Sun, Sand, and Storm-Ready: What to Pack for Myrtle Beach
Hot boardwalk days and splash-filled beach mornings call for SPF 30+ reef-safe sunscreen, a broad-brim hat, quick-dry swimsuits, flip-flops and water sandals, a light poncho for pop-up storms, and one breezy outfit for seafood patios.
Updated on September 17, 2025
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Days in Myrtle Beach run from sandy mornings to long boardwalk walks and easy dinners by the water. You can’t pack for every scenario, and you don’t need to. Build a sun‑first capsule with quick‑dry layers, sand‑friendly shoes, and one smarter piece for evening, and you’re covered. Think comfort with polish.
Daywear stays casual and modest near the beach, with breezy cover‑ups, loose shirts, and easy shorts looking right on the boards and in arcades. After sunset the tone turns neat and relaxed, so button‑downs, loose dresses, or a crisp tee feel appropriate at seafood spots and bars. Keep colors simple and coastal.
Summer hits hard: 81–91°F days with heavy humidity, strong sun, and quick afternoon storms, while nights stay warm near 75°F along the water. Spring and fall hover around 59–77°F with cooler mornings and sudden showers. Winter is mild at 41–59°F but breezy on open piers. Carry a compact rain jacket.
The guide starts with beach essentials, then heat and humidity strategies, footwear that handles sand and the boardwalk, and the simple upgrades that carry you into casual nightlife. It closes with storm‑season smarts, what to skip, and practical notes for families, packing light, and navigating this car‑centric coast.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Essentials
Kids Clothing & Swim
Kids Footwear & Sand Gear
Kids Essentials & Safety
Myrtle Beach Day Bag Checklist
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
Myrtle Beach Weather: Sun, Storms & Mild Winters
Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate: hot, humid summers with daytime highs of 81–91°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms; mild winters near 41–59°F. Spring and fall are changeable with cool mornings and warm afternoons. Hurricane season (June–Nov) can bring sudden storms and travel disruptions; coastal marsh microclimates mean fog and variable breezes near piers and low-lying areas.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 55°F | 39°F |
| Feb | 57°F | 41°F |
| Mar | 63°F | 45°F |
| Apr | 70°F | 52°F |
| May | 77°F | 61°F |
| Jun | 84°F | 70°F |
| Jul | 88°F | 73°F |
| Aug | 88°F | 73°F |
| Sep | 84°F | 70°F |
| Oct | 77°F | 61°F |
| Nov | 66°F | 50°F |
| Dec | 57°F | 43°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring (Mar–May) varies 52–72°F: mornings can be 52–59°F, afternoons 64–72°F. Pack linen shirts, a light cardigan or windbreaker, quick-dry shorts or chinos, waterproof sandals, and a compact rain jacket for sudden showers.
summer
Summer (Jun–Aug) brings 81–91°F days, high humidity and frequent afternoon storms. Pack UV swimwear, a broad-brim hat, rashguard or linen tee, quick-dry shorts, water sandals, SPF 30+ reef-safe sunscreen and a packable rain shell.
fall
Fall (Sep–Nov) ranges 61–77°F: warm days early, nights cooling to 50–64°F. Pack layers — breathable long-sleeve tees, a light windbreaker or denim jacket, chinos or linen pants, sneakers for boardwalks, and a small umbrella.
winter
Winter (Dec–Feb) is mild, 41–59°F: cool mornings around 39–46°F and sunny afternoons near 54–59°F. Pack a medium jacket, sweater, a couple long-sleeve shirts, jeans or chinos, closed shoes, and a light waterproof shell for rainy days.
Myrtle Beach Style Compass
Myrtle Beach dressing balances relentless sun, soft sand and family-friendly ease. Embrace relaxed, breathable silhouettes—linen, lightweight cotton and quick-dry swim fabrics—paired with sand-resistant shoes. Pack sun protection, a light layer for cooler mornings and one neat evening outfit for seafood dinners or casual nightlife.
The Local Dress Code
Days are casual beachwear—swimsuits, cover-ups and tees are normal. Evenings call for smart-casual: modest cover-ups, light dresses or collared shirts. Respectful clothing is expected at religious sites and some restaurants; no topless norms and avoid overly revealing attire in family areas.
Sun-first, sand-ready style for family beach days and casual evenings: breathable linens, quick-dry swimwear, sand-friendly shoes and simple outfit upgrades for boardwalk strolls and low-key nightlife.
Style at a Glance
- • Relaxed, breathable silhouettes using linen and lightweight cotton
- • Pack 2–3 swimsuits plus quick-dry coverups for rotating and drying
- • Sand-first footwear: waterproof sandals and supportive sneakers
- • Sun protection: broad-brim hats, UV shirts and reef-safe SPF 30+
- • One slightly dressy smart-casual outfit for evening seafood dinners
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shop coastal essentials from local surf outfitters, handcrafted accessories and outlet finds. Prioritize quick-dry swim tech, sun hats, reef-safe sunscreen and sand-friendly footwear; many stores cluster by the boardwalk and Market Common.
Brands to Look For
Surfside Outfitters: Boardwalk staple for quick-dry swimwear, rash guards and beach accessories built for sand and salt; great for families and water-sport gear. ($$ - $$$)
Coastal Threads: Casual linen and lightweight cotton pieces—loose dresses, longline shirts and breathable layers that fit the relaxed silhouette direction. ($$ - $$$)
Pier & Palmetto: Local boutique with handcrafted jewelry, sun hats and small-batch beach accessories—perfect souvenirs and evening accents. ($ - $$)
Sand & Sea Footwear: Specializes in waterproof sandals, supportive boardwalk sneakers and travel-friendly flip-flops designed for sand and showers. ($ - $$)
Where to Shop
Boardwalk Shops: Beachwear, swim tech and rental gear next to the sand.
Market Common: Boutiques, casual dining outfits and locally made accessories.
Neighborhood Vibes
Boardwalk & Pier: Bright, practical beachwear dominates: moisture-wicking tees, swim tech layers and water-friendly sandals. Think sun hats, sunglasses and breathable layers for sudden storms or breezy evenings.
Broadway at the Beach & Market Common: Casual-meets-polished: lightweight linen dresses, chinos or neat shorts and comfortable flats or espadrilles for dinner and shopping. Easy layers for 15–20°C spring/fall nights.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Boardwalk Stroll — Morning walk on the boardwalk, arcade stops and coffee.
- • White linen button-up: Loose, breathable layer for 8–18°C mornings
- • Mid-rise chino shorts
- • Breathable supportive sneakers: Lightweight, good arch support for boardwalk walking
- • Wide-brim sunhat
Early Season Beach Kit — Cooler spring beach day with bowlable winds and quick dips.
summer
Peak Sun Beach Day — Full sun, swimming, and umbrella time—stay cool and protected.
Water Sports Ready — Paddle boarding or jet-skiing—secure, sun-safe and fast-drying.
fall
Mild Weather Golf Outing — Morning tee time with temperatures around 15–20°C and light breezes.
Outlet Shopping & Cafés — Casual afternoon browsing outlets and indoor attractions—easy layers for changing temperatures.
winter
Mild Coastal Walk — Cool but rarely freezing days around 5–15°C—layers and a wind-resistant outer layer work well.
Low-Key Evening Out — Dinner at a casual waterfront spot on a cooler night—neat but comfortable.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Pack supportive sneakers for boardwalks and sightseeing—choose breathable, lightweight pairs
- • Bring waterproof sandals for beach and waterfront use to resist sand and salt
- • Include comfortable flats or espadrilles as a neat evening option for casual dining
- • Flip-flops for pool, showers and quick beach steps—not for long walking
Accessory Guidelines
- • Wide-brim sunhat or cap and UV-blocking sunglasses for peak sun protection
- • Reef-safe SPF 30+ sunscreen plus a small after-sun lotion for skin recovery
- • Lightweight dry bag or waterproof phone case for beach days and boat trips
- • Packable rain poncho or thin rain jacket for sudden afternoon storms
- • Small crossbody or money belt to deter pickpockets on crowded boardwalks
What to Wear for Myrtle Beach Adventures
Beach Lounging & Sunbathing
Long sandy beaches mean sun-first packing — protect skin, manage sand, and plan for sudden storms when visiting Myrtle Beach.
Swimming & Water Sports
Jet-skiing, paddleboarding and open-water swimming are day staples — gear for salt, sun and quick changes.
Boardwalk Strolls & Family Arcades
Boardwalks and arcades are family-focused — dress for walking, sun and sticky-sweet treats.
Dolphin Watching & Fishing Charters
Boat trips are unforgettable but demand layers, safety prep and wildlife respect for the local coast.
Golf & Mini-Golf
From championship courses to family mini-golf, comfortable, modest attire and sun protection make play easy.
Seafood Dining & Casual Nightlife
Evenings are casual but tidy—pack one slightly dressy option and plan for warm nights with mosquito-prone spots.
Outlet & Souvenir Shopping
Outlets and souvenir shops are car-centric — plan for carrying purchases and walking between lots of stores.
Sunset Pier Walks & Photography
Piers offer iconic sunset shots — dress for wind, salt spray and dusk insects while being camera-ready.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Myrtle Beach
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Stiletto heels or thin high heels: Stilettos sink in soft sand and wobble on boardwalks; they're impractical for Myrtle Beach's sandy terrain and busy arcades. Pack supportive sneakers or waterproof sandals and one low block heel for casual nightlife.
- • Bulky winter coat: Bulky winter coats are unnecessary in Myrtle Beach, where winters hover near 5–15°C; they waste luggage space and often require checked bags. Choose a packable rain jacket, light insulated vest, or layered linen pieces instead.
- • Formal black-tie gowns: Black-tie gowns rarely fit Myrtle Beach's casual restaurant scene and take up weighty space. Bring one versatile sundress or a smart-casual outfit with nicer flats or espadrilles for seafood dinners and relaxed nightlife.
- • Heavy hiking boots and expedition gear: Packed mountaineering boots and excessive trekking gear are overkill: Myrtle Beach terrain is flat, sandy and marshy. Sand ruins heavy footwear; opt for supportive sneakers for boardwalks and waterproof sandals for beach access.
- • Non-reef-safe sunscreen: Non-reef-safe sunscreens can harm marine life along the coastline; avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate. Pack reef-safe mineral SPF 30+ sunscreen, a UV rash guard and a broad-brim hat to protect skin and local waters.
- • Excessive cameras, extra phones or bulky drones: Bringing multiple cameras, extra phones or bulky drones invites sand, salt damage and theft on crowded boardwalks. Instead limit to one compact camera or action cam, a waterproof phone case and a portable power bank.
- • Oversized beach umbrellas or giant canopies: Oversized beach umbrellas and giant shade canopies are bulky to travel with and often unnecessary since rental shops and lifeguard areas offer shade. Rent locally or pack a compact pop-up shelter and broad-brim hat.
- • Multiple heavy sweaters or bulky knitwear: Packing multiple heavy sweaters or bulky knitwear wastes space and gets damp in humid summers around 27–33°C. Swap for lightweight linen or moisture-wicking layers, a thin cardigan and one nicer top for evenings.
- • Glass beach bottles or fragile glassware: Glass beach bottles or fragile glassware risk breakage in sand and can injure feet; many beaches ban glass. Bring durable reusable stainless steel or BPA-free bottles, collapsible cups and a spill-proof water container instead.
Myrtle Beach Insider Packing Tips
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Pack reef-safe sunscreen: Bring SPF 30+ reef-safe sunscreen and after-sun gel—sun is intense with hot 27–33°C days and long shoreline exposure. Protect kids and reefs; reapply after swimming or towel-drying.
- • Lightweight quick-dry swimwear: Pack 2–3 quick-dry swimsuits and a cover-up for easy transitions from beach to boardwalk. Quick-dry fabrics cut sand cling and speed drying between activities—hand-wash and use hotel laundries.
- • Sand-friendly footwear mix: Bring waterproof sandals for the beach, supportive sneakers for boardwalks and lightweight espadrilles for casual dinners. Flip-flops are fine for pool and showers but not for long walks.
- • Rain-ready layers and poncho: Afternoon thunderstorms pop up in summer—pack a light packable rain jacket or poncho and a thin layer for cooler 15–20°C mornings in spring/fall. Keeps plans flexible and gear dry on boat trips.
- • Waterproof phone case & dry bag: A waterproof phone case and small dry bag protect devices and sunscreen from sand and salt on boat trips, pier walks and splashy rides. Keeps passports and cash safe during water activities.
- • Sun hat and UV-protective clothing: Wide-brim hats, UV shirts and sunglasses are lifesavers during hot 27–33°C afternoons. Use lightweight linen or moisture-wicking fabrics to avoid overheating while staying covered on long beach days.
- • Pack a small first-aid and meds kit: Include basics: bandaids, antihistamine, pain relief, electrolyte packets and motion-sickness pills for boat trips. Monitor lifeguard flags and treat minor jellyfish stings with vinegar if needed.
- • Plan for hurricane season: If visiting June–Nov, check forecasts and buy travel insurance. Pack a compact emergency kit, power bank and backups for medications—communication and flexible plans matter during sudden storm windows.
- • Evening casual upgrades: Pack one smart-casual outfit—light linen shirt or breezy dress and comfortable flats or espadrilles—for seafood dinner or casual nightlife. Beachwear is fine by day, many spots expect modest evening attire.
- • Bring a reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated in humid 27–33°C summers—carry a reusable insulated bottle and electrolyte mixes for kids. Water fountains and refill stations are common; avoid sugary drinks during sunny afternoons.
- • Car parking and valuables: Myrtle Beach is car-centric—plan for paid beach parking and peak-season congestion. Lock valuables out of sight, carry small bills for attendants and leave unnecessary items in hotel safes.
- • Protect camera and photography gear: Sand and salt ruin cameras—bring lens cloths, silica packs, and a padded camera bag or waterproof case. Shoot sunrise on piers for soft light; keep gear zipped when walking the dunes and marsh edges.
Myrtle Beach FAQs: Packing & Practical Tips
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What sun protection should I pack for Myrtle Beach?
Which shoes work best for sand, boardwalks and casual evenings?
How should I pack for sudden summer storms or hurricane windows?
Can I rely on laundries, rentals and shopping while I stay?
What should families with kids prioritize packing for Myrtle Beach?
Can I manage a carry-on only trip for a week in Myrtle Beach?
How do I keep electronics and valuables safe from sand and water?
Common packing mistakes and fixes — Myrtle Beach
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Skipping strong sun protection
Hot, humid days (27–33°C) bring intense UV and quick burns. Pack reef-safe SPF 30+ sunscreen, a broad-brim hat, UV-protective shirt and reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.
Packing heels or dress shoes for the sand
Heels and dress shoes sink in sand and damage on boardwalks. Swap for supportive sneakers for walking, waterproof sandals for the beach and comfortable flats or espadrilles for casual evening dining.
Bringing only swimsuits and no evening outfits
Only beachwear leaves you underdressed for family restaurants and casual nightlife. Pack a smart-casual outfit, modest cover-up for religious sites, and a light jacket for cooler evenings around 15–20°C.
Overlooking hurricane season and weather plans
Ignoring the June–Nov hurricane window risks cancelled plans. Pack a lightweight rain jacket, dry bag, and flexible reservations; enable weather alerts, carry travel insurance and a basic emergency kit for sudden storms.
Relying on public transit instead of arranging transport
Myrtle Beach is car-centric; assuming frequent transit leads to long waits. Reserve rental or ride-share, budget for beach parking fees, pack chargers and a power bank for long days and peak-season congestion.
Ready for Your Adventure
You're ready for sun-soaked days on Myrtle Beach's long, shallow sandy shores and lively boardwalks. Pack reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+), a broad-brim hat, and quick-dry swimwear for hot 27–33°C days; choose sand-friendly footwear plus supportive sneakers for boardwalk strolls; tuck a light packable rain jacket and waterproof phone case for sudden summer storms. Travel light, embrace local casual style, and enjoy every sunset with confidence.
