How Far Is Pinehurst from Myrtle Beach? Travel Guide & Tips

Planning a trip between Pinehurst, North Carolina, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? You might be wondering how far these two popular destinations are and the best way to travel between them. Whether you’re heading to Pinehurst for its famous golf courses or Myrtle Beach for its sandy shores, knowing the distance and travel options will help you plan your trip with ease.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the distance, driving routes, travel times, and some helpful tips for stops along the way. You’ll also find suggestions on where to stay if you want to explore both areas. Let’s get started so you can enjoy your journey without any surprises.

Distance Between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach

The driving distance from Pinehurst to Myrtle Beach is about 120 miles (193 kilometers). This makes it a manageable trip by car, usually taking around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic and your exact starting and ending points.

Here are some key points about the distance:

• The most common route is via US-1 South and US-501 South, which is the fastest and most direct.

• The distance can vary slightly if you take alternate routes or detours to visit nearby towns or attractions.

• If you plan to fly, the nearest airports are Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) near Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR).

Best Driving Routes from Pinehurst to Myrtle Beach

Driving is the most popular way to travel between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach. Here are the main routes you can take:

Route 1: US-1 South and US-501 South (Fastest Route)

This route covers about 120 miles and takes roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes.

• Start on US-1 South from Pinehurst.

• Merge onto US-501 South near Aberdeen.

• Continue on US-501 South through Laurinburg and into South Carolina.

• Follow signs to Myrtle Beach via SC-9 East.

This route is mostly highway driving with some stretches of two-lane roads. It’s scenic and passes through small towns where you can stop for food or gas.

Route 2: I-95 South and US-501 South (Longer but More Highway)

This option is about 135 miles and takes around 3 hours.

• Take US-1 South from Pinehurst to I-95 South near Fayetteville.

• Drive south on I-95 to exit 181 for US-501 South.

• Follow US-501 South to Myrtle Beach.

This route uses more interstate highway, which can be faster during off-peak times but may have more traffic near Fayetteville.

Travel Tips for the Pinehurst to Myrtle Beach Trip

Here are some tips to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:

• Check traffic reports: Traffic can build up near Fayetteville and Myrtle Beach, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Plan fuel stops: There are plenty of gas stations along US-1 and US-501, but some stretches are rural.

• Bring snacks and water: The drive is long enough that having refreshments helps.

• Consider timing: Leaving early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid heavy traffic.

• Use a GPS or map app: This helps with real-time traffic updates and alternate routes.

Places to Stop Along the Way

If you want to break up the drive, here are some interesting stops between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach:

• Aberdeen, NC: A small town with local shops and restaurants. Great for a quick coffee or meal.

• Laurinburg, NC: Visit the historic downtown or grab a bite at local diners.

• Fayetteville, NC: A larger city with museums like the Airborne and Special Operations Museum. Good for a longer break.

• Little River, SC: Just before Myrtle Beach, this fishing village offers seafood restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere.

Where to Stay Near Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach

If you want to explore both areas, consider these lodging options:

In Pinehurst

• The Carolina Hotel: A historic hotel in the heart of Pinehurst Village, perfect for golf lovers.

• Fairfield Inn & Suites Pinehurst: A budget-friendly option with modern amenities.

• Hampton Inn Pinehurst: Convenient location with free breakfast and pool.

In Myrtle Beach

• Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: A luxury resort with golf and beach access.

• Holiday Inn Resort Myrtle Beach: Family-friendly with ocean views and pools.

• Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort: Affordable beachfront stay with easy access to attractions.

Other Travel Options Between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach

While driving is the easiest way, here are other options:

• Bus: There is no direct bus route. You would need to connect through larger cities like Fayetteville or Raleigh.

• Air travel: You can fly from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to Myrtle Beach International Airport, but this is usually less convenient due to short distance.

• Rideshare or car rental: Renting a car is common for flexibility. Rideshare services may be costly for this distance.

Things to Do in Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach

Both destinations offer unique experiences worth exploring.

In Pinehurst

• Play golf at Pinehurst Resort, home to several championship courses.

• Visit the Tufts Archives to learn about golf history.

• Explore the charming Pinehurst Village with shops and restaurants.

In Myrtle Beach

• Relax on the wide sandy beaches and enjoy water sports.

• Visit Broadway at the Beach for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

• Explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel.

Planning Your Trip: Final Thoughts

Traveling from Pinehurst to Myrtle Beach is straightforward and offers a chance to enjoy two very different sides of the Carolinas. With about 120 miles between them, you can easily drive in under three hours.

Whether you’re visiting for golf, beaches, or family fun, knowing your route and options will help you have a smooth trip. Pack your bags, plan your stops, and get ready to enjoy the best of both destinations.

FAQs

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

The drive usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, covering roughly 120 miles depending on traffic and your exact route.

What is the best route to drive between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach?

The fastest route is via US-1 South and US-501 South, which is direct and scenic, taking about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Are there any good places to stop between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach?

Yes, towns like Aberdeen, Laurinburg, Fayetteville, and Little River offer food, gas, and local attractions for breaks.

Can I fly between Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach?

Flying is possible via Raleigh-Durham and Myrtle Beach airports but is less practical due to the short distance and travel time to airports.

What are popular hotels in Pinehurst and Myrtle Beach?

In Pinehurst, The Carolina Hotel is a top choice. In Myrtle Beach, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes and Holiday Inn Resort are popular options.