Folly Beach is approximately 95 miles southwest of Myrtle Beach. The drive typically takes around 2 hours via US-17 S. Nestled along the picturesque coastline of South Carolina, Folly Beach offers a serene escape from the bustling energy of Myrtle Beach.
This quaint, laid-back beach town, known for its natural beauty and charming atmosphere, is a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil seaside experience. Travelers from Myrtle Beach can anticipate a scenic road trip through the state, passing through quaint towns and lush landscapes on their way to Folly Beach’s sandy shores and rolling waves.
Whether you’re in pursuit of a day on the water or a stroll down the Fishing Pier, Folly Beach provides a delightful contrast to the livelier Myrtle Beach.
Geographic Proximity
Are you planning a trip and curious about the distance between two of South Carolina’s beach gems? Understanding the geographic proximity is key to planning your vacation. Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations, but they are not next-door neighbors. Let’s explore how far apart they are and what separates them.
South Carolina’s Coastal Jewels
South Carolina boasts a long, beautiful coastline dotted with stunning beaches. Folly Beach, often referred to as “the Edge of America,” lies near the historic city of Charleston. On the other hand, Myrtle Beach is a renowned resort destination. Each spot promises unique experiences, but they’re located on different parts of the coast.
- Folly Beach: Known for a laid-back vibe and surfing spots.
- Myrtle Beach: Famous for its bustling boardwalk and family attractions.
Mapping The Stretch
The stretch between Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach is significant. A road trip covers approximately 95 miles and takes about 2 hours. This is what road trippers can expect:
| Starting Point | End Point | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Folly Beach | Myrtle Beach | 95 miles | 2 hours |
Travelers will journey through scenic routes filled with Southern charm and nature. Despite the distance, the journey from Folly Beach to Myrtle Beach is an adventure in itself.
Traveling The Distance By Car
Imagine sun-kissed roads unwinding before you as you journey from Myrtle Beach to Folly Beach. The drive itself is as much a part of your vacation as the beaches. Car travel offers flexibility and scenic views along the South Carolina coastline. This guide breaks down the road route and travel time for a breezy trip.
Road Routes Explained
The joy of road trips lies in the routes, and the drive from Myrtle Beach to Folly Beach is no different. Two main paths thread through the landscape:
- Highway Route: Take US Highway 17 S, merging onto US-17 S/Septima Clark Pkwy.
- Scenic Coastal Route: Alternate by joining SC-703, savoring the ocean vistas.
Both routes unfold through charming towns, each presenting its unique flavors and experiences.
Estimated Driving Time
Expect the drive to take approximately:
| Highway Route: | About 3 hours and 30 minutes |
| Scenic Coastal Route: | Roughly 4 hours |
Traffic conditions can alter these times, so plan for flexibility. Setting out early can help avoid delays. Whether zipping through highways or cruising the coasts, the journey to Folly Beach from Myrtle Beach is all about the adventures on the road.
Alternative Modes Of Transportation
Exploring transportation choices is key to planning your trip. Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations. Yet, the distance between them asks for careful travel planning. This section covers alternative travel options aside from driving.
Bus And Shuttle Options
Bus services offer a cost-effective way to travel. Several companies operate between the cities. You can enjoy scenic routes along the way. Here are the best bus and shuttle choices:
- Coast RTA: Provides regional transportation.
- Greyhound: National service with flexible scheduling.
For direct travel, shuttles serve as a convenient option. Private shuttles can be booked in advance. They provide door-to-door service.
Train Services Between Cities
Train travel might not be direct but offers comfort. Connections are through nearby stations. Below is a brief on train options:
| Service | Connection Points | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | Charleston to Florence | Around 2 hours |
Buses link train stations to final destinations. Amtrak connects larger cities, then a bus completes your journey. Check train schedules in advance for a seamless experience.
Air Travel Insights
Planning a trip to the charming shores of Folly Beach or the bustling coast of Myrtle Beach by air? Understanding your travel route and airport options is key. Discover how to navigate the skies for a seamless trip to these beloved beach destinations.
Nearest Airports
Your beach adventure starts with choosing the right airport. For Folly Beach, the closest airport is Charleston International Airport (CHS). Myrtle Beach has its own gateway, the Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). Both offer access to these coastal spots and serve as efficient starting points for your vacation.
- Charleston International Airport (CHS) – Closest to Folly Beach
- Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) – Serves directly to Myrtle Beach.
Flight Connections And Layovers
With flight connections and layovers, it’s vital to be smart. Direct flights to CHS or MYR are ideal. If that’s not possible, choose layovers wisely. Major hubs like Atlanta or Charlotte often offer the most options and the shortest additional travel time.
| Destination | Typical Layover Cities |
|---|---|
| Charleston International Airport (CHS) | Atlanta, Charlotte |
| Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) | Atlanta, Charlotte, New York |
Select flights that minimize layover duration. Travel apps and websites can help plan efficiently. Remember, the quicker the layover, the sooner you’ll be enjoying the beach!
Scenic Road Trip Highlights
Embarking on a scenic road trip from Folly Beach to Myrtle Beach unveils a delightful experience. Discover a journey not just measured by distance, but by the memories made along the coast of South Carolina. This route promises an adventure that introduces you to the heartbeat of the region.
Attractions Along The Route
The stretch between Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach is dotted with attractions that each tell a story.
- Visit the Huntington Beach State Park, home to abundant wildlife.
- Explore the historical Atalaya Castle, a hidden gem of architecture.
- Stop by Murrells Inlet, known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina.
- Witness the majestic Brookgreen Gardens, displaying sculptures and botanical beauty.
Best Spots For A Pit Stop
En route, there are delightful spots perfect for taking a break.
| Spot | Description | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Boone Hall Plantation | Iconic plantation known for its live oak alley and rich history. | Mount Pleasant, SC |
| Paolo’s Gelato Italiano | Enjoy authentic Italian gelato, a perfect refreshment for road trippers. | Charleston, SC |
| Pawleys Island Hammock Shops | Shop for unique handcrafted hammocks and local crafts. | Pawleys Island, SC |
| Georgetown Harborwalk | Stroll along the scenic waterfront and savor local eateries. | Georgetown, SC |
Accommodation Choices
Exploring the Carolinas means finding the perfect spot to stay after a day of sandy adventures. The distance between Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach opens up a treasure trove of accommodation options. With each location offering its unique charm, picking a home away from home becomes an exciting part of your vacation planning.
Staying In Folly Beach
Folly Beach, known for its laid-back vibe and stunning vistas, presents a variety of places to lay your head. Find quaint bed and breakfasts, cozy beachfront cottages, and modern vacation rentals. Options vary from budget-friendly inns to luxurious condos. Take your pick based on your preferences:
- Seaside Cottages: Step out directly onto the sand.
- Rentals by Owner: Experience the comfort of a personal touch.
- Eco-friendly Lodges: Stay with sustainability in mind.
Myrtle Beach Hotels And Resorts
Myrtle Beach boasts an array of hotels and resorts to fit any style or budget. Indulge in luxury high-rises, family-friendly suites, and all-inclusive resorts. Many come with pools, on-site restaurants, and oceanfront views. Review some top picks through quick bullets:
| Hotel | Amenities | Proximity to Beach |
|---|---|---|
| The Boardwalk Resort | Indoor Pool, Lazy River | Beachfront |
| Sunrise Point | Kids’ Club, Spas | Beachfront |
| Ocean Blue | Fine Dining, Gyms | Ocean View Rooms |
Regardless of where you choose to stay, both Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach will not disappoint. Each location promises a memorable escape filled with comfort, convenience, and coastal charm.
Things To Do At Both Beaches
Are you ready to splash in the sun? Folly Beach and Myrtle Beach offer endless fun for everyone. From sandy shores to exciting attractions, each beach boasts activities that no traveler should miss!
Folly Beach Activities
- Surfing: Catch a wave! Folly Beach is known as one of the best surfing spots on the East Coast.
- Fishing: Bring your rod and reel for some prime fishing straight off the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier.
- Kayaking: Paddle through the marshes and see Folly’s natural beauty up close.
- Beachcombing: Search for seashells and shark teeth along the shore.
Myrtle Beach Attractions
- Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Enjoy thrilling rides and games for a day of family fun.
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Stroll, shop, and savor delicious eats at this oceanfront promenade.
- Ripley’s Aquarium: Marvel at exotic sea creatures and experience underwater adventures.
- Golf: Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s paradise with over 100 courses to choose from.
Best Time To Visit
Deciding on the best time for your trip to Folly Beach from Myrtle Beach? Consider the weather and tourist seasons. These factors can change your experience. Let’s explore the most favorable times for your beach getaway.
Weather Patterns
Folly Beach enjoys a subtropical climate. This means warm summers and mild winters. Below is a breakdown of the weather by season:
- Spring: Average high temperatures range from 68°F to 79°F.
- Summer: Average high temperatures peak at around 88°F.
- Fall: Temperatures cool down, averaging from 77°F to 68°F.
- Winter: Expect cooler weather with averages from 59°F to 68°F.
The perfect beach weather typically arrives from late April to early June, and from late September to October.
Tourist Seasons
Understand the flow of tourists to pick a less crowded period:
- Peak Season: Summer months bring the crowds. Beaches may be busier.
- Off-Peak Season: Winter sees fewer visitors. You’ll find more tranquility.
- Shoulder Seasons: Spring and Fall offer a balance. Not too busy, not too quiet.
For an ideal mix of good weather and lower tourist numbers, plan your visit in the Shoulder Seasons. This can mean fewer lines, more local interactions, and often better rates for accommodations.
Conclusion
Embarking on a coastal escape from Folly Beach to Myrtle Beach promises scenic views and a spirit of adventure. Covering roughly 95 miles in distance, this journey by car takes about two hours. So, pack your bags, set your playlist, and let the road trip memories begin! Whether seeking relaxation or entertainment, both destinations offer an abundance of sun, sand, and surf to make your travels unforgettable.
