What Airport Is Around Myrtle Beach? Your Travel Guide

If you are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, knowing which airport to fly into is key. Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation spot on South Carolina's coast. It offers beautiful beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions. To make your travel smooth, you need to understand your airport options and how to get from the airport to your hotel or rental.

In this guide, I will explain the main airport serving Myrtle Beach. I will also share tips on transportation, nearby airports, and how to choose the best option for your trip. Whether you want to fly direct or find cheaper flights, this article will help you plan your arrival with ease.

Main Airport Serving Myrtle Beach

The primary airport for Myrtle Beach is Myrtle Beach International Airport (airport code: MYR). It is located just a few miles northwest of the city center, making it very convenient for visitors.

• Distance to Myrtle Beach: About 5 miles from downtown and popular beach areas.

• Airport size: Medium-sized with modern facilities and several airlines.

• Airlines: Major carriers like American Airlines, Delta, United, and low-cost airlines such as Spirit and Allegiant operate here.

• Flights: Offers many nonstop flights from major U.S. cities, especially in the eastern half of the country.

Because of its location, MYR is the easiest and fastest airport to reach your hotel or rental in Myrtle Beach. It handles both domestic and seasonal charter flights, especially during the busy summer months.

Getting to and from Myrtle Beach International Airport

Once you land at MYR, you have several options to reach your accommodation or explore the area.

• Rental Cars: Many travelers rent cars at MYR. Several major rental companies operate on-site, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Renting a car is ideal if you want to explore beyond the beach or visit nearby towns.

• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are available outside the terminal. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also operate here, providing convenient door-to-door service.

• Shuttle Services: Some hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport. Check with your hotel before booking.

• Public Transportation: The Coast RTA bus system serves Myrtle Beach but has limited routes to the airport. It’s less convenient for tourists with luggage.

Choosing the right transportation depends on your budget and travel plans. For families or groups, renting a car or hotel shuttle is often best. Solo travelers may prefer rideshares for flexibility.

Nearby Airports to Myrtle Beach

If you cannot find a suitable flight to Myrtle Beach International Airport, there are other airports within driving distance. These can be good alternatives, especially if you want to compare prices or flight times.

• Charleston International Airport (CHS): Located about 95 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach, Charleston’s airport is larger and offers more flight options. It is about a 2-hour drive from Myrtle Beach.

• Florence Regional Airport (FLO): Around 60 miles west of Myrtle Beach, Florence is smaller but can be convenient for some travelers. It has limited commercial flights.

• Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP): About 110 miles northwest, GSP is a bigger airport with many flights. It is roughly a 2.5-hour drive to Myrtle Beach.

• Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV): Located about 130 miles south, SAV is another option but requires a longer drive.

While these airports offer more flight choices, keep in mind the extra travel time and transportation costs to reach Myrtle Beach. Renting a car is usually necessary if you fly into these airports.

Tips for Booking Flights to Myrtle Beach

To get the best flights and prices, keep these tips in mind:

• Book early: Myrtle Beach is popular, especially in summer and holidays. Booking flights early can save money.

• Use flexible dates: Check flights a few days before or after your planned trip to find cheaper options.

• Compare airports: Look at flights to MYR and nearby airports to find the best deal.

• Consider low-cost carriers: Airlines like Spirit and Allegiant often have good deals to Myrtle Beach.

• Check baggage fees: Some budget airlines charge extra for bags. Factor this into your total cost.

Using flight comparison websites and signing up for fare alerts can help you spot deals. Also, consider flying mid-week, which is often cheaper than weekends.

Where to Stay Near Myrtle Beach Airport

If you want to stay close to the airport, there are several hotels within a short drive. This is handy if you have an early flight or late arrival.

• Hilton Garden Inn Myrtle Beach Airport: A popular choice with free airport shuttle and comfortable rooms.

• Home2 Suites by Hilton: Offers suites with kitchenettes, good for families or longer stays.

• Fairfield Inn & Suites: Budget-friendly with free breakfast and shuttle service.

• Residence Inn by Marriott: Spacious suites and close to the airport.

These hotels provide easy access to the airport and are a short drive from Myrtle Beach’s main attractions. If you prefer to stay near the beach, many hotels and resorts are located 5 to 10 miles east of the airport along the coastline.

Transportation Options from Nearby Airports

If you choose to fly into a nearby airport, you will need to plan your ground transportation carefully.

• Charleston International Airport (CHS): You can rent a car or take a shuttle service. Some companies offer private transfers to Myrtle Beach.

• Florence Regional Airport (FLO): Rental cars are available, but public transport is limited.

• Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP): Car rentals are common. Bus services to Myrtle Beach are rare.

• Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV): Renting a car is the best option for the 2+ hour drive.

Plan your route ahead and check rental car availability. Booking your car in advance can save money and ensure you get the vehicle you want.

Seasonal Flight Patterns to Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach sees more flights during peak tourist seasons. Airlines add extra routes in spring and summer to meet demand.

• Winter months have fewer flights but sometimes better prices.

• Summer and holidays bring more direct flights from northern cities.

• Charter flights and vacation packages increase in spring and summer.

If you travel off-season, you may find fewer flight options but less crowded beaches and attractions. Planning ahead helps you balance convenience and cost.

Tips for Navigating Myrtle Beach International Airport

The airport is easy to navigate, but here are some tips to make your experience smoother:

• Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights.

• Use the airport’s free Wi-Fi to check flight updates.

• Check baggage rules before packing to avoid fees.

• Follow signs for rental car shuttles if you booked a car.

• Use the airport’s information desk if you need help.

MYR is a traveler-friendly airport with helpful staff and clear signage. It usually has short security lines compared to larger airports.

Exploring Myrtle Beach After Arrival

Once you arrive, you can enjoy many activities and attractions near the airport and city.

• Beaches: The main beach is just a short drive east. It offers soft sand, boardwalks, and water sports.

• Golf: Myrtle Beach is famous for golf courses, many within 10 miles of the airport.

• Shopping and Dining: Broadway at the Beach is a popular shopping and entertainment area near the airport.

• Family Attractions: Ripley’s Aquarium and amusement parks are close by.

Having a rental car helps you explore these spots easily. If you stay near the airport, you can reach the beach and downtown in about 15 minutes.

Conclusion

Flying into Myrtle Beach International Airport is the best choice for most travelers visiting Myrtle Beach. It is close, convenient, and served by many airlines. You can find easy transportation options like rental cars, taxis, and shuttles to reach your hotel or the beach.

If you want more flight options or better prices, consider nearby airports like Charleston or Florence, but remember the longer drive. Planning your flight and ground transport ahead will make your trip smoother. With this guide, you can confidently book your flight and enjoy your Myrtle Beach vacation.

FAQs

What is the closest airport to Myrtle Beach?

The closest airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), about 5 miles from downtown and the beach area. It is the main airport serving the city.

Are there direct flights to Myrtle Beach International Airport?

Yes, many airlines offer direct flights to MYR from major U.S. cities, especially on the East Coast. Seasonal flights increase during spring and summer.

Can I rent a car at Myrtle Beach International Airport?

Yes, several rental car companies operate at MYR, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Renting a car is a popular option for visitors.

What other airports can I use to get to Myrtle Beach?

Nearby airports include Charleston International (CHS), Florence Regional (FLO), Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP), and Savannah/Hilton Head (SAV). They require longer drives to Myrtle Beach.

Is there public transportation from Myrtle Beach International Airport?

Public transportation options are limited. The Coast RTA bus system serves Myrtle Beach but has minimal service to the airport. Taxis and rideshares are more common.