How Far Is Myrtle Beach from Hampton VA? Travel Guide
Discover the distance from Hampton, VA to Myrtle Beach, SC, travel tips, best routes, and places to stay for a smooth trip.
Planning a trip from Hampton, Virginia, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? You might be wondering how far the two cities are and the best way to travel between them. Whether you’re heading for a beach vacation or a quick getaway, knowing the distance and travel options helps you plan better.
In this guide, I’ll share the exact distance, travel routes, driving tips, and some great places to stay in Myrtle Beach. This way, you can enjoy your trip without surprises and find the perfect spot to relax once you arrive.
Distance Between Hampton, VA and Myrtle Beach, SC
The driving distance from Hampton, Virginia, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is about 330 miles (531 kilometers). This trip usually takes around 5.5 to 6 hours by car, depending on traffic and your exact starting point in Hampton.
The route mostly follows Interstate 95 South and then connects to US-17 South near the North Carolina border. This is the most direct and popular way to travel between these two cities.
Distance: Approximately 330 miles (531 km)
Estimated driving time: 5.5 to 6 hours
Main highways: I-64 West to I-95 South, then US-17 South
Best Routes to Drive from Hampton to Myrtle Beach
There are a couple of main routes you can take when driving from Hampton to Myrtle Beach. Each has its own benefits depending on your preferences for speed, scenery, or stops along the way.
Route 1: I-64 West to I-95 South, then US-17 South
This is the fastest and most straightforward route. You start by taking I-64 West from Hampton to Richmond, then switch to I-95 South. Near Emporia, Virginia, you exit onto US-17 South, which takes you all the way to Myrtle Beach.
Pros: Fastest, well-maintained highways, many rest stops
Cons: Can have heavy traffic near Richmond and I-95
Route 2: I-64 West to US-258 South, then US-17 South
This route is a bit longer but offers a more scenic drive through smaller towns and countryside. You take I-64 West, then exit onto US-258 South near Franklin, VA. From there, you join US-17 South toward Myrtle Beach.
Pros: Less traffic, more scenic, chance to explore small towns
Cons: Longer drive time, fewer highway rest stops
Travel Tips for the Hampton to Myrtle Beach Drive
Driving over 300 miles requires some planning. Here are some tips to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Start early: Leaving early in the morning helps you avoid rush hour traffic near Hampton and Richmond.
Plan rest stops: Consider stopping in cities like Richmond, Emporia, or Elizabeth City for breaks and meals.
Check traffic updates: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to avoid accidents or heavy congestion.
Fuel up: Fill your tank before leaving and at major stops to avoid running low in rural areas.
Pack snacks and water: Keep refreshments handy, especially if you take the scenic route with fewer stops.
Public Transportation Options Between Hampton and Myrtle Beach
If you don’t want to drive, there are limited public transportation options between Hampton and Myrtle Beach. Here’s what you can consider.
Bus Services
Greyhound offers bus routes connecting Hampton Roads to Myrtle Beach, but these trips often require transfers and take longer than driving.
Typical travel time: 8 to 10 hours
Transfers: Usually in Richmond or Fayetteville
Cost: Generally affordable, but check schedules in advance
Train Services
There is no direct train between Hampton and Myrtle Beach. The closest Amtrak stations are in Newport News (near Hampton) and Florence, SC (near Myrtle Beach). You would need additional transport from Florence to Myrtle Beach.
Amtrak route: Newport News to Florence with transfers
Additional travel: Bus or taxi from Florence to Myrtle Beach (about 1 hour)
Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive, you’ll want a comfortable place to stay. Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals to fit your budget and preferences.
Top Hotels and Resorts
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: A luxury resort with golf courses, spa, and ocean views.
Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: Family-friendly with pools, beach access, and entertainment.
Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort: Located on the boardwalk with easy access to shops and restaurants.
Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach: Great for families, with pools and a beachfront location.
Budget-Friendly Stays
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Myrtle Beach: Affordable, clean, and close to the beach.
Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort: Good value with ocean views and pools.
Comfort Inn & Suites: Convenient location with free breakfast and parking.
Vacation Rentals
For a home-like feel, consider renting a condo or beach house. Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer many options near the beach, perfect for families or groups.
Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is famous for its sandy shores, but there’s more to explore beyond the beach.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Stroll along shops, restaurants, and arcades.
Broadway at the Beach: A large entertainment complex with dining, shopping, and attractions.
Golf Courses: Myrtle Beach is known as a golf destination with over 90 courses.
Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Classic rides and fun for all ages.
Brookgreen Gardens: Beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve.
Best Time to Travel from Hampton to Myrtle Beach
The best time to visit Myrtle Beach depends on your weather preferences and crowd tolerance.
Spring (March to May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower hotel rates.
Summer (June to August): Warmest weather and busiest season with many events.
Fall (September to November): Cooler temperatures and less crowded beaches.
Winter (December to February): Mild but cooler weather; some attractions may close.
Traveling from Hampton to Myrtle Beach is easier during spring and fall when traffic is lighter and accommodations are more affordable.
Planning Your Trip: Final Tips
Before you hit the road, keep these final tips in mind to make your trip smooth.
Book accommodations early: Myrtle Beach hotels fill quickly during peak seasons.
Check local events: Festivals and concerts can affect hotel prices and traffic.
Prepare for tolls: Some routes may have toll roads; keep cash or electronic payment ready.
Bring beach gear: Sunscreen, hats, and swimwear are must-haves for Myrtle Beach.
Have a backup plan: Weather or traffic delays can happen, so stay flexible.
Conclusion
Driving from Hampton, VA, to Myrtle Beach, SC, covers about 330 miles and takes around 5.5 to 6 hours. The trip is straightforward, mainly along I-95 and US-17, with options for scenic detours. Whether you drive or take a bus, planning your route and stops helps you enjoy the journey.
Once in Myrtle Beach, you’ll find plenty of places to stay, from luxury resorts to budget hotels and vacation rentals. The city offers many attractions beyond the beach, making it a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With the right planning, your trip from Hampton to Myrtle Beach can be a fun and relaxing adventure.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Hampton, VA, to Myrtle Beach?
The drive usually takes between 5.5 and 6 hours, depending on traffic and your exact starting point. The distance is about 330 miles.
What is the best route to drive from Hampton to Myrtle Beach?
The fastest route is via I-64 West to I-95 South, then US-17 South. This route offers good highways and rest stops.
Are there public transportation options between Hampton and Myrtle Beach?
Yes, Greyhound buses connect the two cities but require transfers and take longer. There is no direct train service.
What are some good hotels to stay at in Myrtle Beach?
Popular hotels include Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort, and Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort. Budget options like La Quinta Inn are also available.
When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?
Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is busiest with warm weather, while winter is cooler and quieter.
