Driving Time from New York to Myrtle Beach
Discover how many hours driving from New York to Myrtle Beach takes, plus tips on routes, stops, and places to stay along the way.
Planning a road trip from New York to Myrtle Beach? Knowing the driving time helps you prepare better. Whether you want to drive straight through or take breaks, this guide covers everything you need to know about the journey.
We’ll explore the best routes, estimated driving hours, and useful tips for stops and accommodations. This way, you can enjoy a smooth and fun trip from the Big Apple to the sunny shores of South Carolina.
How Many Hours Does It Take to Drive from New York to Myrtle Beach?
The driving distance between New York City and Myrtle Beach is about 630 miles (1,014 kilometers). On average, the trip takes around 10 to 11 hours without long stops.
This estimate depends on traffic, weather, and your exact starting point in New York. If you leave during off-peak hours, you might save some time. However, heavy traffic near New York or around major cities on the way can add to your travel time.
Distance: Approximately 630 miles
Estimated driving time: 10 to 11 hours
Main highways: I-95 South and US-17 South
Best Driving Routes from New York to Myrtle Beach
There are two main routes to drive from New York to Myrtle Beach. Each has its own advantages depending on your preferences for speed, scenery, or stops.
1. I-95 South Route (Fastest)
This is the most direct and fastest route. It mainly follows Interstate 95 South through New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina before reaching South Carolina.
Passes through major cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Richmond.
Good for travelers who want to reach Myrtle Beach quickly.
Many rest stops, gas stations, and restaurants along the way.
2. Coastal US-17 Route (Scenic)
This route follows US Highway 17 South closer to the Atlantic coast. It is longer but offers more scenic views and small-town stops.
Passes through charming towns like Cape May, Delaware Beaches, and Wilmington, NC.
Ideal if you want to explore coastal areas and avoid heavy highway traffic.
May add 1 to 2 hours to your travel time.
Tips for Driving from New York to Myrtle Beach
Here are some practical tips to make your road trip easier and more enjoyable.
Start early: Leaving early in the morning helps you avoid city rush hours and heavy traffic.
Plan rest stops: Take breaks every 2-3 hours to stretch and refresh. Good stops include Wilmington, NC, and Richmond, VA.
Check traffic apps: Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to monitor traffic and find alternate routes if needed.
Fuel up smartly: Fill your tank before leaving and refuel at larger towns to avoid higher prices on the highway.
Pack snacks and water: This helps if you get stuck in traffic or want to avoid frequent stops.
Where to Stay If You Want to Break the Trip
If you prefer not to drive straight through, consider stopping overnight. Here are some good cities to rest along the way.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
About 1.5 to 2 hours from New York, Philadelphia offers many hotel options and great food. It’s a good first stop if you want to break the trip early.
Richmond, Virginia
Roughly halfway between New York and Myrtle Beach, Richmond has comfortable hotels and interesting history. Staying here splits your drive into two manageable parts.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Close to Myrtle Beach, Wilmington is a charming coastal city. It’s a nice place to relax before the final leg of your trip.
Best Hotels and Stays in Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive in Myrtle Beach, you’ll find many places to stay, from budget motels to luxury resorts. Here are some popular options.
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: A luxury resort with golf courses and ocean views.
Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: Family-friendly with pools and beach access.
Bay View Resort: Affordable with spacious suites and oceanfront location.
La Quinta Inn & Suites: Budget option with free breakfast and parking.
Things to Do in Myrtle Beach After Your Drive
Myrtle Beach is famous for its beaches, golf, and family fun. Here are some top activities to enjoy after your drive.
Relax on the beach: The wide sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Visit Broadway at the Beach: A large entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Play golf: Myrtle Beach has over 100 golf courses for all skill levels.
Explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively area with shops, arcades, and the SkyWheel Ferris wheel.
Driving Safety and Weather Considerations
Driving from New York to Myrtle Beach means crossing several states with different weather patterns. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Winter driving: Snow and ice can affect northern parts near New York and Pennsylvania. Check forecasts before you leave.
Summer traffic: Myrtle Beach is popular in summer, so expect more traffic near the destination.
Storm season: Hurricane season runs from June to November. Stay updated on weather alerts if traveling then.
Night driving: If you drive at night, be cautious of fatigue and reduced visibility.
Alternative Travel Options to Myrtle Beach
If you don’t want to drive the whole way, here are some other ways to get to Myrtle Beach from New York.
Fly: Myrtle Beach International Airport has direct flights from New York airports like JFK and LaGuardia.
Bus: Greyhound and other bus lines offer routes to Myrtle Beach with stops along the way.
Train: Amtrak runs to nearby cities like Florence, SC. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle.
Planning Your Road Trip Budget
Knowing the costs helps you plan better. Here’s what to expect for a New York to Myrtle Beach drive.
Gas: Expect to spend around $70 to $100 on fuel, depending on your car’s mileage.
Tolls: Some parts of I-95 have tolls, especially in New Jersey and Delaware. Budget about $20 to $30.
Food and drinks: Plan for meals and snacks on the road. Fast food and diners are common along the route.
Lodging: Overnight stays vary from $70 for budget hotels to $150+ for nicer places.
Final Thoughts on Driving from New York to Myrtle Beach
Driving from New York to Myrtle Beach is a long but rewarding trip. You get to see many parts of the East Coast and enjoy the freedom of the road.
With good planning, you can make the drive comfortable and fun. Choose the route that fits your style, plan stops to rest, and prepare for the weather. Soon, you’ll be relaxing on Myrtle Beach’s sandy shores.
FAQs
How far is Myrtle Beach from New York by car?
The distance is about 630 miles, which usually takes around 10 to 11 hours of driving without long stops.
What is the fastest route from New York to Myrtle Beach?
The fastest route is via Interstate 95 South, passing through cities like Philadelphia and Richmond.
Are there tolls on the drive from New York to Myrtle Beach?
Yes, you will encounter tolls mainly in New Jersey and Delaware, totaling around $20 to $30.
What are good places to stop overnight on the way?
Philadelphia, Richmond, and Wilmington are popular cities to rest and break up the drive.
Can I fly from New York to Myrtle Beach instead of driving?
Yes, Myrtle Beach International Airport offers direct flights from New York airports like JFK and LaGuardia.
