Distance and Travel Tips: Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod

Introduction

Planning a trip from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod? You might be wondering how far these two popular vacation spots are from each other. Both destinations offer unique coastal experiences, but they are located quite far apart on the East Coast.

In this article, I will guide you through the distance between Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod. I will also share travel options, estimated travel times, and tips to help you plan your journey smoothly. Whether you’re driving, flying, or taking a bus, you’ll find useful information here.

How Far Is It From Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod?

The distance between Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Cape Cod, Massachusetts, depends on your exact starting and ending points, but generally, it is about 850 to 900 miles by road.

This means a long drive, usually taking around 14 to 16 hours without long stops. The route covers several states along the East Coast, passing through cities like Richmond, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and Boston.

• Driving Distance: Approximately 860 miles (1,384 kilometers)

• Driving Time: Around 14 to 16 hours depending on traffic and stops

• Flight Distance: About 700 miles (1,126 kilometers) as the crow flies

The difference between driving and flying distances is because flights take a more direct path, while roads curve around cities, rivers, and other obstacles.

Driving From Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod

If you enjoy road trips, driving from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod can be a great way to see the East Coast. The drive takes you through a variety of landscapes and cities.

Here’s what to expect on the drive:

• Main Route: Take US-17 North from Myrtle Beach, then merge onto I-95 North, which leads you through major cities like Richmond, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City.

• Final Leg: After Boston, take the Massachusetts Route 3 South and US-6 East to reach Cape Cod.

• Road Conditions: Most of the route is on highways and interstates, making the drive straightforward but busy near big cities.

• Stops: Plan for rest stops, meals, and refueling every 2-3 hours to stay fresh and safe.

Driving allows you to stop at interesting places along the way, such as historic sites in Philadelphia or the scenic coast of Rhode Island.

Flying Between Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod

Flying is the fastest way to travel between Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod. However, Cape Cod does not have a major airport with many direct flights, so you may need to connect through Boston or another nearby airport.

Here’s how flying works:

• Departure Airport: Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)

• Arrival Airports: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) or Provincetown Municipal Airport (PVC) for Cape Cod

• Flight Time: About 2 to 3 hours of flight time, plus layovers if connecting

• Ground Transport: From Boston, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Cape Cod, which is about 70 miles away.

Booking flights early can save money. Also, check for seasonal flights, as some routes may have limited service in winter.

Bus and Train Options

If you prefer public transportation, you can combine buses and trains to travel from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod. This option takes longer but can be more affordable.

Here’s a typical route:

• Bus from Myrtle Beach: Take a Greyhound or regional bus to a major city like Charleston or Richmond.

• Train: From Richmond or Washington D.C., take an Amtrak train north to Boston.

• Final Leg: From Boston, use local buses or shuttles to reach Cape Cod.

This journey can take 24 hours or more, depending on connections. It’s best for travelers who want to avoid driving or flying.

Best Time to Travel Between Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod

Choosing the right time to travel can make your trip more enjoyable. Both Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod have busy tourist seasons and different weather patterns.

• Summer: Peak season for both places. Expect heavy traffic on roads and higher prices for flights and hotels.

• Spring and Fall: These shoulder seasons offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Roads are less busy, and accommodations are cheaper.

• Winter: Cape Cod can be cold and quiet, while Myrtle Beach stays milder. Some services may be limited in Cape Cod during winter.

Plan your trip to avoid major holidays and weekends if you want less traffic and better deals.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod

Both destinations offer a range of hotels and vacation rentals to fit your budget and style.

Hotels in Myrtle Beach

• Oceanfront Resorts: Consider the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes or Dunes Village Resort for beach views and pools.

• Budget Options: La Quinta Inn & Suites and Best Western offer affordable, clean rooms near the beach.

• Family-Friendly: Caribbean Resort & Villas has water parks and activities for kids.

Hotels in Cape Cod

• Luxury Stays: Chatham Bars Inn and Wequassett Resort provide upscale amenities and ocean views.

• Mid-Range: Cape Codder Resort & Spa offers comfort with pools and spa services.

• Cozy Inns: Try local bed and breakfasts in towns like Provincetown or Hyannis for a charming experience.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey

To make your trip from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod easier, keep these tips in mind:

• Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance, especially in summer.

• Check Traffic: Use apps like Google Maps to avoid rush hours and roadwork.

• Packing: Pack for changing weather, especially if traveling between seasons.

• Rest Stops: Take breaks every few hours if driving to stay alert.

• Local Attractions: Plan stops to explore cities or landmarks along the route.

Conclusion

Traveling from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod covers a long distance of about 860 miles by road. Whether you choose to drive, fly, or use public transport, each option has its benefits and challenges.

Driving lets you see many East Coast highlights, but it takes time. Flying is faster but may require connections. Public transport is affordable but slow. By planning ahead and choosing the best travel method for you, your trip between these two beautiful coastal destinations can be smooth and enjoyable.

FAQs

How long does it take to drive from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod?

The drive usually takes about 14 to 16 hours without long stops. Traffic near big cities can add time.

Are there direct flights from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod?

There are no direct flights to Cape Cod’s main airports. You usually fly to Boston and then travel to Cape Cod by car or shuttle.

What is the best route to drive from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod?

The common route is US-17 North to I-95 North, passing through Richmond, Washington D.C., and Boston, then taking local roads to Cape Cod.

Can I take a train from Myrtle Beach to Cape Cod?

There is no direct train from Myrtle Beach. You can take a bus to a city with Amtrak service, then train to Boston, and continue to Cape Cod by bus or car.

When is the best time to travel between Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod?

Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is busy and more expensive, while winter can be cold in Cape Cod.