Driving From Atlanta, GA to Myrtle Beach, SC: Routes, Stops, and Travel Tips

Traveling from Atlanta, Georgia to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a classic Southeast road trip, especially popular with Atlanta families, college students, and beach lovers looking for a long weekend away. Whether you’re leaving from Midtown, the suburbs, or flying into Hartsfield-Jackson and heading straight to the coast, the trip is very doable in a day.

Below is a clear breakdown of how to get from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach, including driving routes, distance and time, flying options, bus considerations, and practical tips tailored to someone starting in or around Atlanta.

How Far Is It From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach?

From most in-town Atlanta neighborhoods (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead), the drive to Myrtle Beach is typically:

• Distance: About 360–390 miles, depending on route and exact starting point
• Typical drive time: Around 6 to 7 hours in normal traffic
• States crossed: Georgia → South Carolina

This is a straightforward same-day drive for most Atlanta-area travelers, but it’s long enough that you’ll want to plan your route, rest stops, and timing.

Best Driving Routes From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

Most Atlanta drivers use one of two main routes. Both avoid complicated backroads and rely on major highways that are familiar to local drivers.

1. I-20 East via Columbia (Most Direct and Common)

This is usually the simplest and most predictable route for Atlanta residents.

Basic path:

1. Start on I-20 East out of Atlanta
2. Continue on I-20 through Conyers, Covington, Augusta
3. Cross into South Carolina and continue toward Columbia
4. Around Columbia, connect to I-26 East briefly
5. Transition to US-501 / SC highways heading toward Myrtle Beach

Why Atlanta drivers like this route:

• Uses I-20, a major interstate many Atlanta commuters already know
• Easy to navigate with clear signage from Atlanta to Columbia
• Plenty of rest areas, gas stations, and food stops, especially around Augusta and Columbia
• Generally good road conditions and services along the way

This route works well if you’re leaving from central or eastern parts of Metro Atlanta (Decatur, Stone Mountain, Conyers, Lithonia, etc.), since you’re quickly on I-20 East.

2. I-85 North + I-385 via Greenville (Alternative Route)

Some Atlanta travelers prefer a more upstate route, especially those coming from the northern suburbs.

Basic path:

1. Take I-85 North from Atlanta toward Greenville, SC
2. Near Greenville, transition to I-385 toward Columbia
3. Connect to I-26 and then pick up routes leading to Myrtle Beach (often via US-501 or related highways)

Reasons to consider this route:

• Convenient if you’re starting from Alpharetta, Cumming, Duluth, Johns Creek, or Gwinnett County, where access to I-85 is easier than I-20
• Sometimes less congested than the I-20 corridor at certain times of day
• Offers different scenery through the upstate South Carolina region

It can add a bit of time or distance compared to going straight out I-20, but for some parts of Metro Atlanta, it balances out.

Route Comparison at a Glance

These times assume normal traffic and weather. Metro Atlanta rush hour, road work, or summer beach traffic in South Carolina can add time.

When Is the Best Time for Atlanta Drivers to Leave?

Leaving Atlanta at the wrong time can add an hour or more before you even clear the metro area.

To avoid heavy Atlanta traffic:

• Weekdays (Mon–Fri):
  • Try to leave before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:30 a.m.
  • Afternoon, aim for after 6:30–7:00 p.m. if possible
• Fridays (especially in summer):
  • Late afternoon can be heavily congested for people leaving town
  • A very early start (around 5:30–6:00 a.m.) is often worth it

Beach-season considerations (spring break and summer):

• Traffic near Myrtle Beach can slow significantly on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings as many out-of-town visitors arrive.
• If you can, time your arrival into Myrtle Beach before 3 p.m. or after 7 p.m. on peak weekends.

Road Trip Tips Specifically for Atlanta Travelers

1. Where to Stop Along the Way

You’ll pass multiple larger cities that make good halfway or stretch stops:

• Augusta, GA (via I-20):
  • Good place to refuel, grab lunch, or take a longer break
  • Many Atlantans already know Augusta from golf or events, so it feels familiar
• Columbia, SC:
  • Major stop with plenty of food options and services
  • A natural break point before the final leg to Myrtle Beach
• Greenville, SC (if on I-85):
  • Walkable downtown, coffee and meal options if you want a more relaxed stop

If you’re traveling with kids from Atlanta, plan at least one longer break around Augusta or Columbia to avoid cranky passengers in the final couple of hours.

2. Weather and Seasonal Considerations

For Atlantans, the climate en route to Myrtle Beach will feel very similar:

• Summer (June–August):
  • Hot, humid, and often sunny.
  • Keep extra water in the car, especially if you’re used to shorter Atlanta commutes.
• Spring and Fall:
  • Usually comfortable. Great times to drive, with less peak beach traffic.
• Winter:
  • Generally mild, but check for rain and fog, especially in South Carolina.
  • Rare cold snaps or storms can slow travel, even if not severe.

Weather apps that Atlantans commonly use for commuting (through Hartsfield-Jackson or I-285 traffic) are just as helpful for monitoring your beach route.

Gas, Rest Stops, and Services Between Atlanta and Myrtle Beach

For most Atlanta vehicles, you’ll need at least one fuel stop, especially if you’re driving an SUV or hauling luggage for a full family trip.

Typical stop patterns for Atlanta drivers:

• Fill up in Metro Atlanta before leaving (gas prices can be familiar and competitive).
• Top off around Augusta or Columbia, depending on your tank range.

Rest areas and exits along I-20 and I-85 are frequent enough that you rarely need to worry about being too far from a bathroom, food, or fuel. Still, if you’re traveling at night:

• Avoid letting your tank fall below 1/4 in the rural stretches between major cities.
• Plan stops in larger exits or towns for better lighting and more visible activity.

Driving vs. Flying From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

Driving From Atlanta

Pros:

• Flexible schedule – leave when you want, return when you want
• Easy to take beach gear, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, and bikes
• Generally cost-effective for families or groups, especially from Atlanta’s suburbs
• No airport security lines or baggage limits

Cons:

• A full 6–7 hours on the road
• Potential for Atlanta traffic slowdowns at departure or return
• Summer beach traffic near Myrtle Beach can be tiring, especially after a long drive

Flying From Atlanta (ATL) to Myrtle Beach (MYR)

Some Atlantans consider flying, especially for short trips.

Key points for Atlanta travelers:

• You’d depart from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), located at:
  • 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
• Flight times are often around 1 to 1.5 hours in the air.
• You’ll land at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR).

Pros of flying:

• Much shorter travel time once in the air
• Avoids long highway stretches and potential congestion

Cons of flying for Atlantans:

• Need to factor in time getting to ATL, parking or rideshare, security, boarding, and potential delays
• Need ground transportation in Myrtle Beach (rental car or rideshare)
• Costs add up quickly for families compared to sharing one car from Atlanta

For many residents, the total “door-to-door” time from an Atlanta home to a Myrtle Beach hotel ends up closer than it looks once airport logistics are added.

Bus or Train Options From Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

There is no direct, simple train route from Atlanta to Myrtle Beach that competes with driving in terms of convenience.

Bus options sometimes exist between Atlanta and coastal South Carolina cities, but they often involve:

• Transfers in other cities (like Columbia or Florence)
• Longer total travel time than driving yourself
• Schedules that may not align neatly with your preferred departure

For most Atlanta residents and visitors, driving remains the most practical and flexible option, especially for beach trips with luggage or families.

Packing and Prep Tips for Atlanta-Based Travelers

Because this is a several-hour road trip, a bit of planning helps:

• Car check before leaving Atlanta:

  • Confirm tire pressure (important for highway speed and summer heat)
  • Check oil level and coolant
  • Verify your spare tire and tools are in the trunk

• Pack for the drive, not just the beach:

  • Water and light snacks (especially if you’re used to short Atlanta commutes)
  • Chargers and a map app with offline options in case of spotty coverage
  • A small first-aid kit and any travel medications

• Consider traffic on your return to Atlanta:

  • Returning on a Sunday evening in the summer? I-20 and I-85 can be busy as everyone comes back into Metro Atlanta.
  • Aim for a morning or early afternoon return when possible.

How Atlanta Neighborhoods Affect Your Route Choice

Where you start in Atlanta can influence the best path:

• In-town (Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Westside):
  • Easiest to hop on I-20 East toward Augusta and Columbia.
• East/SE Atlanta (Decatur, Stone Mountain, Lithonia, Conyers):
  • You’re practically already on the way – I-20 East is the natural choice.
• North Metro (Alpharetta, Roswell, Cumming, Johns Creek, Duluth, Lawrenceville):
  • I-85 North → I-385 can make sense, though many still cut south to I-20 if they prefer that route.
• South Metro (College Park, East Point, Fayetteville, McDonough):
  • I-20 East is usually quickest, with straightforward access from I-285 or surface routes.

Knowing your starting point in Atlanta helps you choose a route that avoids unnecessary backtracking or extra time on I-285.

Quick Trip-Planning Checklist for Atlanta to Myrtle Beach

Use this as a simple pre-trip guide:

• ✅ Decide on route: I-20 via Augusta/Columbia or I-85 via Greenville
• ✅ Pick a departure time that avoids heavy Atlanta rush hour
• ✅ Fill up your tank somewhere in Metro Atlanta before hitting the interstate
• ✅ Plan at least one main stop in Augusta, Columbia, or Greenville
• ✅ Check weather along the I-20 or I-85 corridor and in Myrtle Beach
• ✅ Confirm your hotel or rental check-in time so your arrival window makes sense
• ✅ Pack car essentials: water, snacks, chargers, basic tools, and beach gear

With a clear route, smart timing, and a few well-placed stops, the drive from Atlanta, GA to Myrtle Beach, SC becomes a manageable and enjoyable part of your beach getaway rather than just something to endure on the way.