Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a renowned coastal destination, attracts millions of visitors annually. Planning your trip involves considering the most convenient airport access. While Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is the closest option, understanding the alternatives and their respective pros and cons is crucial for a smooth journey. This comprehensive guide explores Myrtle Beach airports, helping you choose the best fit for your travel needs.
What is the closest airport to Myrtle Beach?
The closest airport to Myrtle Beach is undoubtedly Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). Located just a short drive from the city's main attractions, MYR offers convenience and ease of access. Many travelers find this airport the most straightforward option, minimizing travel time after landing.
What airports are near Myrtle Beach, SC?
While MYR is the most convenient, several other airports are within a reasonable driving distance, offering alternative routes depending on flight availability and cost. These include:
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Charleston International Airport (CHS): Located approximately 100 miles northwest of Myrtle Beach, CHS often provides more flight options and potentially lower fares, especially for those flying from larger cities. The trade-off is the longer driving time to reach your final destination.
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Grand Strand Airport (creed): This smaller, general aviation airport primarily serves private and charter flights and is not a viable option for commercial airline travelers. It's primarily useful for those arranging private air travel.
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Florence Regional Airport (FLO): Situated approximately 75 miles inland, FLO is a smaller airport than MYR or CHS, catering more to regional flights. This location might be beneficial if connecting flights are readily available and you don't mind a longer drive.
Are there any other smaller airports near Myrtle Beach?
Aside from Grand Strand Airport, there aren’t any other significant commercial airports serving the immediate Myrtle Beach area. Smaller, private airstrips exist, but these aren't practical for typical tourists.
What is the best airport to fly into for Myrtle Beach?
The "best" airport truly depends on your individual needs and priorities.
- For convenience and shortest travel time: Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is the clear winner.
- For potentially lower fares and more flight options: Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a strong contender, although you'll need to factor in the longer drive.
- For smaller-scale travel: Florence Regional Airport (FLO) provides a mid-point option between the larger airports.
Consider the trade-off between travel time and cost when making your decision. Websites like Google Flights and Skyscanner allow for comparing flights across multiple airports, allowing you to make an informed choice.
How far is Myrtle Beach from Charleston Airport?
Myrtle Beach is approximately 100 miles from Charleston International Airport (CHS). The drive typically takes between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It's essential to factor this driving time into your overall travel plans.
Is it worth driving from Charleston to Myrtle Beach?
Whether driving from Charleston to Myrtle Beach is worthwhile depends on your priorities. If cost is a significant factor, and you can find cheaper flights into CHS, the longer driving time might be acceptable. However, if convenience and minimizing travel fatigue are more important, flying directly into MYR is preferable.
Which airport is cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach?
Flight prices are constantly fluctuating, so there's no guaranteed "cheaper" airport. Use flight comparison websites to check prices for your specific travel dates and destinations. Often, you'll find better deals on flights to CHS, but remember to include the cost of rental car or other transportation from the airport to Myrtle Beach.
By carefully considering these factors and utilizing flight comparison tools, you can select the Myrtle Beach airport that best suits your travel needs and budget, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.
