Reasons to visit Myrtle Beach this winter

Off-season crowds

^{Photo via Flickr/James Willamor}

Myrtle Beach is the place for summer lovin’ and having a blast, making it a popular destination during warmer months. In fact, many beach communities are shuttered during the winter. But where other travelers see a reason to postpone their trip, you see the best time to visit Myrtle Beach. Leaner crowds translate to shorter lines at attractions and an easier time securing restaurant reservations.

Fun at indoor water parks

^{Photo via Flickr/David Shankbone}

Stick one toe in the Atlantic Ocean in February, and you might go running back to shore as fast as Forest Gump. The sea is not made for frolicking this time of year. When you’re visiting Myrtle Beach in the winter, indoor water parks are the place to be. Even when the temperature dips, the lazy river at Captain’s Quarters Resort and the indoor water slides at Dunes Village Resort are open for business and the water is fine.

Relaxation at Brookgreen Gardens

^{Photo via Flickr/Britt Reints}

Trade the starched sand of the coast for the leafy topiary of Brookgreen Gardens. The trails are some of the best places to visit in Myrtle Beach all year-round, but winter brings a special kind of magic. Plants in bloom include daffodils, winter jasmine, and star magnolia trees. The soft light of winter twilight hours make the Lowcountry Trail and the Enchanted Storybrook Forest a delightful place to be.

The delicious Conway Chocolate Walk

In early February, a 15-mile drive west delivers you to Conway, SC and its namesake tour of local sweets. The Conway Chocolate Walk will lead you through the charming downtown district, where small businesses offer up fresh chocolate confections and woo you with their other fare.

Plenty of tee times

With smaller crowds this time of year, you can score that early tee time you want. One of the best Myrtle Beach winter activities is a round of golf at places like the Myrtlewood Golf Course and Whispering Pines Golf Course. Winter months have less daylight, but you can still fit in a round of 18 holes on the Grand Strand. Bonus: Off-season means tee times are often offered at a lower cost than during the summer.