How Many Miles to Myrtle Beach: Distances & Travel Tips
Discover accurate distances to Myrtle Beach from major U.S. cities, plus travel tips and best routes for your trip to this popular coastal destination.
Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach? Knowing the distance to this popular South Carolina destination helps you plan your travel time and route. Whether you are driving, flying, or taking a bus, understanding how many miles you need to cover can make your trip smoother.
In this article, we’ll explore the distances from major U.S. cities to Myrtle Beach. We’ll also share travel tips, the best routes to take, and advice on where to stay once you arrive. Let’s get started so you can plan your perfect Myrtle Beach getaway.
Distances to Myrtle Beach from Major U.S. Cities
Myrtle Beach is located on the Atlantic coast of South Carolina. It’s a favorite for beach lovers, golfers, and families. Here are the approximate driving distances from some popular cities:
Charlotte, NC: About 170 miles (around 3 hours by car)
Atlanta, GA: Around 330 miles (about 5.5 hours driving)
Washington, D.C.: Roughly 370 miles (6.5 to 7 hours by car)
New York City, NY: Approximately 620 miles (10 to 11 hours driving)
Orlando, FL: About 430 miles (7 to 8 hours by car)
Raleigh, NC: Around 180 miles (3.5 hours driving)
Charleston, SC: Roughly 95 miles (2 hours by car)
These distances are approximate and can vary depending on your exact starting point and the route you take. Myrtle Beach is well connected by highways, making it accessible for road trips from many nearby states.
Best Driving Routes to Myrtle Beach
Driving to Myrtle Beach offers flexibility and the chance to see sights along the way. Here are some common routes from key cities:
From Charlotte, NC: Take I-77 South to I-74 East, then US-74 East directly to Myrtle Beach. This route is straightforward and passes through small towns worth a quick stop.
From Atlanta, GA: Use I-85 North to I-26 East toward Charleston, then take US-17 North to Myrtle Beach. This route offers scenic views near Charleston.
From Washington, D.C.: Take I-95 South to Florence, SC, then US-76 East to Myrtle Beach. This is the fastest route avoiding heavy city traffic.
From New York City, NY: Follow I-95 South through multiple states, then switch to US-501 South near Conway, SC, leading to Myrtle Beach.
From Orlando, FL: Take I-95 North to I-20 West, then I-95 North again to US-501 North. This route crosses through several interesting towns.
Using a GPS or map app can help you avoid traffic and find the fastest route. Also, plan for rest stops and fuel breaks, especially on longer drives.
Flying to Myrtle Beach: Airport and Distance Details
If you prefer flying, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is the main airport serving the area. It offers direct flights from many U.S. cities, making it convenient for travelers.
Distance from Myrtle Beach Airport to downtown: About 5 miles, roughly a 10-minute drive.
Popular direct flight cities: Charlotte, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington, D.C.
Car rentals and shuttles: Available at the airport for easy access to hotels and attractions.
Flying can save time for travelers coming from far away. Booking flights early often gets you better prices, especially in peak seasons like summer and spring break.
Travel Tips for Visiting Myrtle Beach
Once you know how far Myrtle Beach is from your home, here are some tips to make your trip better:
Book accommodations early: Myrtle Beach is busy in summer. Hotels fill up fast, so reserve your room ahead.
Consider staying near the beach: Areas like the Grand Strand offer easy access to the ocean and many restaurants.
Pack for the weather: Summers are hot and humid. Bring sunscreen, hats, and light clothes.
Plan activities in advance: Myrtle Beach has golf courses, amusement parks, and theaters. Booking tickets early can save time.
Use local transportation: The Coast RTA bus system serves many parts of Myrtle Beach and nearby towns.
Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach offers many hotel options for different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular areas and hotel types:
Oceanfront Resorts: Stay at places like Marina Inn at Grande Dunes or Dunes Village Resort for beach views and pools.
Budget Hotels: Brands like La Quinta, Days Inn, and Comfort Inn offer affordable stays near the beach.
Family-Friendly Hotels: Look for resorts with kid-friendly pools and activities, such as Caribbean Resort & Villas.
Vacation Rentals: Renting a condo or beach house can be great for groups or longer stays.
Downtown Myrtle Beach: Choose hotels near Broadway at the Beach for nightlife and dining options.
Booking sites like Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb provide many choices with reviews to help you pick the right stay.
Driving vs. Flying: Which is Better for Your Trip?
Deciding whether to drive or fly depends on your starting point and travel style. Here are some pros and cons:
Driving: Flexible schedule, can explore stops along the way, no luggage fees. But longer travel time and possible traffic.
Flying: Faster for long distances, less tiring, often cheaper if booked early. But you need transport from the airport and may face delays.
If you are within 200 miles, driving might be easier. For longer distances, flying saves time and energy.
Exploring Nearby Attractions from Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive, Myrtle Beach has plenty to offer beyond the beach itself. Here are some nearby places worth visiting:
Brookgreen Gardens: A beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve about 15 miles south.
Historic Georgetown: Around 30 miles southwest, this town has charming shops and river tours.
Charleston, SC: About 95 miles away, known for historic sites, great food, and culture.
Wilmington, NC: Roughly 70 miles north, with a historic downtown and riverwalk.
State Parks: Myrtle Beach State Park offers nature trails and fishing piers right by the ocean.
These spots make great day trips if you want to explore more of the region.
Conclusion
Knowing how many miles Myrtle Beach is from your city helps you plan your trip better. Whether you drive or fly, Myrtle Beach is easy to reach from many parts of the U.S. The city’s beaches, attractions, and hotels make it a top choice for a coastal vacation.
Use the distance guides and travel tips here to pick the best route and stay. With the right planning, your Myrtle Beach trip will be relaxing and fun. Pack your bags and get ready for sun, sand, and great memories!
FAQs
How far is Myrtle Beach from Charlotte, NC?
Myrtle Beach is about 170 miles from Charlotte. Driving usually takes around 3 hours via I-77 and US-74 East.
Can I fly directly to Myrtle Beach from major cities?
Yes, Myrtle Beach International Airport offers direct flights from cities like Charlotte, Atlanta, New York, and Washington, D.C.
What is the best route to drive from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach?
The best route is I-85 North to I-26 East toward Charleston, then US-17 North to Myrtle Beach. It takes about 5.5 hours.
Are there budget hotels near Myrtle Beach?
Yes, budget-friendly hotels like La Quinta, Days Inn, and Comfort Inn are available near the beach and offer good value.
What nearby attractions can I visit from Myrtle Beach?
You can visit Brookgreen Gardens, Historic Georgetown, Charleston, and Myrtle Beach State Park for day trips and sightseeing.
