How Far Is Florida from Myrtle Beach? Travel & Stay Guide
Discover the distance from Florida to Myrtle Beach, travel tips, routes, and stay options for your perfect trip.
Introduction
Planning a trip from Florida to Myrtle Beach? You might be wondering how far the two destinations are and what travel options you have. Whether you want to drive, fly, or take a bus, knowing the distance and travel time helps you plan better.
In this article, we will explore the distance between Florida and Myrtle Beach, the best routes to take, travel tips, and where to stay once you arrive. Let’s make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
How Far Is Florida from Myrtle Beach?
The distance between Florida and Myrtle Beach depends on where in Florida you start. Florida is a large state, so distances vary a lot.
Here are some approximate distances from popular Florida cities to Myrtle Beach by road:
Miami to Myrtle Beach: about 700 miles (1,126 km)
Orlando to Myrtle Beach: about 520 miles (837 km)
Tampa to Myrtle Beach: about 600 miles (965 km)
Jacksonville to Myrtle Beach: about 350 miles (563 km)
These distances translate to driving times ranging from about 6 to 12 hours, depending on your starting point and traffic.
Best Travel Routes from Florida to Myrtle Beach
Driving is a popular way to travel from Florida to Myrtle Beach, especially if you want to explore along the way. Here are some common routes:
From Miami: Take I-95 North through Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. This is the fastest and most direct route.
From Orlando: Use I-95 North or I-75 North to connect with I-95. Both routes lead you to Myrtle Beach.
From Tampa: Take I-75 North to I-10 East, then connect to I-95 North toward Myrtle Beach.
From Jacksonville: Take I-95 North straight to Myrtle Beach. This is the shortest drive.
These highways are well-maintained and offer plenty of stops for food, gas, and rest.
Flying from Florida to Myrtle Beach
If you prefer to fly, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) serves the area with several direct and connecting flights.
Here’s what to know about flying:
Major Florida airports with flights to Myrtle Beach include Miami International Airport (MIA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Tampa International Airport (TPA), and Jacksonville International Airport (JAX).
Flight times range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your departure city and connections.
Airlines like American, Delta, and Spirit offer regular service.
Booking in advance can help you find better prices.
Flying is faster but can be more expensive than driving, especially if you have family or lots of luggage.
Other Travel Options: Bus and Train
For budget travelers, buses and trains are alternatives to consider.
Bus: Greyhound and Megabus operate routes between Florida cities and Myrtle Beach. The trip can take 12 hours or more, depending on stops.
Train: Amtrak does not have a direct train to Myrtle Beach. The closest station is in Florence, SC, about 60 miles away. You would need a car or shuttle from there.
These options are affordable but take longer and may require transfers.
Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive, Myrtle Beach offers many places to stay, from budget hotels to beachfront resorts.
Here are some popular hotel options:
Oceanfront Resorts: Marriott's OceanWatch Villas and Dunes Village Resort offer beachfront views and family-friendly amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels: Hampton Inn & Suites Myrtle Beach Oceanfront and Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach provide comfort and good locations.
Budget Stays: La Quinta Inn & Suites and Days Inn by Wyndham offer affordable rooms with basic comforts.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer and spring break.
Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is famous for its sandy beaches, golf courses, and family attractions.
Top activities include:
Relaxing on the 60-mile stretch of sandy beaches.
Playing golf at world-class courses like Tidewater Golf Club.
Visiting Broadway at the Beach for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Exploring Ripley's Aquarium or the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.
Enjoying water sports like jet skiing, fishing, and parasailing.
These activities make Myrtle Beach a fun destination for all ages.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
To make your trip from Florida to Myrtle Beach easy and enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:
Check traffic and weather conditions before you leave, especially if driving.
Book flights and hotels early to get the best rates.
Plan rest stops if driving long distances.
Bring sunscreen and beach gear for Myrtle Beach’s sunny weather.
Consider travel insurance for peace of mind.
Conclusion
Traveling from Florida to Myrtle Beach is straightforward whether you drive, fly, or take a bus. The distance varies depending on your starting city, but you can expect a trip of several hours by road or a short flight.
Myrtle Beach offers plenty of hotels and fun activities to enjoy once you arrive. With good planning, your trip can be relaxing and full of great memories.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Florida to Myrtle Beach?
Driving time depends on your starting city. From Miami, it takes about 11 to 12 hours. From Jacksonville, it’s closer to 6 hours. Traffic and stops can affect your total time.
Are there direct flights from Florida to Myrtle Beach?
Yes, some Florida airports like Orlando and Miami offer direct or connecting flights to Myrtle Beach International Airport. Flight times range from 1.5 to 3 hours.
What is the best route to drive from Florida to Myrtle Beach?
The best route usually involves taking I-95 North. It’s the most direct highway connecting Florida to South Carolina and leads straight to Myrtle Beach.
Can I take a train from Florida to Myrtle Beach?
There is no direct train to Myrtle Beach. The closest Amtrak station is in Florence, SC, about 60 miles away. You would need additional transport from there.
What are good hotels to stay at in Myrtle Beach?
Popular hotels include Marriott's OceanWatch Villas for beachfront luxury, Hampton Inn & Suites for mid-range comfort, and La Quinta Inn for budget-friendly stays.
