Myrtle Beach driving guide

Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach and want to get around by car? No problem. We’ve created this in-depth driving guide to help you navigate this gem in South Carolina to make your vacation as stress-free as possible.

From advice on parking in Myrtle Beach or on how to get to the Family Kingdom amusement park with minimal traffic delays along the way, we’re here to help. Read on and discover how to drive around Myrtle Beach like a local.

At-a-glance info:

In this guide:

• Driving rules in Myrtle Beach
• Speed limits in Myrtle Beach
• Myrtle Beach toll roads
• Myrtle Beach’s driving license requirements
• Parking in Myrtle Beach
• Electric car charging in Myrtle Beach
• Quick driving tips for Myrtle Beach
• Frequently asked questions

Driving rules in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a top vacation destination, so road safety and driving to ensure the public stays safe is a priority. The city has[LJ(Z2]  42 license plate readers and nearly 800 surveillance cameras, so it’s a good idea to understand the traffic laws that are in place to avoid any issues later.

Here are some of the most important driving rules to keep in mind while on the roads in Myrtle Beach:

• Texting while driving – The state of South Carolina strictly enforces a no texting while driving rule, so leave those conversations until you’ve come to a safe stop.
• Excessive acceleration and revving – In Myrtle Beach these are classed as a violation of noise laws.
• Stick to speed limits – Speed limits in Myrtle Beach are strictly enforced with a city-wide limit of 30mph.
• Be aware of the move over law – If you’re driving and see an emergency vehicle approaching in your rear mirror you must slow down and change lanes if it is safe to do so, to allow them to move through traffic. Otherwise, slow down and proceed with caution as they approach.
• Seatbelt laws are in place – The driver and all passengers in a car must wear a seat belt when in Myrtle Beach. Law enforcement has the authority to stop drivers who aren’t wearing a seat belt and issue a fine of no more than $25.

Speed limits in Myrtle Beach

A city-wide speed limit of 30mph is in place – unless otherwise posted – but here we’ve broken down the speed limits on the different types of roads in the city.

Myrtle Beach toll roads

You won’t find any toll roads in the city of Myrtle Beach but if you’re traveling throughout South Carolina there is one main toll road to be aware of. We’ve featured some more details below.

Southern Connector

If you’re approaching Myrtle Beach via the I-85, you may find yourself using this road and paying a toll. Here’s what you need to know.

From: Fork Shoals Road Exit 4

To: Piedmont Highway Exit 10

Cost for car: The cost to use this toll road for cars is $1.90 with a Pal-Pass and $2.00 if you’re paying with cash.

Cost for truck: The cost for vehicles with three axles and above are as follows:

• 3-axle vehicle: $3.96 (Pal-Pass), $4.20 (cash)
• 4-axle vehicle: $5.28 (Pal-Pass), $5.60 (cash)
• 5-axle vehicle: $6.60 (Pal-Pass) $7.00 (cash)
• 6-axle vehicle: $7.92 (Pal-Pass) $8.40 (cash)

How to pay: You can pay via cash or apply for a Pal Pass to enjoy savings on the cost of the toll. You can sign up for one via the Southern Connector website.

Myrtle Beach’s driving license requirements

You can drive in the state of South Carolina[LJ(Z6]  with an out-of-state license if you live in the state your license was issued. If you move to South Carolina, you must have a SC license.

If you’re visiting from another country, it’s recommended that you obtain an International Driving Permit which translates your driving license so law enforcement can read it.

Parking in Myrtle Beach

There are plenty of places to leave your car when visiting the sights in Myrtle Beach.

Bear in mind that seasonal parking regulations come into place between March and October across the city and parking meter charges are enforced between the hours of 9am and 12am.

If you’re visiting out of season, parking in Myrtle Beach is free on streets near the beach. Here are just a few parking lots to consider pulling into during your visit.

Pavilion Parking Garage

This parking garage is a popular spot for those who want to leave their car in the shade. You’ll find this lot in a popular location, just a 20-minute walk from Family Kingdom Amusement Park and less than 10 minutes away from the SkyWheel.

Location: 451 9^th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Cost (per hour or per day): $3 per hour or $15 a day. A seven-day parking pass is available for $30.

How to pay: Use the Passport Parking or the Myrtle Beach parking app ParkMobile or pay via one of the pay stations.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

Whether you’re planning on spending some hard-earned dollars in the infamous Gay Dolphin gift shop or want to see panoramic views of the city on the SkyWheel, this parking lot places you in the right spot.  

Location: 1009 Chester Street, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Cost (per hour or per day): $3 per hour, $15 full day.

How to pay: Pay via the parking meters available, simply top them up with how long you want to stay and add more money if you want to enjoy the area for a little longer.

Oceanfront Parking

If you have plans to play a few rounds of adventure golf or want to drop into one of the many seafront restaurants serving up fresh seafood (Pier 14 is always a good place for some delicious food), you’ll find Oceanfront Parking in a prime location.

Location: 1080 Withers Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Cost (per hour or per day): $3 per hour or $15 for the full day.

How to pay: Pay via the meters available.

Street parking in Myrtle Beach

You’ll find street parking in Myrtle Beach available throughout the city, with parking meters in place during the high season (March to October). Look for the stickers on the meters that confirm how long parking is available.

Red stickers are for short-term three-hour parking spots while green stickers are there to indicate all-day parking – ideal if you have a fun day planned on the boardwalk!

Metered parking costs for beach access and street ends are $3 per hour or $15 for a full day.

In the core business district, you’ll pay $2 per hour, there are no day rates.

Myrtle Beach parking app

If you don’t carry cash, there are other ways to pay for parking in Myrtle Beach. The Park-Mobile app is a popular choice, you just need to know which zone you’re parked in and then you can cover the cost on the go.

There’s also the Passport Parking app that’s recommended for lots near the beach which sends text reminders to your cell if your parking is about to expire.

Text-2-Park is another option, simply text your zone number and you can pay via your debit or credit card.

Electric car charging in Myrtle Beach

You’ll find lots of options if you need to charge your electric vehicle during your visit to Myrtle Beach. The great news is that over 50% of the charging station ports available are free to use and conveniently located. Learn more about the charging ports available and what to consider when driving an electric vehicle in our EV guide to driving in Myrtle Beach[LJ(Z8] .

Quick driving tips for Myrtle Beach

• Avoid the roads between 6pm and 7pm in the summer months – This is when the ‘going out’ traffic comes to play, as people venture into the city to have dinner or head home from the beach. Venture out earlier and make the most of an early bird special to save some cents and fuel.
• Skip the traffic on Kings Highway – Don’t sit and wait for the cars in front to move, turn off and travel one block over and you’ll find a less busy road. You’ll soon be back on the main route, as Myrtle Beach is set out in blocks so it’s easy to navigate.
• Know your main connector roads – These are the roads that lead to the key sights and that take you straight through the heart of Myrtle Beach. The Carolina Bay Parkway is a bypass road that reduces traffic, while the US 501 offers a direct route to the beach.
• Watch out for cyclists – Myrtle Beach is a popular vacation spot so many people enjoy getting around by bike. Bear in mind that in South Carolina, cyclists have the same rights as car drivers so be aware of them on the road.

Frequently asked questions

• When is the best time of day to drive in Myrtle Beach?

Early afternoon is a quieter time to get around, as you avoid the lunchtime rush and the early evening traffic.

• Is it easy to drive around Myrtle Beach?

Yes! Myrtle Beach’s block-like layout makes it super easy to get around and the street parking makes pulling up to see something new no problem at all.

• Do you need a car to get around Myrtle Beach?

A car is the best mode of transportation for getting around the city if you want to explore further than the beachfront. In terms of public transport, Myrtle Beach doesn’t have trams or subways, so you’d have to rely solely on buses.

Ready to get around Myrtle Beach in your rental car? Try on our handy tips and tricks for size and follow our guidance on parking to make your visit as stress-free as possible.

Get ready for your trip to Myrtle Beach

Learn more about what to see and do in this iconic vacation destination with our in-depth guides.

• Best restaurants in Myrtle Beach
• Best things to do in Myrtle Beach
• Myrtle Beach’s neighborhoods