Road Trip to the Beach: Driving from Baltimore to Myrtle Beach

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Baltimore for a relaxing getaway to Myrtle Beach? With multiple routes to choose from, the distance, and time it takes to get to Myrtle Beach from Baltimore can vary. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the fastest and slowest routes, the distance, and the time it takes based on traffic patterns for your road trip to the beach!

Route Options

There are multiple routes to take when driving from Baltimore to Myrtle Beach, with the fastest route being approximately 480 miles. Your journey can start on the I-95 South, which will take you through Virginia and North Carolina until you reach South Carolina on your way to Myrtle Beach.

Fastest and Slowest Routes

The quickest route from Baltimore to Myrtle Beach is to take I-95 South. This route can take between 7 to 9 hours to reach your destination, depending on traffic patterns. Another option is to take the I-295 South, which merges into the I-95. This route adds an extra 20-25 minutes to the trip, but it can help you avoid traffic congestion through Washington DC and Richmond.

If you're looking to take a scenic route, you can take US-13 South, driving through the Eastern Shore of Virginia before connecting with I-64 in Norfolk, Virginia. This route adds approximately 100 miles and can take around 11 hours, depending on traffic patterns.

Time of Day for Traffic Patterns

The time of day and what day you choose to travel can greatly impact your driving time between Baltimore and Myrtle Beach. During peak rush hour times or holiday weekends, traffic congestion is more likely to occur on the I-95, increasing your driving time by 1-2 hours. High traffic times can include weekdays between 4-7 pm, holiday weekends, and Fridays and Sundays during the summer months.

If you’re hoping to avoid heavy traffic during your road trip, it's best to leave during the early morning hours or to travel on weekdays instead of the weekend. The I-295 route could also help to avoid traffic in busy areas and save time on your journey.

Conclusion

In summary, driving from Baltimore to Myrtle Beach can take up to 9 hours, depending on traffic patterns, your route of choice, and what day you choose to travel. The I-95 South route remains the quickest, but the I-295 or US-13 routes may work well for those looking to avoid traffic congestion or seeking a more scenic route. As you plan your next beach getaway, keep in mind the time it takes to reach Myrtle Beach to make the most of your vacation!