How Far Is North Myrtle Beach from Savannah?
Discover the distance and travel options from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach, plus tips on stops and local attractions along the way.
Planning a trip from Savannah, Georgia, to North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? You’re in for a scenic journey along the southeastern coast. Whether you’re driving for a beach getaway or exploring charming towns en route, knowing the distance and travel details helps you plan better.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact distance, the best routes to take, travel time, and some great stops along the way. I’ll also share tips on where to stay once you reach North Myrtle Beach and what to do to make the most of your trip.
Distance Between North Myrtle Beach and Savannah
The driving distance from Savannah, GA, to North Myrtle Beach, SC, is about 110 miles (177 kilometers). This makes it a manageable trip for a day drive or a short road trip. The route mostly follows major highways, making it easy and straightforward.
Here’s what you can expect:
Driving Distance: Approximately 110 miles
Estimated Driving Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours without heavy traffic
Route: Primarily via US-17 North
This distance is perfect if you want to enjoy a beach day or a weekend escape without spending too much time on the road.
Best Routes to Travel from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach
The most common and fastest route is taking US-17 North. This highway runs close to the coast and offers some beautiful views and interesting stops.
Here are the main routes you can consider:
US-17 North: This is the direct coastal route. It’s scenic and passes through small towns and marshlands. You’ll stay close to the water and see charming Southern landscapes.
Interstate 95 to US-17: You can take I-95 North from Savannah for a short distance, then switch to US-17 North near Hardeeville, SC. This might be faster depending on traffic.
Alternate Routes: For a more inland drive, you could take US-278 East from Savannah to Hilton Head Island, then connect to US-17 North. This adds some time but offers a chance to explore Hilton Head.
Using a GPS or a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze will help you pick the best route based on current traffic conditions.
Travel Time and Traffic Considerations
Driving from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. However, travel time can vary depending on the day and time you travel.
Here are some tips to avoid delays:
Avoid Rush Hours: Traffic around Savannah and near Myrtle Beach can get busy during morning and evening rush hours.
Check for Road Work: US-17 sometimes has construction zones. Check local traffic updates before you leave.
Weekends and Holidays: Summer weekends and holidays bring more travelers to the beach, so expect heavier traffic then.
Planning your trip early in the day or later in the evening can help you avoid the busiest times.
Things to Do Along the Way
The drive from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach offers some great spots to stop and explore. Here are a few places worth visiting:
Beaufort, SC: A charming historic town with beautiful waterfront views, old homes, and great restaurants. It’s about 45 minutes from Savannah.
Hilton Head Island: Just a short detour off US-278, Hilton Head has lovely beaches, golf courses, and bike trails.
Georgetown, SC: A historic port town with a quaint downtown and waterfront park. It’s a nice place to stretch your legs.
Myrtle Beach State Park: Before reaching North Myrtle Beach, this park offers nature trails, picnic spots, and beach access.
Stopping at these places can make your trip more enjoyable and break up the drive.
Where to Stay in North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach has a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and tastes. Whether you want a beachfront resort or a cozy vacation rental, you’ll find plenty of options.
Popular hotel brands and areas include:
Oceanfront Resorts: Look for places like The Breakers Resort or Caribbean Resort & Villas for direct beach access and family-friendly amenities.
Budget Hotels: Chains like Holiday Inn Express and Best Western offer comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
Vacation Rentals: Many travelers prefer renting condos or beach houses through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo for more space and a homey feel.
Near Main Attractions: Staying near Barefoot Landing or the Cherry Grove area puts you close to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak summer months, to secure the best rates and availability.
Top Attractions in North Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive, there’s plenty to see and do in North Myrtle Beach. Here are some highlights:
Beaches: Enjoy wide sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports.
Barefoot Landing: A popular shopping and dining complex with live music and family activities.
Alligator Adventure: A large reptile park featuring alligators, crocodiles, and other exotic animals.
Golf Courses: North Myrtle Beach is known for its golf, with many courses designed by famous architects.
Water Sports: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing charters available along the coast.
These attractions make North Myrtle Beach a great place for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
To make your drive and stay more enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:
Pack Snacks and Water: There are stops along the way, but having your own refreshments helps during the drive.
Check Weather: Coastal weather can change quickly. Look at the forecast before you leave.
Plan Your Stops: Decide if you want to explore towns or just drive straight through.
Book Accommodations Early: Especially in summer, hotels fill up fast.
Use Navigation Apps: They provide real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.
With these simple steps, your trip from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach will be smooth and fun.
Conclusion
Traveling from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach is a great way to enjoy the southeastern coast’s beauty. The 110-mile drive is easy and offers chances to explore historic towns and scenic spots along the way.
Whether you’re heading for a relaxing beach vacation or a quick weekend getaway, knowing the distance, routes, and travel tips helps you plan better. Once in North Myrtle Beach, you’ll find plenty of places to stay and fun things to do. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable trip!
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach?
The drive usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
What is the best route to take from Savannah to North Myrtle Beach?
The most direct and scenic route is US-17 North, which follows the coast and passes through charming towns.
Are there interesting places to stop between Savannah and North Myrtle Beach?
Yes, Beaufort, Hilton Head Island, and Georgetown are great stops with historic sites, beaches, and dining options.
What types of accommodations are available in North Myrtle Beach?
You can find beachfront resorts, budget hotels, and vacation rentals to suit families, couples, and solo travelers.
Is traffic heavy on the route during summer weekends?
Yes, summer weekends and holidays can bring heavier traffic, so plan to travel early or late to avoid delays.
