If you’re looking to get away for a long weekend with the family or enjoy the vacation you didn’t have time for during the summer, North Myrtle Beach is an excellent fall destination. Because this time of year is considered off-peak (though we like to think we’re always at our peak), there are lots of deals at family-friendly hotels and resorts, making us a great spot for an affordable fall family vacation. It’s still warm enough to enjoy our beach lifestyle, the restaurants are open, and there are plenty of seasonal activities to keep the whole family entertained during your trip.

Beach Adventures and Outdoor Fun

While many people are layering up throughout much of the country this time of year, that’s not the case in NMB, where summer attire and activities last a little longer. Here, the weather is just right. You can wear shorts in the afternoon and a light jacket in the evening, enjoying warm temperatures during the day and getting a taste of the crisp autumn air when the sun goes down.

To make the most of the lingering summer weather, spend a morning playing a late-season round at any of our award-winning golf courses or take the whole family to a local mini-golf course. Go dolphin watching, fishing or both at the Cherry Grove Pier. 

And, of course, there are the beaches. Our nine miles of sprawling beaches along the Grand Strand are waiting for you to go swimming, relax and catch some rays. You’ll also find access to watersports like parasailing, surfing and paddleboarding. Starting on Labor Day, pets are also welcome on the beach all day long, but be sure you keep them on a leash. If you get peckish, there are restaurants and bars just steps from the sand. Return home with wonderful memories and a great tan. Your co-workers will be jealous every time they see you.

Fall Festivals and Halloween Events

The annual Irish Italian International Festival brings people together to celebrate Irish-American and Italian-American heritage through delicious food, lively music and family-friendly entertainment. This one-day event in September fills Main Street with the aromas of traditional dishes, the sounds of live performances and the joy of sharing two rich cultures in one unforgettable fall celebration.

At the NMB Lights by the Sea Drone Light Show, you’ll experience a magical autumn evening beginning with a free concert at The Horseshoe on Main Street, followed by a stunning drone light display that illuminates the night sky. Bring your chairs, settle in and get ready for a show you won’t forget.

The highlight of fall is Halloween, and NMB delivers some scary good events for kids and adults each October. In addition to family-friendly movie nights, hayrides, costume contests and all sorts of Halloween parties, the bravest of thrill seekers can enjoy terrifying attractions like Ripley’s Haunted Adventures and Hollywood Wax Museum’s Outbreak - Dread the Undead. You can also go looking for ghosts and check out supposedly haunted spots.

There’s also plenty of fun for kids and pups. Each Halloween, Barefoot Landing transforms for BooFest! This fun event features a costume contest for boys and ghouls and your little dog, too. Later that night, pull up a chair on the lawn and bring a blanket for a viewing of everyone’s famous spooky sisters in Hocus Pocus.

And don’t miss Halloween BOOnanza! The North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex transforms into a festive Halloween wonderland packed with magic shows, marshmallow roasting, games, inflatables and trick‑or‑treating for all ages. Bring your costumes, your sense of fun and your appetite for candy!

Thanksgiving Weekend and Christmas Events

North Myrtle Beach is also a great place to kick off the holiday season. On Thanksgiving weekend, attend the Intracoastal Christmas Regatta, a maritime parade of boats lit and decorated for the holidays. Between November and December, drive through two miles of holiday lights and displays at the Great Christmas Light Show, and then stop by Santa’s Village for sweets, photo ops, Christmas shows and a petting zoo. If you’d like to purchase some holiday decorations to remember your fall trip, visit Christmas Mouse located at Barefoot Landing.

Places to Stay with Kids

With fall considered off-season, many lodging options are more affordable than during the summer. Several offer discounted rates that put your fall family getaway within reach. While hotels offer convenience and comfort, beach resorts also boast amenities like stunning views, pools, waterparks and on-site dining. If you’re staying a bit longer, consider renting a private beach home or condo so you have your own kitchen plus plenty of space for the whole family.

Family Dining Options

There’s drama on the high seas at Pirates Voyage. This dinner show stars the infamous Blackbeard battling his enemies by land and by sea. It also features beautiful birds, mermaids and more fun characters. The entire dinner is delicious, but the Buccaneer Bread is a must-try!

The evening sea breeze offers a hint that cooler days are coming. What better way to transition into fall than with dinner at a waterfront restaurant? NMB sits on the Atlantic Ocean, so you know the fall catch is going to be amazing. Our seafood restaurants serve a wide range of delicacies, from coconut shrimp to a traditional broil that’s been made by generations of South Carolinians. For a seasonal brew, visit our sports bars or local brewpubs.

Be sure to leave room for dessert! Treat the whole family to an ice cream cone, milkshake, donut or other sweet treat. NMB is home to both inventive local shops like Crazy Mason, Melt and No No Nuts Ice Cream, an allergy free ice cream shop!

Places to Watch Sports This Fall

It may feel like summertime in North Myrtle Beach, but fall brings NFL and college football (Go Chants!) and the major league baseball playoffs. Catch each game at one of our many sports bars, which combine delicious food, ice-cold drinks and a lively atmosphere to cheer on your team.

Want to pair the game with a competition of your own? Head to 810 Entertainment, where you can enjoy family-friendly eats and then bowl or play billiards, darts or ping pong while the game plays in the background.

Tips for Planning Your Fall Trip

We’re here to help you plan your affordable fall family vacation to North Myrtle Beach! Our visitors guide includes information on events, attractions, accommodations and more. Whether you’re joining us in September, October or November, NMB has plenty for the whole family to taste, do and explore to create unforgettable memories during your fall family getaway.