Sandbar parties, jet ski rides, and riverboat cruises, this summer is calling, and your boat’s on line one.
If your ideal summer includes the phrase “let’s take the boat out,” then you’re in the right place. From late April through October, boating season transforms the Grand Strand into a floating paradise, complete with dolphin sightings, al fresco cocktails, and the occasional impromptu dance party on the water. Whether you’re renting a pontoon or captaining your own, here’s everything you need to know to cruise through Myrtle Beach’s boat season like a pro.
Weather Watch: What to Expect
Summer in Myrtle Beach is still serving that humid-with-a-side-of-wow vibe. Temps are hanging in the upper 80s to low 90s, and yes—afternoon storms are still popping off like beach fireworks. But early mornings? Still golden. Cool, quiet, and perfect for a stroll before the sky starts showing off.
Here’s what’s ahead:
- Thursday: High of 87°F, expect some dramatic skies and afternoon storms.
- Friday–Saturday: Sunny, sticky, and full-on summer mode.
- Sunday: Breezy and partly sunny with a high of 84°F—basically ideal.
- Monday–Tuesday: Could start with light showers, but the heat’s coming back strong by lunch.
Rule of thumb: get on the water by 10 a.m., and plan your exit before Mother Nature says, “plot twist.”
When’s the Season, Really?
Boating season officially stretches from late April through late October, with water temps floating comfortably in the 70s and 80s. That said, June through August is peak time—expect crowds, parties, and major tan lines.
Pro tip: Fall (September–November) might just be the best-kept secret. The water’s still warm, the air’s less sweaty, and your selfies won’t include 47 strangers in the background.
Boat Life Traditions
Boating in Myrtle Beach isn’t just a pastime, it’s a vibe. Here’s what the locals are up to:
- MarshWalk Tie-Ups: Cruise into Murrells Inlet, dock at your favorite restaurant, and grab a drink before floating back out during golden hour. It’s like bar hopping, but the Uber is your boat.
- Sandbar Saturdays: Head to Bird Island or Hog Inlet, anchor up, blast the playlist, and get ready for shin-deep dancing in the water. Flip-flops optional. Floats mandatory.
- Float Fridays & Sunday Fundays: Think of these as floating tailgates. Bring your best snack spread and a float shaped like anything but a float (unicorn, pizza slice, inflatable yacht—whatever speaks to you).
- Salute from the Shore (July 4): Expect patriotic boat parades, beach flyovers, and a full coastal vibe.
Where to Boat
Here’s your unofficial itinerary:
- Murrells Inlet: Paddleboard by day, dine dockside by night. It’s also home to dolphin cruises and the famed MarshWalk.
- Intracoastal Waterway: Calm, scenic, and ideal for newbies or anyone not looking to compete with the Atlantic’s mood swings.
- Little River: Up near the NC border, this is your gateway to deep-sea fishing or a more laid-back boat launch.
- Waccamaw River: Cypress trees, Spanish moss, and blackwater tranquility. It’s a quiet flex.
Rentals, Passes, and Cruises
Myrtle Beach Watersports has the hookup for boat, jet ski, and tritoon rentals—with season passes available. A few notes:
- Reserve at least 48 hours in advance
- Fuel’s not included, so factor that into your budget
- Blackout dates: big holidays like July 4–6
Want someone else to do the steering? Try:
- Barefoot Queen Riverboat Cruises – These run themed sunset dinner cruises along the Intracoastal. Yes, there’s dancing.
- Party Cruises – Especially popular in summer. Think rooftop party vibes, but floating.
Wildlife Watch
- Spring: Spot dolphins chasing shrimp boats and nesting sea turtles
- Summer: Flying fish, jellyfish, and the occasional stingray sighting
- Fall: Cooler waters bring in redfish, flounder, and migratory birds
- Winter: Fewer crowds and birdwatching perfection from the water
