Closest Virginia Airports to Myrtle Beach, NC

Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, North Carolina, and wondering which airport in Virginia is closest? You’re in the right place. I’ll help you find the best airport options in Virginia if you want to fly nearby and then drive or take other transport to Myrtle Beach.

Knowing the nearest airports can save you time and money. It also helps you plan your route better. Let’s explore the closest Virginia airports to Myrtle Beach, NC, and what you should know about each option.

Understanding the Geography Between Virginia and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach sits on the coast of South Carolina, just south of the North Carolina border. Virginia lies to the north of North Carolina, so the closest Virginia airports will be in the southern part of the state.

Driving distance and travel time are key when choosing an airport. Even if an airport is in Virginia, it might be farther than some airports in North Carolina or South Carolina. Still, if you want to fly into Virginia, here are the closest options.

Closest Virginia Airports to Myrtle Beach, NC

Virginia has several airports, but only a few are close enough to Myrtle Beach to be practical. The main airports to consider are:

• Norfolk International Airport (ORF) – Located in Norfolk, Virginia, this airport is about 110 miles from Myrtle Beach. Driving takes roughly 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF) – About 115 miles from Myrtle Beach, located in Newport News, Virginia. The drive is close to 3 hours.

• Richmond International Airport (RIC) – Located in Richmond, Virginia, this airport is farther away, about 190 miles from Myrtle Beach. Driving takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.

Of these, Norfolk International Airport is the closest and most convenient Virginia airport for reaching Myrtle Beach.

Norfolk International Airport (ORF): Best Virginia Airport for Myrtle Beach

Norfolk International Airport is the top choice if you want to fly into Virginia and then travel to Myrtle Beach. Here’s why:

• It offers many domestic flights with major airlines like American, Delta, and Southwest.

• The airport is modern and easy to navigate, with good rental car options.

• The drive to Myrtle Beach is straightforward, mostly via US-17 South, a scenic coastal route.

• There are shuttle and bus services available, but renting a car is the easiest way to get to Myrtle Beach.

Norfolk International is a good balance of convenience and flight options for travelers heading to Myrtle Beach.

Other Virginia Airports: Newport News and Richmond

Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport is a smaller airport with fewer flights. It’s about the same distance as Norfolk but has fewer airline choices. It might work if you find a good deal or direct flight.

Richmond International Airport is larger and offers more flights, but it’s much farther from Myrtle Beach. The longer drive might not be ideal unless you plan to visit Richmond or other parts of Virginia first.

Comparing Virginia Airports to Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)

While Virginia airports are options, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) in South Carolina is the closest airport to the city itself. It’s just a few miles from downtown Myrtle Beach.

MYR offers many direct flights from major cities and is the easiest airport for your trip if you want to minimize driving.

• Flying directly into MYR saves you 2 to 3 hours of driving compared to Virginia airports.

• MYR has rental cars, shuttles, and taxis ready for beach travelers.

• It’s the best choice if your main destination is Myrtle Beach.

However, if you want to explore Virginia before or after your Myrtle Beach trip, flying into Norfolk or Newport News might make sense.

Travel Tips for Flying into Virginia Airports Near Myrtle Beach

If you decide to fly into a Virginia airport, here are some tips to make your trip smoother:

• Rent a car: Public transport options to Myrtle Beach from Virginia airports are limited. Renting a car gives you flexibility.

• Plan your route: Use GPS or apps like Google Maps to check traffic and road conditions on US-17 South or I-64 and US-17 routes.

• Check flight deals: Sometimes flights to Norfolk or Newport News are cheaper than Myrtle Beach, especially in off-peak seasons.

• Consider stopovers: If you want to visit Virginia Beach or Williamsburg, flying into Norfolk or Newport News lets you explore before heading south.

Driving Routes from Virginia Airports to Myrtle Beach

Here are the main driving routes from the closest Virginia airports:

• From Norfolk International Airport (ORF): Take I-64 West to US-17 South. Follow US-17 South through Chesapeake, Elizabeth City, and continue into North Carolina and South Carolina until you reach Myrtle Beach.

• From Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF): Take I-64 West to US-17 South. This route is similar to Norfolk’s but starts farther inland.

• From Richmond International Airport (RIC): Take I-95 South to US-17 South near Emporia, Virginia. Then continue south through North Carolina to Myrtle Beach.

All routes offer scenic views of the coastal plains and small towns. Plan for stops to stretch and enjoy local food along the way.

Nearby Attractions to Explore When Flying into Virginia Airports

If you have time, consider visiting these spots near Virginia airports before heading to Myrtle Beach:

• Virginia Beach: Just a short drive from Norfolk, it has beautiful beaches and a lively boardwalk.

• Historic Williamsburg: Near Newport News, famous for Colonial Williamsburg and living history museums.

• Chesapeake Bay: Great for fishing, boating, and nature walks near Norfolk.

• Richmond: Offers museums, Civil War history, and a growing food scene.

These stops add variety to your trip and break up the drive to Myrtle Beach.

Booking Flights and Rental Cars for Your Trip

Here are some tips for booking your travel:

• Compare flights to Norfolk, Newport News, Richmond, and Myrtle Beach airports to find the best price and schedule.

• Book rental cars early, especially in summer and holidays, to get better rates and availability.

• Check if your airline offers package deals with car rentals or shuttle services.

• Consider travel insurance if your trip involves multiple flights or long drives.

Planning ahead saves money and stress.

Summary: Choosing the Best Airport for Your Myrtle Beach Trip

Virginia airports near Myrtle Beach offer options if you want to combine a Virginia visit with your beach trip. Norfolk International Airport is the closest and most convenient Virginia airport for Myrtle Beach travelers.

However, flying directly into Myrtle Beach International Airport is usually the easiest and fastest choice. It depends on your travel plans, budget, and preferences.

With the right planning, you can enjoy both Virginia’s charm and the sunny beaches of Myrtle Beach.

Conclusion

When searching for the closest airport in Virginia to Myrtle Beach, Norfolk International Airport stands out as the best option. It offers good flight choices and a manageable drive to the beach. Newport News and Richmond airports are farther but may suit travelers with specific plans.

Still, if your main goal is to reach Myrtle Beach quickly, flying directly into Myrtle Beach International Airport is the simplest way. Consider your travel style and itinerary to pick the best airport for your trip. With this guide, you can confidently plan your flights and enjoy a smooth journey to the beautiful coast of Myrtle Beach.

FAQs

What is the closest Virginia airport to Myrtle Beach, NC?

The closest Virginia airport to Myrtle Beach is Norfolk International Airport (ORF), about 110 miles away with a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.

Is it better to fly into Virginia or Myrtle Beach airport?

Flying into Myrtle Beach International Airport is usually better for convenience and shorter travel time. Virginia airports are options if you want to explore Virginia first.

How long does it take to drive from Norfolk Airport to Myrtle Beach?

The drive from Norfolk International Airport to Myrtle Beach takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, mostly along US-17 South.

Are there public transportation options from Virginia airports to Myrtle Beach?

Public transport is limited. Renting a car is the best way to travel from Virginia airports to Myrtle Beach.

Can I visit Virginia Beach before going to Myrtle Beach?

Yes, Virginia Beach is close to Norfolk Airport and makes a great stop before heading south to Myrtle Beach.