How Far Is Atlanta to Myrtle Beach? Your Practical Trip Guide from Atlanta, GA
If you’re in Atlanta, Georgia and thinking about a beach getaway, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is one of the closest and most popular options on the East Coast. Understanding how far Atlanta is from Myrtle Beach—and the best ways to get there—can help you plan a smooth, low-stress trip.
Below is a clear breakdown tailored specifically for Atlanta-based travelers or visitors starting their journey in Atlanta.
Distance From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach
In simple terms:
- Driving distance: About 360–380 miles
- Typical drive time: Around 5.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on traffic, route, and stops
- Straight‑line (air) distance: Roughly 300 miles
The exact distance and time will vary a bit based on your starting point in metro Atlanta (Downtown, Buckhead, Decatur, Marietta, etc.) and where in Myrtle Beach you’re heading (North Myrtle, central boardwalk area, or south end).
Main Driving Routes From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach
Most people traveling from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach choose to drive, since it offers flexibility and is often cost-effective for families or groups.
Common Driving Route Options
1. I‑20 East → I‑95 North → US-501 East (Most common route)
Typical path from central Atlanta:
- Get on I‑20 East from your location in Atlanta (via the Downtown Connector/I‑75/85 if you’re near Downtown or Midtown).
- Continue on I‑20 East across Georgia into South Carolina.
- Near Florence, SC, connect to I‑95 North for a short stretch.
- Take US‑76 East / US‑301 then US‑501 East toward Conway and Myrtle Beach.
- Approximate distance: 370 miles
- Approximate time: 6–6.5 hours in normal traffic
2. I‑20 East → SC‑38 / SC‑501 (Slight variation)
Some GPS routes may cut across different state highways as you approach the coast, but you’ll still spend most of your time on I‑20 East and end up on US‑501 into Myrtle Beach.
Quick Comparison: Driving From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach
| Route Type | Approx. Miles | Typical Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I‑20 E → I‑95 N → US‑501 E | 360–380 | 6–6.5 hrs | Simple, mostly interstate | Traffic delays near Conway/MB |
| I‑20 E with state highway shortcuts | Similar | Similar | Slight variation, scenery | More turns, less straightforward |
For most Atlanta travelers, sticking with I‑20 East plus the usual coastal approach (US‑501) is the easiest.
What Atlanta Drivers Should Expect on the Road
Leaving from Atlanta, your experience can change depending on time of day and day of week.
Traffic Considerations in Atlanta
- Rush hours to avoid:
- Morning: roughly 7:00–9:00 a.m.
- Evening: roughly 4:00–7:00 p.m.
- Busy areas:
- The Downtown Connector (I‑75/85)
- The I‑285 Perimeter interchanges
- I‑20 near major junctions
If you can, try to:
- 🚗 Leave Atlanta after rush hour (e.g., around 9:30–10:00 a.m.)
- Or head out early on a weekend morning to get clear of metro traffic quickly.
Flying From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach
If you’d rather skip the long drive, you can fly from Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR).
Flight Distance & Time
- Flight distance: About 300 miles
- Typical nonstop flight time: Around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes in the air
- You’ll still need to factor in check-in, security, boarding, and airport transfers, so total travel time often ends up around 3–4 hours door to door, depending on where you’re staying in Atlanta and Myrtle Beach.
Airports on Each End
Atlanta Departure:
- Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Address: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
- Major hub with frequent flights and extensive ground transportation options (MARTA rail, rideshare, taxis, parking).
Myrtle Beach Arrival:
- Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR)
- Located just a short drive from popular hotels, resorts, and the beachfront.
Flying can be especially practical if:
- You’re traveling solo or as a couple
- You want to maximize beach time and minimize time on the road
- You’re already near ATL (e.g., staying in Downtown, Midtown, College Park, or near the airport corridor)
Bus and Other Ground Transportation Options
There are intercity bus services that operate between Atlanta and coastal South Carolina, though they may require transfers and can take significantly longer than driving.
From Atlanta, typical options include:
- Departing from downtown or near the airport on long‑distance bus lines.
- Often routing through Columbia, SC or Florence, SC, then continuing toward Myrtle Beach or requiring a transfer.
Travel time by bus can easily run 8–10 hours or more, depending on schedules and connections. This might suit travelers who:
- Do not want to drive
- Are looking for budget‑friendly options
- Don’t mind a longer travel day
For most Atlanta residents, driving or flying tends to be more convenient and time-efficient.
How the Trip Feels for Different Parts of Metro Atlanta
Where you are in the Atlanta area makes a difference in your total time:
Downtown / Midtown / Buckhead:
- You’ll likely hop on I‑75/85 or I‑20 fairly quickly.
- Add 15–45 minutes to reach full highway speed, depending on traffic.
East Atlanta / Decatur / Stone Mountain:
- You’re relatively close to I‑20 East, which is the main route.
- Often a good starting point since you avoid some cross-city traffic.
Westside / Marietta / Smyrna:
- You may need to cross town or use I‑285 to connect to I‑20 East.
- Plan for extra time during peak hours.
Southside / College Park / Hapeville:
- Great if you’re flying—very close to ATL.
- For driving, you’ll still connect to the interstates via I‑285 or I‑85.
Best Times of Year to Drive From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach
From Atlanta, Myrtle Beach is popular:
- Spring (March–May): Mild weather and lighter beach crowds early in the season.
- Summer (June–August): Peak beach season; expect heavier traffic both around Atlanta and on the approach into Myrtle Beach.
- Early fall (September–October): Often warm enough for the beach with fewer crowds.
On busy holiday weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day), both Atlanta-area highways and routes into Myrtle Beach can get congested. Leaving early in the morning or a day before the main crowd can help.
How to Estimate Your Personal Travel Time From Atlanta
To estimate how far and how long your Atlanta–Myrtle Beach trip will actually be:
Choose your starting point
- Example: “Downtown Atlanta,” “Hartsfield‑Jackson airport,” “Marietta,” or your exact address.
Use the approximate driving distance:
- Expect about 360–380 miles one way.
Factor in your usual driving habits:
- Do you like to stop often for food, gas, or breaks?
- Add 30–60 minutes for typical stops on a 6‑hour drive.
Add time for leaving/entering cities:
- Atlanta departure: 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
- Myrtle Beach arrival: 15–30 minutes navigating local roads and lights, especially on US‑501 during busy times.
Most Atlanta travelers find that door-to-door driving time lands between 6 and 7.5 hours.
Quick Reference: Atlanta to Myrtle Beach Travel at a Glance
From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach:
- Driving distance: ~360–380 miles
- Average drive time: ~6–6.5 hours (longer with traffic or many stops)
- Flying time (in the air): ~1–1.25 hours
- Total trip time by air (door to door): ~3–4 hours for many travelers
Best options from Atlanta:
Drive if you:
- Are traveling with family or a group
- Want your own car at the beach
- Prefer to avoid airport lines and connections
Fly if you:
- Want to minimize time on the road
- Are already near Hartsfield‑Jackson (ATL)
- Are okay arranging transportation from MYR to your lodging
In practical terms, Myrtle Beach is a same‑day trip from Atlanta, whether you choose to drive or fly. Knowing that the distance is roughly 6 hours by car or about an hour by plane makes it easier to plan your weekend getaway, family vacation, or quick escape from the city.