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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

South Carolina, USA

Air Travel

Myrtle Beach International Airport MYR

MYR is the main airport for the entire Myrtle Beach area, situated a few miles southwest of downtown. It handles both commercial and general aviation traffic.

Airlines Serving MYR

  • Major carriers: Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines.
  • Direct flights from numerous major and regional U.S. Cities.
  • Seasonal routes expand significantly during peak summer.

Flight Details & Airport Services

MYR lacks direct international flights from major global hubs. International travelers typically connect through a major U.S. Gateway airport (e.g., ATL, CLT, JFK/EWR, MIA) before a domestic flight to MYR.

Availability & Facilities

  • Flight prices higher during peak summer (June-August) and holidays.
  • Prices generally lower during off-season (winter months).
  • Airport facilities include car rental, dining, retail shops, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi.

Rental Cars

Most convenient for exploring the Grand Strand, with on-site counters at MYR.

Taxis & Ride-Share

Readily available outside the MYR terminal. Uber and Lyft operate from MYR.

Hotel Shuttles

Some hotels offer complimentary airport shuttle services; check in advance.

Additional Airport Connections

Connecting to MYR

  • International travelers connect through major U.S. Gateway airports.
  • Booking flights well in advance, notably for summer, secures better rates.
  • Private shuttle or limousine services are pre-bookable for personalized transfer.
  • Coast RTA bus route 15S serves the airport, connecting to downtown Myrtle Beach.

Airport Facilities at a Glance

  • Variety of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants.
  • Retail shops for last-minute purchases or souvenirs.
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
  • ATMs available for cash withdrawals.

Airport Facilities Summary

Dining Options

Casual eateries to sit-down restaurants for pre-flight meals.

Shopping & Retail

Last-minute items and souvenirs. Duty-free not applicable for domestic travel.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi access across the terminal building.

Land Transportation

Driving to Myrtle Beach

Many visitors choose to drive to Myrtle Beach due to its accessibility and the convenience of having a car for local exploration.

Road Network & Requirements

  • Easily accessible via major U.S. Highways: US-17 (north-south) and US-501 (inland). SC-31 bypasses US-17 traffic.
  • A valid driver's license from your home state or country is mandatory.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is good for international visitors whose licenses are not in English or lack a photograph.

Bus & Train Connections

For those preferring not to drive, bus and train options reach the wider region, with connecting travel to Myrtle Beach.

Public Transit Details

  • No Amtrak passenger rail service directly reaches Myrtle Beach. Closest stations: Florence, SC (FLN) or Charleston, SC (CHS).
  • Greyhound provides bus service to the Myrtle Beach area. The station is located off US-501.
  • From Florence or Charleston, a connecting bus or car ride to Myrtle Beach is necessary.

Car Rental Essentials

Car rental offers freedom to explore. Understand the procedures and requirements before booking.

Requirements & Companies

  • Minimum age for renting a car is typically 21. Drivers under 25 may see a daily surcharge.
  • A valid driver's license and a major credit card in the renter's name are mandatory.
  • Major rental car companies operate at MYR and have additional area offices (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty).

Driving Conditions & Safety

Myrtle Beach roads are generally well-maintained. Traffic patterns and local laws deserve your attention.

Traffic & Road Rules

  • Traffic can be heavy during peak summer months, weekends, and near major attractions.
  • Standard U.S. Driving laws apply: drive on the right, observe speed limits, seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Cell phone use while driving is restricted; hands-free devices are preferred.

Other Vehicle Rentals

  • Motorcycle rentals require a valid motorcycle endorsement on your license.
  • Scooter rentals are available from specialized local shops.
  • Check local laws regarding Helmet use for motorcycles and scooters.
  • Several shops offer Bicycle rentals by hour, day, or week.
  • Golf cart rentals prove popular in some communities (e.g., North Myrtle Beach).
  • Verify local ordinances for golf cart driving areas, as rules differ.

Sea/River Arrivals

No Major Sea/River Ports

Myrtle Beach mainly serves as a drive-to or fly-to destination. Sea or river arrivals are not standard modes of tourist transportation for direct entry into the city.

Ferry & Cruise Context

  • Myrtle Beach is not a major cruise port for passenger departures or arrivals.
  • No regular ferry services exist for passenger transport to or from Myrtle Beach.
  • Cruise ships do not dock directly in Myrtle Beach.

Intracoastal Waterway Access

The Intracoastal Waterway runs nearby, but its use differs from commercial passenger transport to the city itself.

Waterway Use

  • No commercial river transportation operates for tourist arrival or departure.
  • The Intracoastal Waterway is used mainly by private vessels and recreational boats.
  • Private boat tours, fishing charters, and dolphin-watching cruises are available from various marinas.

By Air

MYR is the main airport, with extensive domestic flights.

By Road

Major highways connect the city, a popular self-drive option.

By Sea/River

Not a main mode of arrival for general tourists.

Departure Information

Airport Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) to secure a stress-free exit.

Timing & Tips

  • Arrive at MYR at least 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled domestic flight departure.
  • Allow extra time for rental car return (shuttle to terminal).
  • Check in online in advance for time saving.

Bus Departure Procedures

If departing by long-distance bus, a few simple steps ensure a smooth exit.

Timing & Tips

  • Arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
  • This allows time for checking bags and boarding.
  • Have your ticket or confirmation ready for presentation.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Dining Options

Enjoy a last meal or snack before your flight.

Retail Shops

Pick up last-minute souvenirs or travel necessities.

Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi access supports continued connectivity.

Departure Tip

For airport departures, check your airline's app or website for real-time flight status and security wait times. This aids your arrival at the airport.