Fun things to do on the Grand Strand this winter

December is anything but dormant in Myrtle Beach.

Sure, it’s not peak tourist season. But plenty of people still work Myrtle Beach into their travel dreams – if not travel plans. With an agreeable climate and environment of entertainment open all year, there’s lots to do on the Grand Strand for a December visit.

Looking for fun this December in your favorite vacation destination?

This is the post for you. We’re suggesting 10 fun things to do in Myrtle Beach – no matter what the weather. In fact, they might be better for a winter getaway, anyway. Some are specific to the season, which makes it clear: You should plan a coastal escape this December!

Balcony View

A brief history of the Grand Strand

Ghosts, indigenous tribes, pirates, and more. They make up the lore of this storied region, a 60-mile expanse of beaches on the Carolina coast. From Little River to Georgetown, S.C., it includes Garden City, Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and more. Most of The Grand Stand is open and ready for visitors this December.

Top things to do this December on the Grand Strand

Complimentary carriage rides, the Market Common

3-6 p.m., Sundays

Take in your favorite Myrtle Beach shopping center from a leisurely carriage ride.

Rides will pick up and drop off in front of Dolce Lusso Salon, at the intersection of Howard Avenue and Nevers Street. See the beautiful grounds at The Market Common, weather permitting. Find updates on Facebook (@TheMarketCommon.)

Social distancing in line and masks are required. Rides are limited to the same family or party. Adherence to the recommended COVID-19 protocol might delay portions of the ride.

Night of a Thousand Candles, Brookgreen Gardens

4-9 p.m., see dates on the Brookgreen Garden website

A favorite Grand Strand attraction gets lit up with the soft glow of more than 2,800 hand-lit candles and lots of sparkling lights. Walk garden paths while you enjoy cider, cocoa, or wine. Carolers will serenade guests in a celebration of the season.

Brookgreen has added 12 nights for crowd control, safety, and social distancing. Tickets are limited. Tickets: Members – adults ($20) and children ($12). Non-members – adults ($25) and children ($15). Buy tickets here.

Holiday breakfast with Santa, Ripley’s Aquarium

Dec. 19, 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

The aquarium is filled with holiday cheer this time of year. This festive breakfast with Santa is contactless, and you can write your favorite elf a wish list to carry to St. Nick himself. Masks and social distancing are required to continue this favorite holiday event

Tickets include:

  • Aquarium admission
  • Breakfast buffet
  • 4×6 photo with Santa
  • Fun holiday craft

Adult tickets, for ages 12 and older, are $35. Child tickets, ages 3-11, are $20. Prices are before taxes. See website for details.

Fun Warehouse New Year’s Eve

Dec. 31, Family-friendly late night 5 p.m. 1 a.m.; Party all night 5 p.m.-7 a.m.

Don’t miss the New Year’s Eve Extravaganza at Fun Warehouse in Myrtle Beach. The family-friendly late-night event is $30 per person. It includes:

  • One go-kart race
  • One game of laser tag
  • Skating
  • Inflatables

The party-all-night package is $48 per person. It includes:

  • Two go-kart races
  • Unlimited laser tag
  • Skating
  • One virtual-reality game
  • Unlimited mini bowling
  • One slice of pizza
  • One small drink
  • Morning doughnuts 

See the schedule online.

Christmas movie trivia at Tin Roof

Dec. 17, 7 p.m.

Memorizing Home Alone line by line could pay off. Crank up the Christmas movies now to shore up for this event. Cheatsheet: There’ll be questions from these classics and possibly more:

  • A Christmas Story
  • Elf
  • Home Alone
  • How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Get the team together for group research! Open for parties of 2-6. Reservations required. Visit the website to get in on the fun.

Merry and Musical Christmas Tree, Broadway at the Beach

Every 30 minutes, 4 p.m. close, daily through Dec. 31

The Christmas tree at Broadway at the Beach comes alive with a light show and synchronized music for all to enjoy. Wrap up some holiday shopping and take in the festive atmosphere.

Come stay at Paradise Resort this December

Now, you can get 25% off accommodations at Paradise Resort in Myrtle Beach. The sale is good for a stay through Dec. 31, 2021. You’ll also save tons on attractions tickets through Brittain Rewards. There are no blackout dates, but the minimum length of stay and other restrictions apply. Explore room options and make your reservations today for Paradise Resort.