Introduction
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a popular vacation destination known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and vibrant entertainment scene. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, understanding your transportation options is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip. This comprehensive guide will explore all aspects of Myrtle Beach transportation, from air travel to public transit, road access, and even stroller rentals for families with young children.
Air Travel to Myrtle Beach
For many visitors, the journey to Myrtle Beach begins with a flight. The primary airport serving the area is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), conveniently located just three miles southwest of the city center. This modern facility offers a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable start or end to your vacation.
Airlines and Destinations
Myrtle Beach International Airport is served by several major airlines, including:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Allegiant Air
- Frontier Airlines
These carriers offer direct flights to and from numerous cities across the United States, with increased service during the peak summer season. Some popular direct flight routes include:
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Charlotte (CLT)
- Chicago (ORD/MDW)
- New York (LGA/JFK)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Washington D.C. (DCA/IAD)
Airport Transportation Options
Once you’ve landed at MYR, you have several options for reaching your final destination:
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Rental Cars: Major car rental companies have counters at the airport, offering a convenient option for those who prefer to drive themselves.
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Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area.
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Shuttle Services: Many hotels offer complimentary shuttle services for their guests. Check with your accommodation provider for availability.
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Public Transportation: The Coast RTA operates bus routes that connect the airport to various parts of the Grand Strand.
Public Transit in Myrtle Beach
For those who prefer not to drive or are looking for an economical way to explore the area, Myrtle Beach offers a robust public transportation system. The Coast RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) provides bus services throughout the Grand Strand, including Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, and Conway.
Coast RTA Bus Services
The Coast RTA operates several fixed routes that cover major attractions, shopping centers, and residential areas. Some key features of the bus service include:
- Affordable fares with options for single rides, day passes, and multi-day passes
- Wheelchair-accessible buses
- Bike racks on all buses for cyclists
- Real-time bus tracking through the Coast RTA mobile app
Popular routes include:
- Route 7: Ocean Boulevard, connecting major beachfront attractions
- Route 10: Myrtle Beach International Airport to Market Common
- Route 15: Coastal Grand Mall to Surfside Beach
For a detailed look at routes, schedules, and fares, visit the Myrtle Beach public transit guide.
Entertainment Shuttles
During the peak season, several entertainment shuttles operate in Myrtle Beach, providing transportation to popular attractions:
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Broadway at the Beach Shuttle: A free service connecting various points within this large entertainment complex.
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Barefoot Landing Shuttle: Offers complimentary rides around the Barefoot Landing shopping and dining area.
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North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex Shuttle: Provides transportation to and from this expansive recreational facility.
Road Access to Myrtle Beach
For many visitors, driving to Myrtle Beach is the preferred mode of transportation. The Grand Strand is easily accessible by car, with several major highways converging in the area. Understanding road access to Myrtle Beach can help you plan your route effectively and avoid potential traffic bottlenecks.
Major Highways
The primary highways serving Myrtle Beach include:
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U.S. Route 17 (Kings Highway): This coastal highway runs parallel to the beach and is the main north-south artery through Myrtle Beach.
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U.S. Route 501: Connects Myrtle Beach to inland areas and intersects with Interstate 95.
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SC Highway 31 (Carolina Bays Parkway): A limited-access highway that provides a faster alternative to U.S. 17 for north-south travel.
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SC Highway 22 (Veterans Highway): Connects U.S. 17 near North Myrtle Beach to U.S. 501 west of Conway, offering a quick route from I-95.
Driving Tips
When driving in Myrtle Beach, keep these tips in mind:
- Traffic can be heavy during peak season (June-August), especially on weekends. Plan extra travel time accordingly.
- Be aware of pedestrians, particularly in busy areas like Ocean Boulevard.
- Many streets in Myrtle Beach are one-way, so pay close attention to signage.
- Consider using parking garages in popular areas to avoid circling for street parking.
Parking in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach offers various parking options:
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Metered Street Parking: Available in many areas, particularly along Ocean Boulevard.
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Public Parking Lots: Located throughout the city, often near beach access points.
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Parking Garages: Offer covered parking in high-traffic areas like Broadway at the Beach.
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Hotel Parking: Many accommodations provide on-site parking for guests, sometimes at an additional cost.
Getting Around Myrtle Beach
Once you’ve arrived in Myrtle Beach, there are several ways to explore the area:
Walking and Biking
Many attractions in Myrtle Beach are within walking distance, especially along the beach and Ocean Boulevard. For longer trips, consider renting a bike from one of the many rental shops in the area. The city has been working on improving its bike-friendly infrastructure, with dedicated bike lanes and paths in some areas.
Golf Cart Rentals
In certain areas of Myrtle Beach, golf carts are a popular and fun way to get around. However, be aware that there are restrictions on where golf carts can be driven, typically limiting them to roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less and within 4 miles of the address where the golf cart is registered.
Taxi and Rideshare Services
Taxis are readily available in Myrtle Beach, with several companies operating in the area. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also popular options, offering convenient and often more affordable transportation.
Rental Cars
For those who prefer the flexibility of having their own vehicle, numerous car rental agencies operate in Myrtle Beach. Having a car can be particularly useful if you plan to explore attractions beyond the immediate beach area.
Family-Friendly Transportation Options
Families visiting Myrtle Beach with young children have additional considerations when it comes to transportation. One often overlooked but incredibly useful service is stroller rental in Myrtle Beach.
Stroller Rentals
Several companies in Myrtle Beach offer stroller rentals, providing a convenient solution for families who don’t want to travel with bulky equipment. Benefits of renting a stroller include:
- Avoiding airline baggage fees and the hassle of transporting a stroller
- Access to high-quality, clean strollers suitable for beach terrain
- Options for single, double, and even triple strollers
- Delivery and pickup services to your accommodation
Popular stroller rental companies in Myrtle Beach include:
- Beach Babies Equipment Rentals
- Vacation Baby Rental
- Myrtle Beach Baby Rentals
When renting a stroller, consider factors such as the age of your children, the terrain you’ll be navigating, and any additional features you might need (e.g., sun canopy, storage basket).
Conclusion
Navigating Myrtle Beach doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a variety of transportation options available, from air travel to public transit, rental cars, and even stroller rentals, you can easily find the best way to get around based on your needs and preferences. By understanding your transportation options and planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this beautiful coastal destination.
Remember to consider factors such as the location of your accommodation, the attractions you plan to visit, and the size and needs of your travel group when deciding on your transportation strategy. Whether you’re flying in and relying on public transit, driving your own vehicle, or mixing and matching various options, Myrtle Beach’s transportation infrastructure is designed to help you make the most of your vacation.
So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to explore all that Myrtle Beach has to offer. From the sandy shores to the bustling boardwalk, world-class golf courses to family-friendly attractions, your perfect beach getaway awaits – and now you know exactly how to get there!