What to pack for fall and winter in Myrtle Beach

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Myrtle Beach is known for its year-round mild climate. While beach season is at its peak in the hot summer months, don't discount the fall and winter as a lovely time of year to visit. We'll help you put together a packing list to make sure you get the most of your trip.

Layers

Fall and winter daytime temperatures in the Myrtle Beach area average in the high 50s to the low 70s. That means you'll be most comfortable if you have a light jacket or sweater with you, but you'll want to be able to take it off during warmer spells. Bring layers so you can be comfortable regardless of the weather. Natural fibers, such as cotton, may be a better choice than synthetics when you are dressing in layers.

Nights in Myrtle Beach can get a little bit chilly in the winter, with average lows in the high 30s and low 40s. If you are planning to be out at night, be sure you have a jacket that's warm enough. Again, layers are going to be your friend.

Myrtle Beach sees the most precipitation during the humid summer months, but rain is not unheard of during the winter. If your jacket is water-resistant, you might be a little more comfortable if you get caught in a rainstorm.

Beach gear

Just because it's fall or winter doesn't mean you won't get in some beach time!

Pack sunscreen. Myrtle Beach is sunny most of the year, and cooler temperatures might trick you into thinking you won't need protection from the sun. The truth is, sun damage can occur at any temperature, so be sure to have sunscreen on hand.

Beachcombing is GREAT in the fall and winter. Bring good walking shoes for the beach (although going barefoot on the soft sand is always an option), and bring a small bag to collect beach treasures, such as seashells. A mesh bag will let sand filter out so you don't bring it back to the hotel with you.

Footwear

Summer may tempt you to wear nothing but sandals all week, but Myrtle Beach in the fall and winter may suggest sturdier footwear. While the beach is always open, fall and winter visitors to Myrtle Beach often seek out other area attractions and activities, such as nearby botanical gardens, shopping destinations, indoor attractions, wildlife parks, cultural sites and more. That means there may be plenty of walking involved. You'll want comfortable shoes that will see you through a full day of fun and activities.

But you know what? It's always flip-flop season at the beach, so throw in a pair of those as well.

Golf clubs

Golf is extremely popular in the Myrtle Beach area in the fall and winter, and with dozens of top-notch courses to choose from, the golfer in your life will not want to miss the opportunity to get out on the links. You can check your clubs as baggage when you fly — be sure they are tagged with a luggage tag that includes your name and cell phone number — or toss them in the trunk if you are driving.

Your enthusiasm

Fall and winter are terrific seasons for vacationing in South Carolina. Many beach communities close up shop in the winter, but the fun keeps rolling in Myrtle Beach, which is why it's one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast.  You'll want to bring plenty of energy for enjoying all that the area has to offer (and the good news is, the crowds do thin a bit in the fall and winter, so you'll have a little more space to enjoy your vacation).

 

(Posted: 10/14/2014)

(Photo Courtesy: myrtlebeach.com)