Road Trip Chronicles: Brunswick, GA to Myrtle Beach, SC in a Jiffy

Summer is here and it's time to plan the perfect getaway! If you're headed to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina from Brunswick, Georgia, you're in for a treat. This long drive across the two neighboring states can be time-consuming and tiring, but fret not. We've done the research for you! From the fastest and slowest routes to the traffic patterns and calculated driving times, keep reading to find out everything you need to know about your next road trip.

The Fastest Route

If you're looking to reach your destination in record time, stick to the fastest route, which is via Interstate 95 North. This is a straight shot up to Myrtle Beach that spans about 263 miles. You can expect to drive on smooth roads with minimal traffic, particularly in the early hours of the day or late at night.

At peak traffic times, however, it can take you up to six hours to make the trip. Rush hour is a common occurrence on this stretch of the interstate, so be sure to plan your departure time appropriately. During the weekend, there may be a higher volume of drivers, especially during the summer months when vacations are in full swing. Overall, the fastest route should take you four and a half to five hours on average.

The Scenic Route

If you're in no rush and prefer taking the scenic route, then Route 17 may be the one for you. This route will take you through the beautiful city of Savannah before making your way up to Myrtle Beach. While it's not the quickest way to get there, it's an experience in itself and offers a chance to explore some of Georgia and South Carolina's most beautiful sights.

At 310 miles, the scenic route takes about six and a half hours during low-traffic times. With increased traffic, however, it can take up to eight hours. We recommend taking stops along the way to stretch your legs and grab some snacks. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to complete the trip if you decide to take this route.

The Middle Ground

Not too keen on taking the fastest route, or the scenic route? The Middle Ground, or a mix of the two, may be the perfect compromise. This route takes you up I-95 North before diverting onto Route 17 through Brunswick, then onto Route 17 Bypass in South Carolina and ends up on Highway 17 to Myrtle Beach. This way, you can experience both scenic routes while minimizing the distance it takes to cover the whole trip.

This route spans 264 miles and takes about five hours during low-traffic times. Naturally, during rush hour or on the weekend, the drive may take up to six hours or more. We recommend checking Google Maps or your GPS device for the most accurate traffic conditions along the way.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're looking for the fastest, most scenic or a middle ground route, you're sure to find the perfect way to drive from Brunswick, Georgia, to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. With plenty of options to choose from, you can customize your drive to fit your preferences and schedules. While planning your itinerary, don't forget to take into account the traffic patterns and estimated driving times. Safe driving, and happy travels!