Planning your Myrtle Beach holiday vacation and wondering what’s open in Myrtle Beach on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day? You're in luck. At Captain's Quarters Resort, you'll enjoy a prime location, easy access to the beach, and a short drive to several great dining spots, the Boardwalk, and attractions.
Whether you're looking for a traditional Christmas dinner, a relaxed holiday meal, or just want to pop out on Christmas Eve for something fun, we've got you covered. Below is a curated list of local restaurants and experiences open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Before you head out, be sure to check their website for any changes in opening hours.
Where To Eat On Christmas in Myrtle Beach
Finding the right place to dine during your Myrtle Beach holiday vacation is easier than you might think. Whether you want a full traditional Christmas dinner, something casual and close to the beach, or an elegant night out, plenty of restaurants open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are ready to welcome you.
From laid-back spots perfect for a Christmas beach picnic to classic steakhouse celebrations, here are the top restaurants open on both holidays along the Grand Strand.
Carolina Roadhouse
- 4617 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
- carolinaroadhouse.com
Carolina Roadhouse is open on Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and open on Christmas Day from 1 to 9 p.m. Guests can enjoy a holiday meal with turkey, ham, and their popular prime rib dinner, along with regular entrees. This one fills up quickly, so reservations are highly recommended.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
- 8211 Marina Pkwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
- ruthschris.net/myrtle-beach
Ruth's Chris Steak House welcomes Christmas visitors on Christmas Day from 1 to 10 p.m. Expect a polished holiday dinner with steak, seafood, and festive specials like prime rib and classic sides. Reservations are encouraged, especially if your family wants an early table.
Hard Rock Cafe
- 1318 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC
- cafe.hardrock.com/myrtle-beach
Hard Rock Cafe, located at Broadway at the Beach, is open on Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and opens at noon on Christmas Day. The restaurant serves its regular menu along with Christmas specials, giving you a lively place to dine if you want something fun and familiar. Walk-ins are usually fine, though holiday hours can vary.
Greg Norman Australian Grille
- 4930 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
- gregnormanaustraliangrille.com
Located in Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, Greg Norman's Australian Grille typically opens at 2 p.m. on Christmas Day. Expect upscale dinner options, seafood dishes, and holiday entrees in a warm waterfront setting. Reservations are usually needed for Christmas evening.
Croissants Bistro & Bakery
- 8014 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
- croissants.net
Croissants is open Christmas Eve day for brunch and often features a special menu with elegant seasonal dishes and dessert selections. It is a great choice if you want something warm and festive before your Christmas Day in Myrtle Beach.
New York Prime
- 405 28th Ave N, Myrtle Beach, SC
- newyorkprime.com
New York Prime is open Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 5 to 10 p.m. Expect a classic steakhouse holiday experience with premium cuts, seafood, and traditional sides. Reservations are a must.
Thoroughbreds Chophouse
- 9706 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
- thoroughbredsrestaurant.com/myrtle-beach-fine-dining/myrtle-beach/
Thoroughbreds is open Christmas Eve from 4:30 to 10 p.m. and Christmas Day from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Expect a refined holiday dinner with steak, lamb rack, and seafood. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Lombardo's Italian Restaurant
- 7604 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC
- lombardosmyrtlebeach.com
Typically open at 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Lombardo's serves Italian comfort dishes, seafood, and holiday specials in a warm setting. Reservations are suggested.
California Dreaming
- 2657 Beaver Run Blvd, Surfside Beach, SC
- californiadreaming.rest/location/Surfside-Beach-SC
California Dreaming is open Christmas Eve from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Christmas Day from 1 to 9 p.m. They offer a mix of holiday specials and regular menu favorites, from salads to hearty seafood and prime rib. It is a popular choice in Surfside Beach, so calling ahead is a smart idea.
Grocery Stores Open Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
If you want to pack snacks for the beach or need any last-minute holiday items, a few local grocery stores stay open with adjusted hours. Christmas Eve offers the most availability, while Christmas Day hours are limited, so plan ahead.
If guests need anything quickly, the front desk staff at Captain’s Quarters can point you in the right direction.
- Walmart Supercenter
Christmas Eve: Usually open until early evening
Christmas Day: Closed - Kroger
Christmas Eve: Typically open until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed - Food Lion
Christmas Eve: Most locations open until 6 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed - Publix
Christmas Eve: Open until 7 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed - CVS (select locations)
Christmas Eve: Regular hours
Christmas Day: Many locations open with reduced hours
Attractions Open Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
From indoor adventures to scenic strolls and holiday light displays, these attractions offer great options for families, couples, and anyone looking to make the most of their holiday at the beach. Below are the top spots open for the holidays, along with what to expect when you visit.
Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
- 1110 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
- ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-myrtle-beach
Ripley's Aquarium is open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's a great indoor pick for families, with holiday decorations and special displays that make your Christmas Day in Myrtle even more memorable. Advance tickets are helpful but not required.
WonderWorks Myrtle Beach
- 1313 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach, SC
- wonderworksonline.com/myrtle-beach
WonderWorks is open both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with adjusted holiday hours. This indoor attraction offers dozens of hands-on exhibits, perfect for families looking for active fun. Arriving earlier in the day gives you the most time to explore.
Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens
- 1931 Brookgreen Gardens Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC
- brookgreen.org
Brookgreen Gardens is open on Christmas Eve but closed on Christmas Day. It's an excellent pre-holiday stop, especially if you want to enjoy their stunning holiday lights and peaceful garden paths. Plan this one for December 24 to make the most of your holiday season schedule.
Do note that only on select days during the holidays are the lights shining brightly for the Nights of a Thousand Candles event. Double check their official calendar for exact dates and times. Tickets must be purchased and as this event is popular, we recommend buying them in advance online (purchases can be made via the same link as their calendar).
Myrtle Beach SkyWheel
- 1110 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC
- skywheelmb.com
The SkyWheel is open daily during the holidays except for Christmas Day, so Christmas Eve is your chance to enjoy an oceanfront view from above. Hours may shift slightly for the holiday, so consider visiting earlier in the day to ensure you catch a ride.
Book a Christmas Getaway in Myrtle Beach
Make your holiday escape feel effortless and festive with a stay at Captain's Quarters Resort, where the accommodations are designed for comfort, convenience, and those cozy coastal Christmas vibes.
Our oceanfront rooms and suites offer private balconies perfect for sipping hot cocoa while watching winter waves roll in, and many of our suites and efficiencies include kitchenettes or full kitchens—ideal for families wanting to cook a holiday breakfast together.
With indoor pools and plenty of on-site amenities, you can enjoy warm, weather-proof fun all season long. Plus, its central location keeps you close to Myrtle Beach's holiday shows, lights, and waterfront dining.
If you're planning a Christmas trip, Captain's Quarters Resort delivers the perfect blend of relaxation, beachfront magic, and family-friendly comfort.
