Distance from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach (km) & Travel Tips
Discover the distance from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach in kilometers, travel tips, and the best ways to get there easily.
Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach and wondering how far Wilmington International Airport is? You’re in the right place. I’ll guide you through the exact distance in kilometers, travel options, and tips to make your journey smooth. Whether you’re flying in or just curious, this info will help you plan better.
Wilmington International Airport is a popular gateway for travelers heading to the Grand Strand area. Knowing the distance and travel time helps you decide the best way to get to your beach destination. Let’s explore the details together.
How Far Is Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach in Kilometers?
The driving distance from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is approximately 90 kilometers (about 56 miles). This distance is measured by the most common driving route along U.S. Highway 17 North.
The trip usually takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes by car, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This makes Wilmington Airport a convenient option for travelers visiting Myrtle Beach, especially if flights to Myrtle Beach International Airport are limited or more expensive.
Distance: ~90 kilometers (56 miles)
Estimated driving time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Route: U.S. Highway 17 North
Travel Options from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach
Once you land at Wilmington International Airport, you have several ways to reach Myrtle Beach. Here are the most common options:
1. Renting a Car
Renting a car is the easiest and most flexible way to travel. It lets you explore the area at your own pace.
Major rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis operate at Wilmington Airport.
Driving north on U.S. Highway 17 is straightforward.
Parking in Myrtle Beach is widely available, especially near the beach and downtown.
2. Shuttle Services
Some private shuttle companies offer rides between Wilmington Airport and Myrtle Beach. These can be booked in advance.
Shared shuttles are budget-friendly but may take longer due to multiple stops.
Private shuttles offer direct, quicker service but cost more.
Check companies like Carolina Shuttle or local transport services for availability.
3. Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft operate in Wilmington. They provide door-to-door service but can be costly for the 90 km trip.
Taxi fares may be higher due to distance.
Rideshare apps offer upfront pricing and convenience.
Booking in advance can help ensure availability.
Why Choose Wilmington Airport for Your Myrtle Beach Trip?
Wilmington International Airport is a good alternative for travelers heading to Myrtle Beach. Here’s why:
Less crowded: Wilmington Airport is smaller and less busy than Myrtle Beach International Airport.
More flight options: Some airlines offer better deals or more frequent flights to Wilmington.
Scenic drive: The route to Myrtle Beach passes through charming coastal towns worth a quick stop.
Car rentals: Wide selection and competitive prices.
Top Attractions Near Wilmington Airport and Myrtle Beach
If you have extra time, consider visiting these spots along the way or near your destination.
Near Wilmington Airport
Historic Downtown Wilmington: Beautiful riverfront, shops, and restaurants.
Airlie Gardens: Lovely botanical gardens perfect for a peaceful walk.
Wrightsville Beach: Popular for surfing and sunbathing.
Near Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Broadway at the Beach: Large shopping and entertainment complex.
Brookgreen Gardens: Stunning sculpture garden and wildlife preserve.
Tips for Booking Your Trip
To make your travel from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach smooth, keep these tips in mind:
Book car rentals early: This ensures availability and better rates.
Check shuttle schedules: Confirm times and book ahead if possible.
Compare flight prices: Sometimes flying directly to Myrtle Beach International Airport is cheaper or more convenient.
Plan your route: Use GPS or apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates.
What to Expect on the Drive
The drive from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach is mostly along U.S. Highway 17, a well-maintained highway with scenic views.
The road passes through small towns like Calabash and Little River.
You’ll see marshlands, coastal forests, and occasional ocean views.
Several rest stops and gas stations are available along the way.
Traffic can increase during weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
Alternative Airports Near Myrtle Beach
If you want other options besides Wilmington Airport, consider these airports:
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): Closest airport, about 5 km from downtown Myrtle Beach.
Charleston International Airport (CHS): About 160 km southwest, a larger airport with more flight options.
Florence Regional Airport (FLO): Around 120 km west, smaller but useful for some flights.
Each airport has its own pros and cons depending on your travel plans and flight availability.
Planning Your Stay in Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive, Myrtle Beach offers many accommodation options. Here are some popular choices:
Beachfront resorts: Like the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes or Dunes Village Resort.
Budget hotels: Comfort Inn, La Quinta, and Holiday Inn Express offer good value.
Vacation rentals: Many condos and homes are available for families or groups.
Booking early can help you secure the best rates and locations.
Conclusion
The distance from Wilmington International Airport to Myrtle Beach is about 90 kilometers, making it a convenient option for travelers. The drive is scenic and takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes. You can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use rideshare services to reach your destination.
Choosing Wilmington Airport might save you money or offer better flight options. Plus, the route to Myrtle Beach passes through charming coastal towns worth exploring. With this information, you can plan your trip confidently and enjoy your time on the beautiful Grand Strand.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach?
The drive usually takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The route is approximately 90 kilometers along U.S. Highway 17 North.
Are there shuttle services from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach?
Yes, some private shuttle companies offer rides between Wilmington Airport and Myrtle Beach. You can book shared or private shuttles in advance for convenience.
Is renting a car the best way to travel from Wilmington Airport to Myrtle Beach?
Renting a car is the most flexible and popular option. It allows you to explore the area freely and manage your schedule easily.
What other airports can I use to get to Myrtle Beach?
You can also fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport, Charleston International Airport, or Florence Regional Airport, depending on your location and flight options.
Are there interesting stops between Wilmington Airport and Myrtle Beach?
Yes, towns like Calabash and Little River offer dining and shopping. You can also enjoy coastal views and local attractions along U.S. Highway 17.
