Closest Airport To Myrtle Beach: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

what is closest airport to myrtle beach

When planning a trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, one of the first questions travelers often ask is, What is the closest airport to Myrtle Beach? The primary airport serving the area is the Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), located just 3 miles southwest of the city’s central business district. This convenient location makes it the most accessible option for visitors, offering direct flights from major U.S. cities and seasonal routes to accommodate the influx of tourists. While there are other airports in the region, such as Charleston International Airport (CHS) or Wilmington International Airport (ILM), Myrtle Beach International Airport remains the closest and most practical choice for those heading directly to the beachside destination.

Characteristics Values
Airport Name Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
Distance from Myrtle Beach Approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) southwest of downtown Myrtle Beach
Address 1100 Jetport Rd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577, USA
IATA Code MYR
ICAO Code KMYR
Elevation 26 ft (8 m)
Runways 1 (Designated 18/36, Length: 9,502 ft / 2,896 m)
Airlines Major airlines include Delta, American, United, Spirit, and Allegiant
Destinations Domestic and limited international flights (seasonal)
Annual Passengers Approximately 2.5 million (pre-pandemic figures)
Transportation Options Rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and ride-sharing services
Facilities Terminal with shops, restaurants, and car rental counters
Time Zone Eastern Time Zone (ET)
Website flymyrtlebeach.com

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Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): Closest airport, located 3 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is the closest airport to Myrtle Beach, situated just 3 miles southwest of the city center. This convenient location makes it the primary gateway for travelers visiting the popular coastal destination. Whether you're heading to the beaches, golf courses, or attractions along the Grand Strand, MYR offers quick and easy access to all that Myrtle Beach has to offer. Its proximity ensures that visitors can spend less time traveling and more time enjoying their vacation.

For those arriving at Myrtle Beach International Airport, the short distance to the city means a hassle-free journey to hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. The airport is well-connected by major roads, including Highway 17 and Highway 501, making it simple to navigate to your final destination. Additionally, various transportation options, such as rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and rideshares, are readily available at the airport, ensuring a smooth transition from the terminal to your accommodations.

Myrtle Beach International Airport serves both domestic and international flights, with several major airlines operating regular routes. This includes carriers like Delta, American Airlines, United, and Spirit, providing direct flights from cities across the United States. While it is primarily a domestic airport, MYR also offers seasonal international flights, catering to a diverse range of travelers. Its compact size and efficient layout make it user-friendly, allowing passengers to move through the airport quickly and without unnecessary delays.

The airport’s facilities are designed to enhance the travel experience, featuring amenities such as dining options, shopping, and free Wi-Fi. For those with longer layovers or early flights, nearby hotels offer convenient lodging options just minutes away. The airport’s focus on customer service and accessibility aligns with Myrtle Beach’s reputation as a welcoming and family-friendly destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, MYR’s strategic location and services make it the ideal starting point for your Myrtle Beach adventure.

In summary, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) stands out as the closest and most practical airport for travelers heading to Myrtle Beach. Its location just 3 miles southwest of the city ensures a quick and efficient journey, while its range of services and transportation options cater to all types of visitors. For anyone planning a trip to this vibrant coastal area, MYR is undoubtedly the best choice for convenience and accessibility.

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Florence Regional Airport (FLO): Alternative option, approximately 65 miles west of Myrtle Beach

When considering travel options to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Florence Regional Airport (FLO) emerges as a viable alternative, situated approximately 65 miles west of the popular coastal destination. While it may not be the closest airport to Myrtle Beach, it offers a convenient and often less congested option for travelers. FLO is particularly appealing for those who prefer a more relaxed airport experience or are looking to explore the inland areas of South Carolina before heading to the coast. The airport is well-connected by major highways, making the drive to Myrtle Beach straightforward and scenic.

Florence Regional Airport serves a variety of destinations, primarily through American Airlines, with connecting flights to major hubs like Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). This makes it accessible for travelers coming from various parts of the United States. The airport’s smaller size translates to shorter security lines and quicker navigation, which can significantly reduce travel stress. Additionally, parking at FLO is generally more affordable and readily available compared to larger airports, adding to its convenience for both short-term and long-term travelers.

For those planning to rent a car, several major rental agencies operate at Florence Regional Airport, ensuring a smooth transition from landing to hitting the road. The drive from FLO to Myrtle Beach takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes via U.S. Route 501 and U.S. Route 17, offering a pleasant journey through South Carolina’s picturesque landscapes. Along the way, travelers can enjoy stops in quaint towns or grab a bite at local eateries, enhancing the overall travel experience.

While Florence Regional Airport may require a slightly longer drive to reach Myrtle Beach, it can be an excellent choice for travelers seeking flexibility or those arriving from regions with direct flights to FLO. Its proximity to Interstate 95 also makes it a strategic option for road-trippers coming from the north or south. By choosing FLO, visitors can avoid the potential traffic and higher costs associated with busier airports closer to Myrtle Beach, especially during peak travel seasons.

In summary, Florence Regional Airport (FLO) stands out as a practical alternative for travelers heading to Myrtle Beach. Its location, approximately 65 miles west, offers a balance of convenience and tranquility, making it an attractive option for those willing to trade a slightly longer drive for a more relaxed airport experience. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or business, FLO provides a gateway to Myrtle Beach that combines accessibility with the charm of South Carolina’s inland regions.

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Wilmington International Airport (ILM): Another nearby airport, about 70 miles north in North Carolina

Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is another convenient option for travelers heading to Myrtle Beach, located approximately 70 miles north in Wilmington, North Carolina. While not as close as Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), ILM offers a viable alternative, especially for those who may find better flight options or pricing from this airport. The drive from Wilmington to Myrtle Beach is straightforward, primarily along U.S. Route 17, and typically takes about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This makes ILM a practical choice for visitors who don’t mind a slightly longer drive in exchange for potentially more convenient flight schedules or lower airfares.

One of the advantages of using Wilmington International Airport is its smaller size compared to larger regional airports, which often translates to quicker check-in, security, and baggage claim processes. ILM serves several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and United, providing direct flights to key hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Washington, D.C. This connectivity can be particularly useful for travelers connecting from other parts of the country. Additionally, the airport’s facilities are modern and well-maintained, offering amenities such as free Wi-Fi, dining options, and rental car services to ensure a smooth travel experience.

For those planning to rent a car, Wilmington International Airport has multiple car rental agencies on-site, making it easy to pick up a vehicle and continue the journey to Myrtle Beach. The drive itself is scenic, passing through coastal North Carolina towns and offering glimpses of the Intracoastal Waterway. Travelers should note that while the distance is manageable, it’s advisable to check road conditions and plan for any potential delays, especially during peak travel seasons or inclement weather.

Another consideration when choosing ILM is its role as a regional airport, which often means fewer crowds and less congestion compared to larger airports. This can be a significant advantage for travelers seeking a more relaxed and stress-free airport experience. However, it’s important to balance this convenience with the additional travel time required to reach Myrtle Beach. For some, the trade-off may be well worth it, particularly if ILM offers more favorable flight options or better aligns with their travel itinerary.

In summary, Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is a solid alternative for travelers heading to Myrtle Beach, especially those willing to drive approximately 70 miles from Wilmington, North Carolina. Its smaller size, modern facilities, and convenient flight connections make it an attractive option, though the additional travel time should be factored into overall trip planning. By considering ILM, visitors can potentially access better flight deals or schedules while enjoying a more relaxed airport experience before embarking on the scenic drive to Myrtle Beach.

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Charleston International Airport (CHS): Larger airport, roughly 95 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach

Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a significant travel hub located approximately 95 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach, making it one of the larger airports in the region. While it is not the closest airport to Myrtle Beach, it offers a robust range of domestic and limited international flights, making it a viable option for travelers seeking more flight choices. The airport is served by major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest, providing connections to key cities across the United States. For those willing to drive or arrange ground transportation, CHS can be a convenient alternative to smaller, closer airports.

Traveling from Charleston International Airport to Myrtle Beach takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route is via U.S. Route 17, which offers scenic views of the South Carolina coastline. Rental car services are readily available at CHS, and several shuttle and private transportation companies also provide direct service to Myrtle Beach. Additionally, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering flexibility for travelers without personal vehicles.

One of the advantages of using Charleston International Airport is its modern facilities and amenities. The airport features a variety of dining and shopping options, including local favorites and national chains. It also has multiple lounges and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable experience while waiting for flights. The airport’s larger size means it can handle higher passenger volumes, reducing the likelihood of overcrowding compared to smaller airports.

For travelers flying into CHS, planning the journey to Myrtle Beach in advance is key. Booking transportation ahead of time can save time and stress, especially during peak travel seasons. Additionally, checking real-time traffic updates can help avoid delays on the route. While the distance may be a consideration, the reliability and extensive services of Charleston International Airport make it a practical choice for many visitors to Myrtle Beach.

In summary, Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a larger, well-equipped airport located roughly 95 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach. Its extensive flight options, modern amenities, and reliable ground transportation connections make it a strong contender for travelers heading to the Myrtle Beach area. While it requires a longer drive, the airport’s convenience and services often outweigh the distance for those seeking a wider range of travel options.

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Driving distances and transportation options: Compare travel times and shuttle/rental car availability from each airport

The closest airport to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is the Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), located just 3 miles southwest of the city center. Driving from MYR to Myrtle Beach takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes via Highway 17, making it the most convenient option for travelers. Transportation options from MYR include rental cars from major companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis, which are available on-site. Additionally, taxi services, ride-sharing apps (Uber/Lyft), and hotel shuttles are readily accessible. For those preferring public transit, the Coast RTA bus system offers routes to key areas in Myrtle Beach, though it may be less direct.

Another nearby option is the Florence Regional Airport (FLO), located about 80 miles northwest of Myrtle Beach. The drive from FLO takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via Interstate 95 and Highway 501. Rental car services are available at FLO, but options are more limited compared to MYR. Shuttle services to Myrtle Beach are scarce, so a rental car or private transfer is recommended. Ride-sharing apps may be available but are less frequent due to the airport's smaller size.

The Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a larger hub located about 100 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach, with a driving time of roughly 2 hours via Highway 17. CHS offers a wide range of rental car options from major providers, making it a viable choice for those seeking more flexibility. Shuttle services to Myrtle Beach are available through private companies but must be booked in advance. Ride-sharing apps are also a convenient option, though the longer distance may result in higher fares.

For travelers considering the Wilmington International Airport (ILM) in North Carolina, the distance is approximately 75 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach, with a drive time of about 1 hour and 20 minutes via Highway 17. ILM provides rental car services from several companies, and ride-sharing apps are readily available. Shuttle services to Myrtle Beach are limited, so a rental car is the most practical choice for this route.

Lastly, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is about 130 miles west of Myrtle Beach, with a driving time of around 2 hours and 15 minutes via Interstate 20 and Highway 501. While CAE offers extensive rental car options, the longer distance makes it less ideal for most travelers. Shuttle services are not commonly available, and ride-sharing costs can be high due to the distance. In summary, while MYR is the most convenient, other airports like CHS and ILM provide viable alternatives with varying transportation options depending on your preferences and budget.

Frequently asked questions

The closest airport to Myrtle Beach is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), located just 3 miles southwest of the city center.

Yes, other nearby airports include Florence Regional Airport (FLO), approximately 68 miles away, and Charleston International Airport (CHS), about 95 miles away.

It typically takes about 10–15 minutes by car to reach the main beach area from Myrtle Beach International Airport, depending on traffic.

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