into MYR, keep an eye on your airline's app, especially on Sunday the 18th and the following Sunday the 25th when rain is most likely.
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2. Focus on indoor entertainment.
Since the beach is mostly for walking right now, pivot your itinerary. The Hollywood Wax Museum, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the various theater shows like The Carolina Opry are all climate-controlled and running full schedules.
3. Watch the wind direction.
If the forecast says the wind is coming from the North or Northwest, the boardwalk will be significantly colder than the street-side shops. Use the buildings as a windbreak.
4. Book for the weekend of the 23rd if you want "warmth."
The extended trend shows a slight warming trend toward January 23rd with highs reaching 56°F. It’s not tropical, but it’s a lot better than the 40-degree days we’re seeing early next week.
The beach doesn't disappear just because it's cold. It just gets quieter. Pack a heavy sweater, grab a coffee at a local shop, and enjoy having the sand to yourself.