How Far Is Horry County from Myrtle Beach?
Discover how far Horry County is from Myrtle Beach, travel tips, local attractions, and the best ways to explore this popular South Carolina area.
If you’re planning a trip to South Carolina’s coast, you might wonder about the distance between Horry County and Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, golf, or family fun, knowing how far these places are helps you plan your travel better. I’ll guide you through the distance, travel options, and what to expect when you explore this vibrant area.
Horry County and Myrtle Beach are closely linked, but understanding their geography and travel routes can make your trip smoother. Let’s dive into the details so you can enjoy your visit without any confusion.
Understanding Horry County and Myrtle Beach
Horry County is a large county in northeastern South Carolina. It covers a wide area along the Atlantic coast. Myrtle Beach is a city located within Horry County. So, technically, Myrtle Beach is part of Horry County.
This means if you are in Myrtle Beach, you are already inside Horry County. But if you are elsewhere in Horry County, you might want to know how far it is to Myrtle Beach’s main attractions.
Horry County includes towns like Conway, North Myrtle Beach, and Surfside Beach.
Myrtle Beach is the largest city in Horry County and a major tourist spot.
The county covers over 1,100 square miles, so distances within it can vary.
Distance Between Myrtle Beach and Key Spots in Horry County
Since Myrtle Beach is inside Horry County, the distance depends on where you start. Here are some common places in Horry County and their distance to Myrtle Beach’s center:
Conway to Myrtle Beach: About 15 miles west, roughly a 25-minute drive.
North Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach: Around 20 miles northeast, about 30 minutes by car.
Surfside Beach to Myrtle Beach: Just 7 miles south, around 15 minutes drive.
Loris to Myrtle Beach: Approximately 30 miles northwest, about 40 minutes drive.
These distances help you plan day trips or decide where to stay if you want to explore the area.
Best Ways to Travel Between Horry County and Myrtle Beach
Traveling within Horry County to Myrtle Beach is easy by car. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or using rideshare services is best.
By Car: The main roads connecting towns to Myrtle Beach include U.S. Highway 17 and Highway 501. These highways are well-maintained and offer scenic views.
Rideshare and Taxi: Uber and Lyft operate in the area, especially in Myrtle Beach and nearby towns.
Public Transit: The Coast RTA bus service connects some parts of Horry County but may have limited routes and schedules.
Driving gives you flexibility to visit beaches, golf courses, and attractions at your own pace.
Top Attractions Near Myrtle Beach in Horry County
When you’re in Myrtle Beach or anywhere in Horry County, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are some top spots worth visiting:
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively oceanfront area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Brookgreen Gardens: A beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve near Murrells Inlet.
Conway Riverwalk: A scenic walkway along the Waccamaw River in Conway.
Huntington Beach State Park: Offers nature trails, bird watching, and a historic mansion.
North Myrtle Beach: Known for its quieter beaches and family-friendly atmosphere.
Exploring these attractions gives you a full experience of Horry County’s charm beyond just Myrtle Beach.
Where to Stay When Visiting Horry County and Myrtle Beach
Choosing the right place to stay depends on your travel plans and budget. Here are some options:
In Myrtle Beach: Large resorts like Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas or Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort offer beachfront access and many amenities.
North Myrtle Beach: Family-friendly hotels such as the Caribbean Resort & Villas provide a quieter setting.
Conway: Budget hotels and cozy inns like the Hampton Inn Conway are good for exploring inland areas.
Surfside Beach: Smaller motels and vacation rentals offer a peaceful beach vibe.
Booking early is smart, especially during summer and holidays when the area gets busy.
Travel Tips for Visiting Horry County and Myrtle Beach
To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:
Plan your travel times to avoid heavy traffic, especially on weekends and holidays.
Use GPS or map apps to navigate highways and local roads easily.
Check local event calendars; Myrtle Beach often hosts festivals and concerts.
Bring beach gear and sunscreen for outdoor fun.
Consider visiting nearby towns in Horry County to experience local culture and dining.
Seasonal Considerations for Travel
The best time to visit Myrtle Beach and Horry County depends on your preferences:
Spring and Fall: Mild weather and fewer crowds make these seasons ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer: Peak tourist season with warm weather, perfect for beach days but expect busy roads and higher prices.
Winter: Cooler and quieter, some attractions may have limited hours, but it’s good for budget travelers.
Adjust your plans based on the season to get the most from your visit.
How to Get to Myrtle Beach and Horry County
Getting to this coastal area is straightforward with several options:
By Air: Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) offers flights from many U.S. cities.
By Car: Major highways like I-95 and US-17 connect the area to nearby states.
By Bus: Greyhound and other bus services reach Myrtle Beach from larger cities.
Once you arrive, renting a car is the easiest way to explore Horry County fully.
Planning Your Itinerary Around Horry County and Myrtle Beach
To enjoy your trip, plan your days to balance beach time, sightseeing, and dining. Here’s a sample itinerary idea:
Day 1: Explore Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and beach.
Day 2: Visit Brookgreen Gardens and Huntington Beach State Park.
Day 3: Take a trip to Conway for the Riverwalk and local shops.
Day 4: Relax at North Myrtle Beach or Surfside Beach.
Adjust based on your interests and travel pace.
Conclusion
Horry County and Myrtle Beach are closely connected, with Myrtle Beach right inside the county. The distance between Myrtle Beach and other parts of Horry County varies but is easy to cover by car. This makes it simple to explore beaches, parks, and towns in the area.
With plenty of attractions, good travel options, and a range of places to stay, you can plan a fun and relaxing trip. Whether you want lively beach scenes or quiet nature spots, Horry County and Myrtle Beach offer something for every traveler.
FAQs
How far is Myrtle Beach from Conway in Horry County?
Myrtle Beach is about 15 miles east of Conway. It takes roughly 25 minutes to drive between the two, making Conway a good spot for a day trip or a quieter stay near Myrtle Beach.
Is Myrtle Beach part of Horry County?
Yes, Myrtle Beach is located within Horry County. It is the largest city in the county and a major tourist destination on South Carolina’s coast.
What is the best way to travel around Horry County?
Driving is the best way to get around Horry County. Renting a car gives you flexibility to visit beaches, parks, and towns. Public transit options are limited in the area.
Are there public transportation options between Myrtle Beach and other towns in Horry County?
The Coast RTA bus service connects some towns in Horry County to Myrtle Beach. However, routes and schedules are limited, so a car is usually more convenient.
What are some must-see attractions near Myrtle Beach in Horry County?
Top attractions include the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Brookgreen Gardens, Huntington Beach State Park, Conway Riverwalk, and the quieter beaches of North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach.
