The Grand Strand is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, and that can lead to traffic and transit challenges during peak season in Myrtle Beach. But with a little knowledge about area transport options and some planning ahead, savvy vacationers can beat the congestion on the area’s highways and byways.
Consider these tips for avoiding delays on the roads during your Grand Strand getaway:
Area Bypasses
For a less-crowded route into and out of the Myrtle Beach area, consider taking S.C. 22 (also known as the Conway Bypass and Veterans Highway), a 28-mile, four-lane road that links U.S. 501 west of Conway and U.S. 17 north of Myrtle Beach.
Another alternate route that bypasses some of the busiest sections of the Myrtle Beach area is S.C. 31 (also known as the Carolina Bays Parkway), which runs from S.C. 9 near Little River to U.S. 544 near Socastee.
For a north-south alternative to U.S. 17, the four-lane Robert M. Grissom Parkway runs from Harrelson Boulevard near Myrtle Beach International Airport to 62nd Avenue North in Myrtle Beach.
Parking
Seasonal parking regulations take effect on March 1 and run through October 31. During this time, parking on Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach is prohibited between 29th Avenue South and 31st Avenue North, and parking meters between Kings Highway and the Atlantic coastline require fees. For more information, visit visitmyrtlebeach.com.
Public Transit
In addition to using area taxi services, area limousine services, Uber and Lyft, Myrtle Beach vacationers can avoid local drives altogether by using The Coast RTA bus service. The Coast’s regularly scheduled bus system uses a fleet of more than 45 vehicles to provide transit service seven days a week, 362 days a year. Learn more about fares and routes at RideCoastRTA.com.
During the summer season, The Coast’s Entertainment Shuttle offers free rides along Ocean Boulevard from 9th Avenue North to 29th Avenue North, along Oak Street (to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center), and to top area attractions such as Pelicans Stadium and Broadway at the Beach. For more information and a route map, visit coastrta.com.
Of course, another way to beat the peak-season traffic is to stay in place — and the wide-ranging amenities at Ocean Reef Resort allow you and your family to kick back and have a great time without ever having to leave the resort property. Book your Myrtle Beach getaway today — and get ready for some hot summer fun on the Grand Strand.
