How Far Is Myrtle Beach from St. Petersburg?
Discover the distance between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg, travel options, and tips for a smooth trip between these popular Florida destinations.
Planning a trip between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg? You might be wondering how far apart these two popular destinations are and the best ways to travel between them. Whether you want to drive, fly, or take a combination of transport, knowing the distance and travel options helps you plan better.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the distance, travel routes, and tips for a smooth journey. I’ll also share some highlights about both places so you can make the most of your trip.
Distance Between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
The driving distance from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to St. Petersburg, Florida, is approximately 520 miles (837 kilometers). This distance can vary slightly depending on the exact starting and ending points in each city and the route you take.
By car, the trip usually takes around 8 to 9 hours without long stops. If you plan to drive, it’s a good idea to prepare for a full day on the road or split the journey into two days for a more relaxed trip.
Driving distance: About 520 miles (837 km)
Estimated driving time: 8 to 9 hours
Main highways: I-95 South and I-75 South are the primary routes
Driving Route Options
There are a few main routes you can take when driving from Myrtle Beach to St. Petersburg. The most common and fastest route uses major interstates.
Route 1 (Fastest): Take US-17 South from Myrtle Beach to connect with I-95 South near Florence, SC. Continue on I-95 South through Georgia and into Florida. Near Tampa, switch to I-275 South to reach St. Petersburg.
Route 2 (Scenic): Use US-17 South along the coast through Charleston, SC, and Savannah, GA. This route is longer but offers coastal views and charming towns. Then connect to I-75 South near Tampa to reach St. Petersburg.
Both routes are well-maintained and have plenty of rest stops, gas stations, and restaurants. If you want to avoid heavy traffic, try to travel outside of rush hours, especially near major cities like Savannah and Tampa.
Flying Between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
If you prefer to fly, you can book a flight from Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) to Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is the closest major airport to St. Petersburg. The flight distance is about 450 miles (724 km), and direct flights usually take around 1.5 hours.
From Tampa International Airport, St. Petersburg is about a 30-minute drive. You can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach your final destination.
Flight time: About 1.5 hours direct
Airports: Myrtle Beach International (MYR) to Tampa International (TPA)
Ground transfer: 20-30 minutes from Tampa Airport to St. Petersburg
Keep in mind that direct flights may not always be available every day. Sometimes you might need a connection, which can add to your travel time. Booking early often helps you find better prices and flight options.
Bus and Train Travel Options
Traveling by bus or train between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg is possible but less convenient. There is no direct train line connecting the two cities, so train travel would require multiple transfers and could take over 15 hours.
Bus services like Greyhound operate routes between the general regions, but you will likely need to change buses in major cities such as Savannah or Jacksonville. The total bus trip can take 12 to 16 hours depending on connections.
No direct train service between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
Bus travel requires transfers and takes 12+ hours
Best for budget travelers with flexible schedules
For most travelers, flying or driving is a better option unless you want to enjoy a slow, budget-friendly journey with stops along the way.
When to Travel Between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
Both Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg have warm climates, but the best time to travel depends on your preferences.
Spring and Fall: These seasons offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Driving or flying during these times is usually smooth.
Summer: Expect hot temperatures and higher humidity. Summer is peak tourist season, so book accommodations and flights early.
Winter: Mild and pleasant in both places, making it a great escape from colder northern states.
Traffic can be heavier during holiday weekends, so plan accordingly if you’re driving. Also, hurricane season runs from June to November, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if you travel then.
Top Attractions Near Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
Both cities offer plenty to see and do. If you have time, consider exploring these highlights near each destination.
Near Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively oceanfront area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Broadway at the Beach: A large shopping and entertainment complex with rides and nightlife.
Brookgreen Gardens: Beautiful sculpture gardens and wildlife preserve just south of Myrtle Beach.
Near St. Petersburg
Fort De Soto Park: A stunning beach park with trails, kayaking, and historic forts.
Dali Museum: Home to a large collection of Salvador Dali’s artwork.
St. Pete Beach: Known for soft white sand and clear waters, perfect for relaxing.
Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
Both cities offer a range of hotels and accommodations to fit your budget and style.
Hotels in Myrtle Beach
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: A luxury resort with golf and marina access.
Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach: Family-friendly with oceanfront pools and activities.
Bay View Resort: Budget-friendly with kitchenettes and easy beach access.
Hotels in St. Petersburg
Don CeSar Hotel: Historic beachfront resort with upscale amenities.
Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park: Modern hotel near downtown and museums.
Red Roof Inn St. Petersburg: Affordable option close to beaches and city center.
Tips for a Smooth Trip Between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg
Book early: Flights and hotels fill up fast during peak seasons.
Check traffic: Use apps like Google Maps to avoid delays on I-95 and I-75.
Plan stops: If driving, schedule breaks in cities like Savannah or Jacksonville.
Pack smart: Bring sunscreen and light clothes for warm weather.
Use travel apps: Apps can help you find gas stations, restaurants, and attractions along the way.
Conclusion
Knowing how far Myrtle Beach is from St. Petersburg helps you plan your trip with confidence. The two cities are about 520 miles apart, making driving a full-day journey or a quick flight away. Each travel option has its pros and cons depending on your budget and time.
Both destinations offer beautiful beaches, fun attractions, and warm weather. Whether you drive along the coast, fly into Tampa, or explore by bus, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this part of the Southeast. With a little planning, your trip between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg can be smooth and memorable.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Myrtle Beach to St. Petersburg?
The drive usually takes about 8 to 9 hours without long stops. Traffic and route choice can affect the time.
Are there direct flights between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg?
There are no direct flights to St. Petersburg, but you can fly from Myrtle Beach to Tampa International Airport, which is about 30 minutes from St. Petersburg.
What is the best route to drive between these cities?
The fastest route is via I-95 South to I-275 South near Tampa. A scenic option follows US-17 along the coast before joining I-75 South.
Can I take a bus or train between Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg?
Bus travel is possible but requires transfers and takes 12+ hours. There is no direct train service between the two cities.
What are some must-see attractions near Myrtle Beach and St. Petersburg?
Near Myrtle Beach, visit the Boardwalk and Brookgreen Gardens. Near St. Petersburg, check out Fort De Soto Park and the Dali Museum.
