How Far Is Myrtle Beach from Wilmington? Travel Guide

Planning a trip from Wilmington, North Carolina, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? You’re in for a great coastal journey. Both cities offer beautiful beaches, fun attractions, and great food. Knowing the distance and travel options helps you plan your trip better.

In this guide, I’ll share the exact distance between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, the best routes to take, travel tips, and where to stay once you arrive. Whether you’re driving for a day trip or planning a longer stay, this article will help you get there easily and enjoy your visit.

Distance Between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach

The driving distance from Wilmington, NC, to Myrtle Beach, SC, is about 85 miles. This trip usually takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic and your exact starting point in Wilmington.

This makes Myrtle Beach a great option for a day trip or a weekend getaway if you’re based in Wilmington. The route is mostly along highways, making the drive smooth and straightforward.

• Distance: Approximately 85 miles (137 kilometers)

• Driving time: Around 1 hour 45 minutes

• Main highways: US-17 South and SC-9 South

Best Routes to Drive from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach

There are a couple of popular routes you can take to get from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach. Each offers a slightly different experience, so you can choose based on your preferences.

Route 1: US-17 South (Fastest Route)

This is the most direct and fastest route. You’ll take US-17 South from Wilmington, crossing into South Carolina, then continue on SC-9 South to reach Myrtle Beach.

• Mostly highway driving with good road conditions

• Passes through scenic coastal towns like Calabash and Little River

• Several rest stops and gas stations along the way

Route 2: Coastal Scenic Route via NC-210 and SC-179

If you want a more scenic drive, consider taking NC-210 from Wilmington to the coast, then SC-179 into Myrtle Beach. This route takes a bit longer but offers views of marshlands and small beach communities.

• More rural and less traffic

• Great for nature lovers and photographers

• Stops include Sunset Beach and Cherry Grove Beach

Travel Tips for the Wilmington to Myrtle Beach Trip

To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, keep these travel tips in mind:

• Check traffic: US-17 can get busy during weekends and holidays. Try to travel early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid rush hours.

• Fuel up: Gas stations are available along the route, but it’s good to start with a full tank.

• Pack snacks and water: Especially if you take the scenic route, stops can be limited.

• Bring beach gear: Both Wilmington and Myrtle Beach have great beaches, so pack swimsuits, towels, and sunscreen.

• Use GPS or a map app: To stay on track and find detours or attractions easily.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget motels to luxury resorts. Here are some top options depending on your style and budget.

Luxury Resorts

• Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: A beachfront resort with golf courses, pools, and fine dining.

• North Beach Resort & Villas: Offers spacious suites and ocean views, great for families.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach: Family-friendly with pools and easy beach access.

• SpringHill Suites by Marriott: Comfortable rooms near the boardwalk and attractions.

Budget Stays

• Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort: Affordable rooms right on the beach.

• La Quinta Inn & Suites: Clean, budget-friendly, and close to shopping areas.

Top Attractions to Visit in Myrtle Beach

Once you arrive, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are some must-visit spots in Myrtle Beach:

• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Broadway at the Beach: A large shopping and entertainment complex with rides and shows.

• SkyWheel Myrtle Beach: A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the coast.

• Brookgreen Gardens: Beautiful gardens and sculptures just south of Myrtle Beach.

• Local seafood restaurants: Try fresh shrimp, crab, and fish at places like Sea Captain’s House or Mr. Fish.

Exploring Wilmington Before or After Your Myrtle Beach Trip

Wilmington is a charming city with its own attractions worth exploring. If you have time, check out these highlights:

• Historic Downtown Wilmington: Walk along the Riverwalk, visit shops, and dine by the Cape Fear River.

• USS North Carolina Battleship: Tour this World War II battleship docked in Wilmington.

• Wrightsville Beach: Just east of Wilmington, a great spot for surfing and beach fun.

• Airlie Gardens: Beautiful gardens with walking trails and seasonal blooms.

Public Transportation and Alternative Travel Options

While driving is the easiest way to travel between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, here are other options:

• Bus services: Limited direct bus routes exist, so check providers like Greyhound or regional transit.

• Rideshare: Services like Uber or Lyft can be expensive for this distance but possible for one-way trips.

• Car rentals: Renting a car in Wilmington is common and gives you freedom to explore along the way.

Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach and Wilmington

Both cities enjoy mild weather most of the year. Here’s when to plan your trip:

• Spring (March to May): Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

• Summer (June to August): Warm beach weather but busy and more expensive.

• Fall (September to November): Cooler weather and great for outdoor activities.

• Winter (December to February): Mild but quieter, some attractions may have limited hours.

Planning Your Trip: Booking and Packing Tips

To get the most from your trip, consider these tips:

• Book accommodations early: Especially for summer weekends and holidays.

• Reserve rental cars in advance: To get better rates and availability.

• Pack layers: Coastal weather can change quickly, so bring light jackets.

• Bring beach essentials: Sunscreen, hats, and water shoes.

• Plan activities ahead: Some tours and shows require reservations.

Conclusion

Traveling from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach is an easy and enjoyable trip. The 85-mile drive takes less than two hours, making it perfect for a day trip or a longer vacation. You can choose a fast highway route or a scenic coastal drive depending on your mood.

Once in Myrtle Beach, you’ll find plenty of places to stay, from luxury resorts to budget hotels. The area offers many attractions, including beaches, shopping, and entertainment. Wilmington itself is also worth exploring before or after your Myrtle Beach visit. With a bit of planning, your coastal trip will be smooth and fun.

FAQs

How long does it take to drive from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach?

The drive usually takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering roughly 85 miles via US-17 South and SC-9 South. Traffic can affect travel times, especially on weekends.

Is there public transportation between Wilmington and Myrtle Beach?

Public transportation options are limited. There are no direct regular bus routes, so driving or renting a car is the most practical way to travel between the two cities.

What is the best time of year to visit Myrtle Beach from Wilmington?

Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them the best times to visit. Summer is popular but can be hot and busy, while winter is quieter but cooler.

Are there good places to stay near Myrtle Beach for families?

Yes, resorts like North Beach Resort & Villas and Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach offer family-friendly amenities such as pools, kitchens, and easy beach access.

Can I take a scenic route from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach?

Yes, taking NC-210 and SC-179 offers a more scenic drive through coastal marshes and small beach towns like Sunset Beach, though it takes longer than the main highway route.