How Far Is Myrtle Beach from Baton Rouge? Travel Guide

Planning a trip between Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana? You might wonder how far these two cities are and the best way to travel between them. Whether you are driving, flying, or considering stops along the route, this guide will help you plan your journey smoothly.

We will cover the distance, travel time, popular routes, and tips for places to stay or visit along the way. This way, you can enjoy your trip without surprises and make the most of your travel experience.

Distance Between Myrtle Beach and Baton Rouge

The driving distance from Myrtle Beach to Baton Rouge is approximately 720 miles (1,159 kilometers). This distance can vary slightly depending on the exact starting and ending points and the route you choose.

Here are some key points about the distance:

• The most common driving route covers about 720 miles.

• Driving non-stop usually takes around 11 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

• If you fly, the direct flight distance (as the crow flies) is about 600 miles (965 kilometers).

Best Driving Routes from Myrtle Beach to Baton Rouge

Driving is a popular choice for this trip, especially if you want to explore places along the way. The main routes connect you through several states, including South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Here are two common driving routes:

Route 1: I-95 South and I-10 West (Faster Route)

• Start on US-17 South from Myrtle Beach toward Charleston, SC.

• Connect to I-95 South near Charleston.

• Take I-95 South through Georgia toward Savannah.

• Switch to I-16 West in Savannah, then connect to I-75 South briefly.

• Join I-10 West in Florida, continuing through Mobile, Alabama.

• Follow I-10 West into Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

This route is about 720 miles and takes roughly 11 to 12 hours without long stops.

Route 2: Coastal Route via US-17 and I-10 (Scenic Option)

• Take US-17 South along the coast through Charleston and Savannah.

• Continue on US-17 through Georgia and into Florida’s coastal towns.

• Join I-10 West near Jacksonville, Florida.

• Follow I-10 West through Alabama and Mississippi into Baton Rouge.

This route is slightly longer but offers more scenic views of the Atlantic coast and charming towns.

Flying Between Myrtle Beach and Baton Rouge

If you prefer flying, you can find flights connecting Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) and Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR). There are no direct flights, so expect at least one stop, usually in Atlanta or Charlotte.

Flight details:

• Total flight time ranges from 3 to 5 hours, including layovers.

• Major airlines serving these airports include American Airlines, Delta, and United.

• Booking early can help you find better prices and convenient schedules.

Places to Stay Along the Way

If you plan to break your trip into two or more days, here are some good cities to stop and rest:

• Charleston, South Carolina: Known for its historic charm, great food, and beautiful waterfront.

• Savannah, Georgia: Offers lovely parks, historic squares, and cozy inns.

• Mobile, Alabama: A smaller city with museums and waterfront parks.

• New Orleans, Louisiana: If you take a slight detour, enjoy vibrant culture and music.

Each city has a variety of hotels, from budget chains like Hampton Inn and Holiday Inn Express to boutique hotels and resorts.

Travel Tips for Your Myrtle Beach to Baton Rouge Trip

To make your trip comfortable and enjoyable, consider these tips:

• Check traffic updates before you start, especially near big cities like Charleston and Savannah.

• Plan fuel and food stops every 2-3 hours to stay refreshed.

• Book accommodations in advance if traveling during holidays or weekends.

• Use navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time route guidance.

• Pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the drive.

What to Do in Myrtle Beach Before You Leave

If you have time in Myrtle Beach before heading out, enjoy some local attractions:

• Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for shops and ocean views.

• Explore Broadway at the Beach for dining and entertainment.

• Relax on the wide sandy beaches or try water sports.

• Check out local seafood restaurants for fresh catches.

What to Explore in Baton Rouge When You Arrive

Once you reach Baton Rouge, there are many interesting things to see and do:

• Tour the Louisiana State Capitol building, the tallest in the U.S.

• Visit the USS Kidd, a historic World War II destroyer.

• Explore the LSU Rural Life Museum to learn about Louisiana’s past.

• Enjoy the local Cajun and Creole cuisine at popular restaurants.

Alternative Travel Options: Bus and Train

If you don’t want to drive or fly, you can consider bus or train travel, though options are limited:

• Bus: Greyhound offers routes between major cities, but expect long travel times and transfers.

• Train: Amtrak does not have a direct route between Myrtle Beach and Baton Rouge, so train travel is complicated and slow.

Driving or flying remain the most practical choices for this trip.

Summary of Travel Times and Distances

• Driving distance: About 720 miles (11-12 hours).

• Flight distance: About 600 miles (3-5 hours with layovers).

• Bus travel: Possible but slow and involves transfers.

• Train travel: Not practical due to lack of direct routes.

Conclusion

Traveling from Myrtle Beach to Baton Rouge covers a long but scenic route through the southern U.S. You can drive about 720 miles in roughly 11 to 12 hours or fly with a stopover in around 3 to 5 hours.

Choosing your travel method depends on your time, budget, and interest in stopping along the way. Whether you drive or fly, planning ahead will help you enjoy the journey and the destinations at both ends.

FAQs

How long does it take to drive from Myrtle Beach to Baton Rouge?

Driving usually takes about 11 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The distance is roughly 720 miles.

Are there direct flights between Myrtle Beach and Baton Rouge?

No direct flights are available. Most flights have one stop, often in Atlanta or Charlotte, with total travel time around 3 to 5 hours.

What is the best route to drive from Myrtle Beach to Baton Rouge?

The fastest route uses US-17 South, I-95 South, and I-10 West, passing through Charleston, Savannah, and Mobile.

Can I take a bus or train between these cities?

Bus travel is possible but slow and requires transfers. Train travel is not practical due to no direct routes connecting the two cities.

What are good places to stop overnight on this trip?

Charleston, SC; Savannah, GA; and Mobile, AL are popular stops with good hotels and attractions to break up the drive.