Distance from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach: Travel Guide
Discover the distance from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach, travel tips, best routes, and places to stay along the way.
Planning a trip from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach? Whether you’re heading for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, knowing the distance and travel options can help you plan better. I’ll guide you through the miles between these two popular beach destinations and share tips to make your journey smooth and fun.
Both Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach are well-loved for their sandy shores and lively boardwalks. Traveling between them is common for beach lovers in the Southeast. Let’s explore how far apart they are, the best ways to get there, and what you can do along the route.
How Many Miles from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach?
The driving distance from Virginia Beach, Virginia, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is about 95 to 110 miles, depending on the route you choose. Most travelers take a direct route along the coast, which usually covers around 100 miles.
This distance typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by car without heavy traffic. The route is mostly highway driving, making it a straightforward trip for most drivers.
Shortest route: Around 95 miles via US-17 South, taking about 2 hours.
Alternate route: Around 110 miles via I-64 West and US-17 South, which can take closer to 2.5 hours.
Keep in mind that travel time can vary with traffic, especially during weekends and holidays when both beaches are popular.
Best Routes to Drive from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach
There are two main routes you can take to drive between these beach cities. Each has its own benefits depending on your preferences for scenery and stops.
1. US-17 South Coastal Route
This is the most common and scenic route. It follows the coast through small towns and offers views of marshlands and waterways.
Starts in Virginia Beach, heading south on US-17.
Passes through towns like Chesapeake, Elizabeth City, and Edenton.
Crosses the North Carolina border near the Outer Banks area.
Continues through Wilmington, NC, a great spot for a break or meal.
Ends in Myrtle Beach, SC.
This route is about 95 miles and takes roughly 2 hours. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed drive with chances to explore local towns.
2. I-64 West and US-17 South Route
This route is a bit longer but uses the interstate for part of the trip, which can be faster if traffic is light.
Start on I-64 West from Virginia Beach.
Connect to US-17 South near Chesapeake.
Follow US-17 South through North Carolina towns.
Arrive in Myrtle Beach.
This route covers about 110 miles and takes around 2.5 hours. It’s a good option if you prefer highway driving over smaller roads.
Travel Tips for the Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach Trip
To make your trip enjoyable and stress-free, consider these tips:
Check traffic reports: Weekends and summer holidays can cause delays, especially near beach towns.
Plan stops: Wilmington, NC, is a great place to stretch, eat, or visit attractions like the Riverwalk or beaches.
Fuel up: Gas stations are available along the route, but some stretches have fewer options.
Bring snacks and water: Especially if you want to avoid long stops.
Use a GPS or map app: To get real-time updates on traffic and road conditions.
Where to Stay Along the Route
If you want to break up the drive or explore more, there are several towns with good lodging options.
Virginia Beach
Hotels: Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, The Westin Virginia Beach Town Center.
Why stay: Enjoy the lively boardwalk, restaurants, and beach activities before you start your trip.
Wilmington, North Carolina
Hotels: Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Courtyard by Marriott Wilmington Downtown.
Why stay: Historic downtown, riverfront dining, and access to nearby beaches like Wrightsville Beach.
Myrtle Beach
Hotels: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, Dunes Village Resort.
Why stay: Famous for its wide beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions.
Other Travel Options Between Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach
If you don’t want to drive, there are a few other ways to travel between these two cities.
Bus Services
While there is no direct bus line between Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach, you can use Greyhound or regional bus services with transfers in cities like Norfolk or Wilmington. This option takes longer and requires planning but is budget-friendly.
Rideshare or Carpool
Apps like Uber or Lyft may not cover the full distance affordably. However, carpooling through platforms like BlaBlaCar or local ride boards can be an option if you find someone traveling the same route.
Flying
There are no direct commercial flights between Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach due to the short distance. Both cities have regional airports, but flying is not practical for this trip.
What to Do in Virginia Beach Before You Leave
Before you hit the road, take some time to enjoy Virginia Beach’s highlights.
Virginia Beach Boardwalk: A 3-mile oceanfront walkway with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
First Landing State Park: Hiking trails and beach access in a historic park.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center: Family-friendly exhibits and animal encounters.
Top Attractions to Visit in Myrtle Beach
Once you arrive, Myrtle Beach offers plenty to explore beyond the beach.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Shops, arcades, and the SkyWheel observation ride.
Broadway at the Beach: A large entertainment complex with dining, shopping, and nightlife.
Golf Courses: Myrtle Beach is famous for its many golf resorts and courses.
Planning Your Return Trip
When heading back to Virginia Beach, you can take the same routes or explore a different path for variety. Consider stopping at places you missed on the way down or trying local eateries along the coast.
Remember to check weather and traffic updates before you leave. Summer storms or holiday traffic can affect your travel time.
Conclusion
The distance from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach is about 100 miles, making it an easy and popular trip for beach lovers. Driving usually takes 2 to 2.5 hours, with scenic routes along the coast.
You have options to stop in charming towns like Wilmington or enjoy the beaches and attractions in both cities. With some planning, your trip can be smooth, fun, and full of great memories. Whether you drive straight through or explore along the way, the journey between these two beach destinations is a great part of your vacation.
FAQs
How long does it take to drive from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach?
Driving usually takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and the route you choose. The most common route is around 100 miles along US-17 South.
What is the best route to drive between Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach?
The US-17 South coastal route is popular for its scenery and small towns. Alternatively, you can take I-64 West then US-17 South for a slightly longer but faster highway drive.
Are there any good places to stop between Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach?
Yes, Wilmington, North Carolina, is a great stop with restaurants, historic sites, and beaches. Smaller towns like Edenton and Elizabeth City also offer charming breaks.
Can I take a bus from Virginia Beach to Myrtle Beach?
There is no direct bus service. You can use Greyhound or regional buses with transfers, but it takes longer and requires planning.
Is it better to fly or drive between Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach?
Driving is the best option due to the short distance. There are no direct flights, and flying would be costly and time-consuming compared to a 2-hour drive.
