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Local Transportation

Local Transportation

South Carolina, USA

Public Transportation: Coast RTA

Coast RTA is the main public bus system serving Horry County, encompassing Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Surfside Beach. It connects areas along the Grand Strand, offering a budget-friendly travel method.

Route maps and schedules appear on the Coast RTA website (CoastRTA.com) and at major bus stops. Google Maps also integrates Coast RTA schedules for transit directions.

Routes & Fares

  • Tourist Routes: The Grand Strand route runs along Ocean Boulevard, connecting hotels and attractions.
  • Main Transfer Hubs: Downtown Transit Center and central points along Ocean Boulevard.
  • Single Ride: $1.50 (exact cash fare). Day Pass: $5 (unlimited rides). Weekly Pass: $20.
  • A Coast RTA bus provides public transport in Myrtle Beach.

Hours & Frequency

Bus services generally operate from early morning to late evening. Frequency varies by route and time of day. Check specific schedules for accuracy.

Accessibility

All Coast RTA buses are wheelchair accessible. They feature ramps or lifts and designated seating areas for passengers using wheelchairs.

Navigation Tips

Use Google Maps for directions. Have exact change or a day pass. Plan extra time as bus service can be slower than driving.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Taxis
  • Licensed taxis are yellow or clearly marked; meters calculate fare.
  • Hailing is less common; find taxis at designated stands or by calling local companies.
  • Fares are metered (base + per-mile charge). Confirm credit card acceptance.
Ride-Sharing
  • Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular for convenience.
  • Apps request rides, provide fare estimates, and electronic payment.
  • Verify driver details (name, car, plate) match app before entry. Share trip status.

General Rental Options

Car Rentals

For maximum flexibility in exploring the Grand Strand.

Motorcycles

Specialized shops for those with endorsements.

Bicycles

Popular for boardwalk and neighborhood exploration.

Golf Carts

Common in specific communities for short distances.

Car Rental & Other Vehicles

Car rental procedures, requirements, and information on other vehicle types for local travel.

Car Rental Details

  • Requirements: Minimum age 21 (under 25 may see surcharge), valid driver's license, major credit card.
  • Companies: Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty.
  • Booking in advance is good, especially during peak season, for better rates. DiscoverCars.com a comparison option.
  • Traffic may be heavy on US-17, US-501, Ocean Boulevard during peak times.

Other Vehicle Options

  • Motorcycle & Scooter: Specialized local shops. Motorcycle endorsement usually applies.
  • Bicycle Rentals: Several shops rent by hour/day/week. Good for boardwalk, neighborhoods.
  • Golf Cart Rentals: Popular in North Myrtle Beach for short-distance travel. Check local ordinances.
  • Electric scooters are becoming common for short distances.

Driving Laws & Parking

  • Driving Laws: Standard U.S. Laws apply. Drive on right. Speed limits enforced. Seatbelts mandatory.
  • Cell phone use restricted while driving; hands-free devices preferred.
  • Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained. Expect heavy traffic on major arteries.
  • Awareness of pedestrian/bicycle traffic in tourist areas.
  • Parking: Plentiful paid lots/garages along Ocean Blvd and at attractions.
  • Parking fees range from $10-$20+ per day or hourly. Metered street parking available.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach State Park.

Walking Tour Options

Self-guided tours of Boardwalk. Organized guided tours less common than in historic cities.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Limited designated bike lanes. Paved trails in state parks. Wear a Helmet, use lights at night.

Specialized Transportation

Myrtle Beach offers some specialized transportation options that elevate the tourist experience, though they are not for main transit.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

  • Tour Buses: Local operators offer sightseeing bus tours past landmarks and attractions.
  • Usually single-route tours, not typically "hop-on-hop-off" like larger cities.
  • Boat Taxis: No formal boat taxi system exists in Myrtle Beach.
  • Water Transportation: Private boat tours, fishing charters, dolphin-watching cruises are recreational.

Accessibility Services

  • Myrtle Beach works to provide accessibility. Most newer attractions, hotels, and public spaces comply with ADA.
  • Many beach access points offer accessible ramps.
  • Some beach towns provide Beach wheelchairs for loan.
  • Coast RTA buses are wheelchair accessible.

Local Driving Tips

Traffic Navigation

Expect heavy traffic during peak season and rush hours, especially on major arteries.

Plan extra travel time.

Parking Strategies

Utilize paid parking lots and garages. Many hotels feature their own parking facilities.

Check signs for metered street parking restrictions.

Pedestrian Awareness

Be mindful of increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic in tourist zones and along Ocean Boulevard.

Drive cautiously in crowded areas.

Rental Car Booking Tips

Advance Booking
  • Book your rental car well in advance, especially for summer travel.
  • Availability lessens, and prices heighten during peak season.
  • Consider comparing options on platforms like DiscoverCars.com.
Picking Up Your Car
  • Car rental counters at MYR are located inside the terminal building.
  • Have your driver's license and credit card ready.
  • Know your destination address for quick GPS setup.

Driving & Traffic Cautions

  • Expect heavy traffic on main roads during peak times and holidays.
  • Allow extra travel time for trips, specifically during summer.
  • Road conditions are good, but vigilance for increased tourist traffic is wise.
  • Parking at popular spots fills quickly; plan ahead or use ride-sharing.
  • Be mindful of school zones and residential speed limits.
  • Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, especially on Ocean Boulevard.
  • Avoid distracted driving. Cell phone use may lead to fines.
  • Heed signage for specific parking regulations and towing zones.

Final Local Transit Notes

Choose your local transportation based on your itinerary and budget. Cars offer flexibility for wider exploration, while public transport and walking suit specific areas.

Being prepared for local conditions leads to a more enjoyable experience.