Imagine the excitement of planning a trip to the beautiful coastal region of South Carolina! You’re eager to explore the pristine beaches, indulge in delicious seafood, and soak up the renowned Southern charm. As you finalize your itinerary, one question lingers in your mind: How far is Garden City from Myrtle Beach? In this article, we’ll unveil the approximate distance between these two charming destinations, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the most of your upcoming adventure. So, get ready to embark on a delightful journey through this enchanting corner of the world!
Distance between Garden City and Myrtle Beach
Garden City and Myrtle Beach are two popular destinations in South Carolina that offer a perfect blend of coastal beauty and entertainment. If you’re planning a trip between these two locations, it’s important to know the different transportation options available, as well as the driving, flight, and walking distances. This comprehensive article will guide you through all the essential information you need to make your journey a smooth and enjoyable one.
Driving Distance
The driving distance between Garden City and Myrtle Beach is approximately 13 miles. This distance can be covered in around 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route you choose. Driving is a convenient option if you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle and want to explore the area at your own pace.
Flight Distance
If you prefer a quicker mode of transportation, flying is an option worth considering. The flight distance between Garden City and Myrtle Beach is negligible, as both locations are in close proximity. However, it’s important to note that Garden City does not have its own airport. The closest major airport is the Myrtle Beach International Airport, located in Myrtle Beach. From the airport, it is a short drive to Garden City.
Walking Distance
For those who enjoy slow-paced travel and want to take in the surrounding scenery, walking from Garden City to Myrtle Beach is also possible. The walking distance between these two locations is approximately 10 miles, which would take several hours to complete. This option is not recommended unless you are an experienced hiker and have the necessary provisions for a long-distance walk.
Transportation Options
When it comes to transportation between Garden City and Myrtle Beach, there are several options available to suit your preferences and travel needs. Let’s explore each option in detail:
Driving
Driving is the most convenient and popular mode of transportation for traveling between Garden City and Myrtle Beach. With your own vehicle, you have the freedom to stop at attractions along the way and explore the beautiful coastal towns. The main routes for driving include US-17 N, SC-544 E, and US-501 N. These routes offer scenic views and easy access to the desired locations.
Public Transportation
If you prefer not to drive, public transportation is a viable option. The area is served by bus services that connect Garden City and Myrtle Beach. Although the bus service is more limited compared to larger cities, it provides a reliable and cost-effective way to travel between the two locations. Additionally, shuttle services are available to transport visitors between popular attractions and main points of interest.
Cycling
For the adventure enthusiasts, cycling is an excellent option to enjoy the journey between Garden City and Myrtle Beach. The area offers dedicated cycling routes such as the Garden City Connector, which provides a safe and scenic path for cyclists. Another option is to utilize the bicycle lanes on US-17, allowing you to pedal along the coastal highway and take in the magnificent views while getting some exercise.
Walking
While walking the entire distance from Garden City to Myrtle Beach is not practical for most travelers, walking can still be an enjoyable way to explore specific areas. Both Garden City Beach and Myrtle Beach State Park offer beachfront access and are within walking distance of each other. This allows you to stroll along the sandy shores, enjoy the ocean breeze, and take in the natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
Driving Directions
To ensure a smooth journey between Garden City and Myrtle Beach, let’s explore the driving directions for the different routes available:
Route 1: Via US-17 N
Taking US-17 N is the most direct and commonly used route when driving from Garden City to Myrtle Beach. Start by heading north on US-17 N from Garden City. Continue on this route until you reach Myrtle Beach. This route offers easy accessibility to the beachfront areas and takes approximately 20 minutes to complete, depending on traffic conditions.
Route 2: Via SC-544 E
If you prefer a slightly different route, you can take SC-544 E from Garden City. Start by heading east on SC-544 E until you reach US-501 N. Turn right onto US-501 N and continue until you reach Myrtle Beach. This route allows you to explore different parts of the area and is also convenient for travelers staying in the eastern parts of Garden City.
Route 3: Via US-501 N
Another route option to consider is taking US-501 N when traveling from Garden City to Myrtle Beach. Start by heading north on US-17 S. Continue on US-17 S until you reach US-501 N, then turn right onto US-501 N. Follow this route until you reach Myrtle Beach. This route is a good option if you want to explore the inland areas and offers a change of scenery compared to the coastal routes.
Public Transportation
For those who prefer to leave the driving to someone else, public transportation offers a convenient way to travel between Garden City and Myrtle Beach. Let’s explore the available options:
Bus Service
Garden City and Myrtle Beach are both served by the Coast RTA bus service, which provides transportation throughout the Grand Strand area. The Coast RTA buses operate on regular schedules and offer affordable fares. The buses provide a direct route between the two locations, making it a convenient option for those without their own transportation.
Shuttle Service
In addition to the bus service, shuttle services are available to transport visitors between popular attractions and points of interest in the area. These shuttles offer a convenient way to explore the surrounding areas, especially if you have limited time or want to visit specific attractions without the hassle of navigating through traffic.
Cycling Routes
If you’re an avid cyclist or prefer a more eco-friendly mode of transportation, Garden City and Myrtle Beach offer cycling routes that allow you to enjoy the journey to the fullest. Let’s explore some of these routes:
Garden City Connector
The Garden City Connector is a dedicated cycling path that connects Garden City to the Surfside Beach area, providing a safe and enjoyable route for cyclists. This scenic path runs parallel to Highway 17 and offers beautiful views of the coastal landscape. Cycling along the Garden City Connector allows you to experience the natural beauty of the area while getting some exercise.
Bicycle Lanes on US-17
Another cycling option is to utilize the bicycle lanes available on US-17. These lanes provide cyclists with a designated space on the road, ensuring their safety while enjoying the stunning coastal views. Cycling along US-17 allows you to explore different areas and attractions along the way, making it a memorable and active way to travel between Garden City and Myrtle Beach.
Beachfront Access
Both Garden City and Myrtle Beach offer stunning beachfront areas where you can relax and soak up the sun. Let’s take a look at the main beachfront access points in the area:
Garden City Beach
Garden City Beach is a charming coastal town known for its wide sandy beaches and peaceful atmosphere. This beachfront area offers public access points where you can enjoy the pristine shoreline, take a dip in the refreshing ocean, or simply relax and watch the waves roll in. Garden City Beach is a popular destination for families and those seeking a quieter beach experience.
Myrtle Beach State Park
Located just south of Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach State Park offers another beautiful beachfront area to explore. This state park features a wide expanse of sandy beach, natural dunes, and picturesque walking trails. In addition to beach activities, visitors can also explore the park’s lush forests, have a picnic, or visit the nature center to learn more about the local wildlife.
Attractions along the way
As you travel between Garden City and Myrtle Beach, there are several attractions worth considering to enhance your trip. Let’s take a look at a few of these attractions:
Brookgreen Gardens
Located just north of Garden City, Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. This expansive attraction features beautiful gardens, intricate sculptures, and a variety of native wildlife. Visitors can explore the numerous walking paths, take guided tours, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Wild Water & Wheels
For a fun-filled day of water activities and amusement park thrills, Wild Water & Wheels is a must-visit attraction. This family-friendly water park offers a wide range of slides, pools, and other water rides to enjoy. Additionally, Wild Water & Wheels also features go-kart tracks, mini-golf courses, and bumper boats, providing endless entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
Huntington Beach State Park
Located just south of Murrells Inlet, Huntington Beach State Park offers a beautiful coastal setting and rich biodiversity. This state park is home to pristine beaches, salt marshes, and freshwater lagoons, providing a diverse range of habitats for wildlife. Visitors can explore the walking trails, go birdwatching, or take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront to soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Travel Time
Understanding the travel time between Garden City and Myrtle Beach is essential for planning your trip effectively. Let’s break down the travel time estimates for each mode of transportation:
Driving Time Estimates
As mentioned earlier, the driving distance between Garden City and Myrtle Beach is approximately 13 miles. Depending on traffic conditions and the specific route chosen, the driving time can range from 20 to 30 minutes.
Flight Time Estimates
Since Garden City does not have its own airport, flight time estimates are not applicable for this specific route. However, if you are arriving by air, the flight time to Myrtle Beach International Airport varies depending on your departure location.
Walking Time Estimates
The walking distance between Garden City and Myrtle Beach is approximately 10 miles. Considering an average walking speed of 3 miles per hour, it would take around 3 to 4 hours to complete the walk.
Alternative Routes
While the main routes for traveling between Garden City and Myrtle Beach are already covered, there are alternative routes available that can enhance your travel experience. Let’s take a look at these options:
Avoiding Highway Traffic
During peak travel times or on busy weekends, the main routes may experience heavy traffic congestion. To avoid this, consider taking smaller coastal roads or neighborhood streets that run parallel to the main highways. While this may add some extra time to your journey, it can provide a more scenic and relaxing drive.
Scenic Coastal Routes
For those who want to enjoy the coastal beauty to the fullest, consider taking scenic coastal routes such as Ocean Boulevard or Business 17. These roads offer stunning views of the ocean, access to beachfront areas, and opportunities to explore charming coastal towns along the way. While these routes may take slightly longer, the breathtaking scenery and unique attractions make them worthwhile.
Best Time to Travel
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip between Garden City and Myrtle Beach, it’s important to consider the best time to travel. Let’s explore a couple of factors to take into account:
Avoiding Crowds
Both Garden City and Myrtle Beach are popular tourist destinations, especially during the summer months and major holidays. If you prefer a more serene and less crowded experience, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or weekdays. This will allow you to enjoy the attractions, beaches, and dining options without the crowds.
Considering Weather Conditions
South Carolina experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The peak summer season, from June to August, can be quite hot and humid, while the winter months tend to be milder. Consider the weather conditions that align with your preferences and activities. Spring and fall generally offer pleasant temperatures and are a great time to visit if you want to avoid extreme heat.
By following this comprehensive guide, you are well-prepared for your journey between Garden City and Myrtle Beach. Whether you choose to drive, utilize public transportation, cycle, or walk, each option has its own unique perks and attractions along the way. Enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery, explore the local attractions, and have a memorable trip filled with relaxation and fun.