How to Spend Christmas in Myrtle Beach

Celebrate Christmas on the beach — Myrtle Beach, specifically. Or, if you want to be home for the holidays, still swing by South Carolina for a quick getaway filled with holiday fun between now and Christmas. The destination has plenty of celebratory activities on tap.

Through Jan. 5, catch Ripley’s Aquarium Festival of Trees, featuring more than 50 trees decorated in themes reflecting the 50 U.S. states and territories.

Head to Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for a free, mile-long, oceanfront lights display, part of the Winter Wonderland at The Beach event. Check the event’s calendar for extra fun occurring throughout the month on select dates, such as holiday drone shows.

For a light display you can drive through, try The Great Christmas Light Show at North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex. With more than 2 million lights, the 2-mile drive is open through Dec. 30.

For holiday lights with a twist, experience Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens, where lights blend with nearly 3,000 lit candles. The event runs on select dates through Jan. 5.

“The holidays in Myrtle Beach are truly special with the perfect blend of festive cheer and warm Southern hospitality,” commented Stuart Butler, CMO, Visit Myrtle Beach. “Discover the Grand Strand’s unique holiday charm — from dazzling light displays, lively events and vibrant parades, to peaceful beach strolls, incredible shopping and memorable dining experiences.”