Closest Airports to Myrtle Beach, North Carolina

If you’re planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, North Carolina, knowing which airport to fly into can make your travel easier. Myrtle Beach is a popular coastal destination with beautiful beaches, golf courses, and family attractions. Choosing the right airport helps you save time and enjoy your vacation from the moment you arrive.

In this guide, we’ll explore the airports near Myrtle Beach, their distances, and travel options. We’ll also share tips on how to get from the airport to your hotel or rental. Whether you want the closest airport or more flight choices, this article will help you plan your trip smoothly.

Airports Near Myrtle Beach, North Carolina

Myrtle Beach is located on the coast of South Carolina, but it is close to the North Carolina border. While there is a Myrtle Beach International Airport in South Carolina, travelers often ask about airports near Myrtle Beach, North Carolina, especially if they plan to explore the northern areas or nearby cities.

Here are the main airports you can consider when visiting Myrtle Beach and the surrounding North Carolina region:

• Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) – Located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, this is the closest and most convenient airport for the area. It serves many domestic flights and some seasonal international flights.

• Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY) – About 120 miles northwest of Myrtle Beach, this airport serves Fayetteville, North Carolina, and offers regional flights mainly through American Airlines and Delta.

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – Around 190 miles west of Myrtle Beach, this is a major hub with many domestic and international flights. It’s a good option if you want more flight choices or are combining your trip with a visit to Charlotte.

• Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) – Located about 210 miles northwest, this airport serves the Research Triangle area and offers many flights nationwide and internationally.

• Florence Regional Airport (FLO) – Approximately 60 miles north of Myrtle Beach, this smaller airport in South Carolina offers limited commercial flights but can be convenient for some travelers.

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): Your Best Choice

For most travelers visiting Myrtle Beach, the Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is the best option. It is just a few miles from the beach and downtown area. The airport is easy to navigate and offers several amenities for travelers.

Here’s why MYR is ideal:

• Located just 5 miles from Myrtle Beach’s main attractions and hotels.

• Served by airlines like American, Delta, United, and Allegiant Air.

• Offers car rentals, taxis, and shuttle services right at the terminal.

• Smaller size means shorter wait times and quick baggage claim.

Booking a flight to MYR lets you start your vacation quickly without long drives from distant airports.

Traveling from Nearby Airports to Myrtle Beach

If you choose to fly into a nearby airport in North Carolina, such as Fayetteville Regional or Charlotte Douglas, you will need to plan ground transportation to reach Myrtle Beach. Here are some options:

• Car Rental: Renting a car is the most flexible way to travel. The drive from Fayetteville Regional Airport to Myrtle Beach takes about 2.5 hours. From Charlotte Douglas, expect around a 3.5-hour drive.

• Shuttle Services: Some private shuttle companies offer rides from Charlotte or Fayetteville to Myrtle Beach. Booking in advance is recommended.

• Bus: Greyhound and other bus services connect Charlotte and Fayetteville to Myrtle Beach, but schedules may be limited.

Consider your itinerary and comfort when choosing an airport farther from Myrtle Beach.

Tips for Booking Flights to Myrtle Beach Area

Here are some practical tips to help you find the best flights and airports for your trip:

• Check flights to MYR first for convenience and proximity.

• Compare prices with flights to Charlotte Douglas or Raleigh-Durham if you want more airline options.

• Look for direct flights to reduce travel time.

• Book early during peak seasons like summer and holidays to get better rates.

• Consider car rental costs and travel time if flying into a farther airport.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach, North Carolina Area

Once you arrive, you’ll find many places to stay near Myrtle Beach. The area offers everything from budget motels to luxury resorts. Here are some popular neighborhoods and hotel options:

• Downtown Myrtle Beach: Close to restaurants, shops, and the boardwalk. Hotels like the Marriott Resort & Spa and Hilton Garden Inn are popular choices.

• North Myrtle Beach: Quieter beaches and golf courses. Look for resorts like the Caribbean Resort & Villas or the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes.

• Surfside Beach: Family-friendly with a relaxed vibe. Hotels include the Surfside Beach Oceanfront Hotel and the Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort.

• Conway, NC: About 15 miles inland, Conway offers budget-friendly hotels and a small-town feel.

Choose your stay based on your interests and how close you want to be to the beach or local attractions.

Getting Around Myrtle Beach and Nearby North Carolina

After you land and settle in, you’ll want to explore the area. Here are ways to get around:

• Rental Car: The easiest way to explore Myrtle Beach and nearby towns. Many rental companies operate at MYR.

• Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft operate in Myrtle Beach, useful for short trips.

• Public Transit: The Coast RTA offers bus service around Myrtle Beach and nearby areas.

• Biking and Walking: Many beach areas have bike rentals and walkable boardwalks.

Popular Attractions Near Myrtle Beach, North Carolina

While Myrtle Beach is in South Carolina, its proximity to North Carolina means you can easily visit attractions across the border. Here are some highlights:

• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively oceanfront area with shops, restaurants, and the SkyWheel.

• Brookgreen Gardens: Located south of Myrtle Beach, this sculpture garden and wildlife preserve is a must-see.

• Wilmington, NC: About 70 miles north, Wilmington offers historic sites and riverfront dining.

• Carolina Beach State Park: Near Wilmington, great for hiking and nature lovers.

• North Carolina Beaches: Topsail Island and other barrier islands are within a 2-hour drive.

Planning Your Trip: Final Advice

Choosing the right airport near Myrtle Beach, North Carolina, depends on your travel needs. For most visitors, Myrtle Beach International Airport is the best choice. It’s close, convenient, and offers many flight options.

If you want to explore more of North Carolina or find cheaper flights, consider Fayetteville or Charlotte airports. Just plan your ground transportation ahead. With the right airport and travel plan, you’ll enjoy a smooth trip to this beautiful coastal region.

Conclusion

When visiting Myrtle Beach, North Carolina, the closest airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport in South Carolina. It offers easy access to the beach and local attractions. However, other airports in North Carolina like Fayetteville Regional and Charlotte Douglas provide alternatives with more flight options.

Think about your travel preferences, budget, and itinerary when choosing your airport. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the area fully. With this guide, you can pick the best airport and enjoy your Myrtle Beach trip with confidence.

FAQs

What is the closest airport to Myrtle Beach, North Carolina?

The closest airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) in South Carolina, about 5 miles from Myrtle Beach’s main areas.

Can I fly into a North Carolina airport to visit Myrtle Beach?

Yes, Fayetteville Regional Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina are options, but they are 2 to 3.5 hours away by car.

Are there direct flights to Myrtle Beach International Airport?

Yes, several airlines offer direct flights to MYR from major U.S. cities, especially during peak travel seasons.

What transportation options are available from Myrtle Beach International Airport?

You can use rental cars, taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber, and shuttle buses to get around from MYR.

Is it better to rent a car when visiting Myrtle Beach?

Renting a car is recommended for flexibility and ease of exploring Myrtle Beach and nearby areas, especially if flying into airports farther away.