Closest International Airport to Myrtle Beach

If you are planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, knowing the closest international airport can make your travel smoother. Myrtle Beach is a popular beach destination with miles of sandy shores and many attractions. Having easy access to an international airport helps you save time and enjoy your vacation without hassle.

In this article, we will explore the nearest international airports to Myrtle Beach. We will also share tips on transportation, airport facilities, and how to choose the best airport for your trip. Whether you are coming from abroad or another state, this guide will help you plan your arrival and start your vacation right.

Understanding Myrtle Beach's Airport Options

Myrtle Beach itself has a regional airport called Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). Despite its name, it mainly serves domestic flights. It has limited international service, mostly seasonal or charter flights. For travelers looking for more international flight options, other airports nearby might be better choices.

Here are some key points about Myrtle Beach International Airport:

• Located about 5 miles northwest of downtown Myrtle Beach.

• Offers direct flights from many U.S. cities.

• Limited international flights, mainly from Canada during peak seasons.

• Small and easy to navigate, with basic amenities.

While MYR is convenient, many travelers prefer to look at larger airports nearby for more flight options and international connections.

Closest Major International Airports to Myrtle Beach

If you want more international flight options, here are the closest major international airports to Myrtle Beach. These airports offer many airlines, direct flights from Europe, Canada, and other countries, and better facilities.

1. Charleston International Airport (CHS)

Charleston International Airport is about 95 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach. It is the closest major international airport with a wide range of flights.

• Located in Charleston, South Carolina.

• Offers nonstop international flights to destinations like London and seasonal flights to Canada.

• Served by major airlines such as American, Delta, and British Airways.

• Good rental car options and shuttle services to Myrtle Beach.

• About a 2-hour drive from Myrtle Beach, making it a practical choice for international travelers.

2. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a large airport located about 170 miles northwest of Myrtle Beach. It is a major hub for American Airlines and offers many international flights.

• Located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

• Provides nonstop flights to Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

• One of the busiest airports in the Southeast U.S.

• Offers extensive rental car services and ground transportation options.

• Driving time to Myrtle Beach is about 3 to 3.5 hours, or you can take a connecting flight or shuttle.

3. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Raleigh-Durham International Airport is about 180 miles north of Myrtle Beach. It is a well-connected airport with growing international service.

• Located in Raleigh, North Carolina.

• Offers flights to Europe, Canada, and Mexico.

• Served by airlines like Delta, United, and Air Canada.

• Good rental car and shuttle options to Myrtle Beach.

• About a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Myrtle Beach.

4. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is about 100 miles south of Myrtle Beach. It is smaller but offers some international flights.

• Located in Savannah, Georgia.

• Seasonal flights to Canada and some Caribbean destinations.

• Served by airlines like Delta and Southwest.

• Rental car services available for the drive to Myrtle Beach.

• About a 2 to 2.5-hour drive from Myrtle Beach.

Choosing the Best Airport for Your Trip

When deciding which airport to use for your Myrtle Beach trip, consider these factors:

• Flight availability: Check if your preferred airline flies into the airport.

• International connections: Look for direct flights or easy connections from your home country.

• Travel time to Myrtle Beach: Consider the driving or shuttle time from the airport to your hotel.

• Transportation options: Check for rental cars, shuttles, or public transport availability.

• Airport amenities: Larger airports often have more dining and shopping options.

For example, if you want the shortest travel time, Myrtle Beach International Airport is best for domestic flights. For more international options, Charleston International Airport is the closest with direct international flights.

Transportation from Airports to Myrtle Beach

Once you arrive at your chosen airport, you will need to get to Myrtle Beach. Here are common transportation options:

Rental Cars

Renting a car is the most flexible way to reach Myrtle Beach. All major airports nearby have rental car centers with many companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis. Driving allows you to explore the area at your own pace.

Shuttle Services

Some airports offer shuttle or private transfer services to Myrtle Beach. You can book these in advance for convenience. Shuttle services are common from Charleston and Charlotte airports.

Bus and Public Transport

Public transportation options are limited between these airports and Myrtle Beach. Bus services may be available but can be slow and less convenient.

Taxi and Rideshare

Taxis and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft operate at most airports. This option is good for short distances but can be costly for longer drives from airports like Charlotte or Raleigh.

Tips for Booking Flights and Airports

Here are some tips to help you book your flights and choose the best airport:

• Compare flight prices for all nearby airports to find the best deal.

• Check flight schedules and connections carefully, especially for international flights.

• Book your rental car early if you plan to drive from the airport.

• Consider flight arrival times to avoid late-night drives to Myrtle Beach.

• Look for seasonal flight options, especially from Canadian airports during summer.

Exploring Myrtle Beach After Arrival

After you arrive and reach Myrtle Beach, you will find many things to enjoy. The area is famous for its beaches, golf courses, and family-friendly attractions.

• Visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Enjoy water sports like jet skiing, fishing, and parasailing.

• Explore nearby state parks and nature reserves.

• Try local seafood at oceanfront restaurants.

• Play golf at world-class courses in the area.

Conclusion

Knowing the closest international airport to Myrtle Beach helps you plan your trip better. While Myrtle Beach International Airport serves many domestic flights, Charleston International Airport is the nearest major airport with international connections. Charlotte Douglas and Raleigh-Durham airports offer even more flight options but are farther away.

Choosing the right airport depends on your flight needs, budget, and travel preferences. Once you arrive, transportation options like rental cars and shuttles make it easy to reach Myrtle Beach. With the right planning, your trip to this beautiful beach city will be smooth and enjoyable.

FAQs

What is the closest international airport to Myrtle Beach?

The closest major international airport to Myrtle Beach is Charleston International Airport (CHS), about 95 miles away. It offers several international flights and good connections.

Does Myrtle Beach International Airport have international flights?

Myrtle Beach International Airport mainly serves domestic flights. It has limited seasonal international flights, mostly from Canada during summer.

How far is Charlotte Douglas International Airport from Myrtle Beach?

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is about 170 miles from Myrtle Beach, roughly a 3 to 3.5-hour drive depending on traffic.

What transportation options are available from Charleston International Airport to Myrtle Beach?

You can rent a car, book a shuttle service, or use rideshare apps to travel from Charleston International Airport to Myrtle Beach, about a 2-hour drive away.

Is it better to fly into Myrtle Beach or a nearby international airport?

If you want direct international flights, flying into Charleston International Airport or Charlotte Douglas International Airport may be better. For domestic flights and convenience, Myrtle Beach International Airport is ideal.