So, you’re looking at the weather forecast for Myrtle Beach South Carolina and wondering if you should pack a swimsuit or a parka. Honestly, January is a bit of a wildcard here. It’s the kind of month where you might wake up to frost on the dunes and be eating lunch in a t-shirt by 1:00 PM.
Most people assume "South Carolina" means "perpetual summer," but that's a mistake. Today, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, we're looking at a pretty classic winter day for the Grand Strand. It's sunny with a high of 54°F, which feels great if you're out of the wind, but the low is dropping down to 30°F tonight. That’s a 24-degree swing. You've gotta layer up.
What the week ahead actually looks like
If you’re planning your week, don't just look at the little sun icons on your phone. The air is crisp right now. Tomorrow, Wednesday, we’re seeing a high of 56°F but there’s a sneaky chance of rain moving in. It’s not a washout, just some passing showers that’ll make the boardwalk feel a bit moody.
By Thursday, the mercury takes a dip. We're looking at a high of only 47°F. That might sound "warm" if you're coming from Buffalo or Minneapolis, but with that Atlantic breeze? It bites.
Here is the quick breakdown of what to expect for the rest of the week:
- Friday, Jan 16: Bright sun, but chilly. High of 47°F, low of 36°F. Perfect for a brisk walk at Myrtle Beach State Park.
- Saturday, Jan 17: The rebound! We’re jumping up to 62°F. This is the day to hit the golf course or do some outdoor shopping at The Market Common.
- Sunday, Jan 18: Back down to 49°F. The clouds will be hanging around, so it’ll feel cooler than the number suggests.
Basically, the weather forecast for Myrtle Beach South Carolina this week is a yo-yo. One day you’re fine in a light fleece, the next you’re digging for the heavy wool socks you thought you wouldn't need.
The ocean is not your friend right now
I see people every year who think they’re going to take a "refreshing" dip in January. Don't do it. The ocean temperature is hovering around 51°F to 55°F. That is cold. Like, "take your breath away and turn your toes blue" cold. Unless you’re a local surfer in a 4/3mm wetsuit, stick to the heated indoor pools at the resorts.
Even walking on the sand can be surprisingly cold on your feet because the water keeps the shoreline chilled. Pro tip: Wear shoes on the beach if you’re heading out for sunset. The damp sand pulls the heat right out of you.
Why January is secretly the best time to visit
Is it "beach weather"? No. But it is "quiet weather."
The crowds are gone. You can actually get a table at Sea Captain’s House without a two-hour wait. The golf courses are wide open, and the rates are way lower than they’ll be in April. Plus, the light this time of year is incredible for photography. The sun sits lower in the sky, giving you those long, golden "magic hours" that make the piers look like something out of a movie.
Dealing with the "Carolina Chill"
When the sun goes down in Myrtle Beach in January, the humidity makes the cold feel different. It’s a "wet" cold. It creeps into your bones. If the forecast says 40°F, it feels like 32°F.
You'll want to pack:
- A windbreaker or light down jacket.
- Hoodies (essential for the boardwalk).
- Comfortable walking shoes (save the flip-flops for the hotel room).
- Sunglasses. The winter sun reflected off the ocean is blindingly bright.
Planning for the rain
The weather forecast for Myrtle Beach South Carolina often shows "showers," but they rarely last all day. If you do get rained out, head to Ripley’s Aquarium or the Hollywood Wax Museum. They’re climate-controlled and way less crowded than during the summer madness.
Honestly, the best thing to do is just embrace the "off-season" vibe. Take a horseback ride on the beach (which is only allowed in the winter months) or go bird-watching at Huntington Beach State Park. The crisp air keeps the bugs away, which is a massive win in the South.
👉 See also: Wait, Is St Paul’s Actually Saint Peter's Cathedral London? The Truth Behind the Name
Actionable steps for your trip
Check the local radar at the National Weather Service (Wilmington office) about two hours before you head out for any outdoor activities. Coastal weather moves fast, and a "sunny" forecast can turn into "sea fog" in twenty minutes.
If you're golfing, book your tee times for between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. That's your window for maximum warmth before the evening chill sets in. Finally, make sure your hotel or rental specifically mentions a heated pool or hot tub—you're going to want it after a day of exploring the Grand Strand in the 50s.