How Far Is Myrtle Beach from Orlando, Florida?
If you’re planning a trip to Florida and are wondering, how far is Myrtle Beach from Orlando, Florida?, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll answer your question, explore the best travel options, and offer helpful tips to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Whether you’re looking to drive, fly, or simply want to know more about the distance, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the details and help you plan the perfect journey between these two fantastic vacation destinations!
Table of Contents
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Introduction
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How Far Is Myrtle Beach from Orlando?
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Traveling by Car: The Road Trip
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Flying from Orlando to Myrtle Beach
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Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach
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Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
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Things to Do in Orlando
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Is Myrtle Beach Worth the Drive from Orlando?
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Conclusion
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Far Is Myrtle Beach from Orlando, Florida?
Myrtle Beach and Orlando are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida, but they are not right next to each other. The distance between Orlando and Myrtle Beach is approximately 170 miles.
If you’re driving, this translates to a 3-hour drive, depending on traffic and the route you choose. There are a couple of primary routes that travelers take to go from Orlando to Myrtle Beach. The most common one is to follow I-95 North, then switch to U.S. Highway 17 for a scenic drive along the coast.
Travel time: 3 hours
Distance: About 170 miles (273 kilometers)
Traveling by Car: The Road Trip
If you’re up for a road trip from Orlando to Myrtle Beach, the journey is relatively easy and offers some beautiful views along the way. As mentioned, the drive takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Here’s what you can expect along the way:
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I-95 North to U.S. Highway 17: After you leave Orlando, you’ll head north on I-95, which is a major highway that runs along the East Coast of the United States. When you get close to Savannah, Georgia, you’ll merge onto U.S. Highway 17, which will take you straight into Myrtle Beach.
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Scenic Views: As you drive through this part of Florida and into South Carolina, you’ll pass lush landscapes, charming small towns, and beautiful coastal views. It’s a nice drive if you’re looking for a bit of adventure and scenic relaxation.
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Pit Stops: There are plenty of places to stop along the way for a quick snack, stretch, or even a sightseeing break. Cities like St. Augustine, Savannah, and Charleston are all close to your route and can offer great places to visit.
Tips for the Road Trip
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Plan for breaks: Driving for hours at a stretch can be tiring. Stop for some sightseeing or a quick meal to make the trip more enjoyable.
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Check traffic conditions: Especially during holiday weekends or summer, traffic on I-95 can be heavy. Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to check real-time traffic and adjust your route if necessary.
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Fill up on gas: Make sure your car is ready for the journey. There can be long stretches of highway with few gas stations, so fill up when you get the chance.
Flying from Orlando to Myrtle Beach
While driving is the most common way to travel from Orlando to Myrtle Beach, flying is another option. There are direct flights from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). The flight takes approximately 1 hour and is ideal for those who want to get to Myrtle Beach quickly.
Pros of Flying
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Time-saving: If you’re short on time, flying is the fastest way to get from Orlando to Myrtle Beach.
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Convenience: Direct flights make it a hassle-free journey.
Cons of Flying
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Cost: Flights might be more expensive, especially if you book closer to the travel date.
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Airport Time: You’ll need to account for the time spent at the airport for check-in, security, and boarding.
Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach offers something for every traveler, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences.
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Peak Season (Summer): June through August brings warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, perfect for beach lovers. However, expect crowds and higher prices.
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Off-Season (Fall and Winter): September to February is less crowded and offers cheaper hotel rates. The weather can be cooler, but it’s still comfortable for outdoor activities.
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Spring (March to May): Spring is an ideal time to visit, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and affordable accommodation rates.
Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is not just about its beautiful coastline. Here are some things you can do during your visit:
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Enjoy the Beach: Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming, or trying out watersports.
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Visit Broadway at the Beach: A massive shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.
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Explore the Boardwalk: Perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beach with oceanfront views.
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Catch a Show: Myrtle Beach is home to several live theaters featuring comedy, magic, and musical performances.
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Myrtle Beach State Park: Enjoy hiking, picnicking, or fishing in this peaceful park.
Things to Do in Orlando
Of course, Orlando is known for its world-class attractions. Here are a few highlights:
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Walt Disney World: A must-see for families and Disney fans alike.
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Universal Studios: Home to thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies.
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International Drive: A bustling area full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
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The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: A magical experience for Potterheads at Universal Studios.
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Orlando Science Center: Perfect for families and kids with interactive exhibits and educational fun.
Is Myrtle Beach Worth the Drive from Orlando?
Considering the distance and travel time, you might wonder whether Myrtle Beach is worth the trip from Orlando. If you’re looking for a beach vacation with a laid-back atmosphere, great shopping, family-friendly activities, and lots of entertainment options, then Myrtle Beach is definitely worth it.
The 3-hour drive is manageable, especially if you’re planning a longer vacation and want to see different parts of Florida and the coast. Plus, if you’re someone who enjoys road trips, the journey itself can be part of the fun!
Conclusion
In summary, the distance between Myrtle Beach and Orlando, Florida is about 170 miles, which equals roughly 3 hours by car. Whether you’re driving for a scenic road trip or opting for a quick flight, getting to Myrtle Beach from Orlando is relatively easy and straightforward.
Both destinations have so much to offer, and they’re both worth visiting. Plan your trip to Myrtle Beach, pack your bags, and get ready to experience a new part of Florida!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to drive from Orlando to Myrtle Beach?
It takes about 3 hours to drive from Orlando to Myrtle Beach, depending on traffic.
2. Is there a direct flight from Orlando to Myrtle Beach?
Yes, there are direct flights from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR).
3. What’s the best time of year to visit Myrtle Beach?
The best time to visit is during spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds.
4. What is there to do in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach offers beach activities, shopping, dining, entertainment complexes, and attractions like the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.
5. Can I take a road trip from Orlando to Myrtle Beach?
Yes, it’s an easy and scenic 3-hour road trip. Be sure to stop for breaks and enjoy the sights along the way.
6. Is Myrtle Beach suitable for families?
Yes, Myrtle Beach is a great destination for families with children, offering a variety of attractions, parks, and entertainment.
7. What are the top attractions in Orlando?
Top attractions in Orlando include Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
