National Car Rental
Myrtle Beach

The National Car Rental counter at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is conveniently located inside the main terminal building. You will find it in the baggage claim area, making it easy to access after collecting your luggage. Once you complete your rental agreement at the counter, the vehicles are parked in a dedicated section of the adjacent rental car garage. This setup is designed for a seamless transition from your flight to your vehicle without needing to take a shuttle bus.

Navigating to the National counter with your luggage is very straightforward at MYR. After deplaning, simply follow the airport signs directing you toward Baggage Claim. The rental car counters, including National's, are situated directly within this area. You can claim your checked bags from the carousel and then walk just a few steps to the counter to begin the rental process. The close proximity eliminates any long walks or confusion, allowing you to manage your bags easily.

Arriving on a late flight at Myrtle Beach International Airport generally means a quieter terminal experience. With fewer simultaneous arrivals, the baggage claim and rental car areas are typically less crowded. This can often lead to a quicker process at the rental counter and a more relaxed vehicle pickup. The airport is well-lit and easy to navigate at night, and the rental car return is clearly marked for your departure. Be sure to check National's operating hours for MYR to ensure they align with your flight's scheduled arrival time.

Managing family gear during pickup at MYR is quite manageable due to the airport's layout. A good strategy is for one adult to wait with the children, stroller, and luggage in the baggage claim area while the other adult proceeds to the National counter. Since the counter is in the same room, you'll remain close by. Once the rental agreement is complete, you can use a luggage cart to move everything together to the adjacent rental car garage to install your car seat and load up your vehicle.

Arriving during peak times like spring break or a summer Saturday requires a bit of extra patience and planning. Expect higher passenger volumes throughout the airport, including the baggage claim and rental car areas. To streamline your experience, have your driver's license and reservation information ready before you get to the counter. Building an extra 30-45 minutes into your schedule for the rental process is a wise precaution. This buffer helps ensure a smooth, stress-free start to your vacation despite the crowds.

Myrtle Beach International Airport offers several convenient spots to regroup before heading to the rental counter. A great option is the seating area within the main baggage claim hall, near the carousels. This allows everyone to gather their luggage in one central spot. Alternatively, the small cafe and seating area just outside of the security checkpoint in the main lobby provides a comfortable place to wait. Once your entire party has arrived, you can proceed together to the National counter located right in the baggage claim area.

During peak season in Myrtle Beach, it's wise to budget approximately 60 to 90 minutes from the time your plane lands to when you drive away. This timeline accounts for deplaning, walking to baggage claim, waiting for and collecting your luggage, and completing the rental car process. While the airport is efficient, summer Saturdays and holiday weekends can see significant volume. Planning for this duration helps set a realistic expectation and prevents any rush as you begin your trip.

To reach oceanfront hotels while minimizing traffic, exit the airport onto Harrelson Boulevard and continue straight. Instead of turning directly onto the busiest parts of Ocean Boulevard, use US-17 Business (Kings Highway). This main artery runs parallel to the ocean and offers numerous access points to the hotel district. You can then take a less-congested side street, like 21st Avenue North or others, eastward for the final few blocks to your hotel. This approach helps you avoid the stop-and-go traffic common on the main strip.

For a less stressful drive to North Myrtle Beach, your best option is to bypass the central tourist corridor. From the airport, take Harrelson Boulevard to US-17 Bypass North. This highway is designed for through-traffic and has fewer traffic lights and commercial entrances than its business counterpart. Continue on US-17 Bypass until you reach the turnoff for SC-22 West (Conway Bypass), then connect to SC-31 North (Carolina Bays Parkway). This modern expressway will take you directly to the North Myrtle Beach area, avoiding the congestion of Kings Highway.

The most direct and least congested route to Surfside Beach or Garden City is to use US-17 Bypass South. When leaving the airport on Harrelson Boulevard, follow the signs to merge onto US-17 Bypass heading south. This route avoids the heavy stop-and-go traffic found on Kings Highway (US-17 Business) through central Myrtle Beach. You can then exit the bypass at Farrow Parkway or Glenns Bay Road to easily access your destination in the South Strand area.

For a first-time visitor, the simplest drive to Murrells Inlet is via US-17 Bypass South. After exiting the airport, follow signs for US-17 Bypass South, which allows you to avoid the dense commercial traffic of central Myrtle Beach. Stay on the bypass for several miles, enjoying a smoother, higher-speed drive. As you approach the Murrells Inlet area, the bypass will merge with US-17 Business. From there, you can follow signs directly to the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk and local accommodations.

To avoid heavy check-in traffic on your way to Cherry Grove or Little River, use the area's main expressways. From the airport, take Harrelson Boulevard to US-17 Bypass, then connect to SC-31 North (Carolina Bays Parkway). This route is your best bet for bypassing the congestion on Kings Highway. Take SC-31 all the way to its end at SC-9, then head east toward Cherry Grove and Little River. This path is significantly faster and less stressful, especially on a busy Saturday afternoon.

For a straightforward drive to the Arcadian Shores area, including Beach Cove, the best route involves using the main highways. From MYR, take Harrelson Boulevard to US-17 Bypass North. This highway has fewer intersections and is more direct than the business route. Continue north on the bypass for several miles until you see signs for Restaurant Row and the Arcadian Shores section. You can then exit and make a simple right turn to head east toward the ocean and your destination.

Many hotels on Ocean Boulevard have designated, short-term loading and unloading zones directly in front of their lobbies. The best strategy is to pull into one of these spots first to unload your passengers and luggage. After your bags are with the bell staff or safely inside, you can then proceed to the hotel's designated parking garage or lot. These are often located across the street or a short distance away, so having one person handle the car while others check in is an efficient approach.

When visiting Broadway at the Beach with kids on a busy evening, planning your parking can make a big difference. The complex has multiple large, free parking lots, but some are more convenient than others. Aim for the lots near major attractions you plan to visit first, such as Ripley's Aquarium or WonderWorks. Arriving a little before your dinner reservation or planned activity can help you secure a closer spot. Remember where you parked, as the area is large and can be disorienting after dark.

To secure a good parking spot at Myrtle Beach State Park, especially on a sunny summer weekend, it's best to arrive early. Aim to get there before 10:00 AM, as the lots closest to the beach and pier fill up quickly. If you arrive later in the day, you may be directed to overflow parking, which requires a longer walk to the main attractions. An early start not only guarantees easier parking but also allows you to enjoy the park before the biggest crowds arrive.

Barefoot Landing is easily accessible from both US-17 Business and the US-17 Bypass. The complex is large with extensive free parking surrounding the central lake and shops. For the easiest experience, decide which section you want to visit first—such as the Alabama Theatre, Duplin Winery, or the restaurant district—and use the entrance closest to that area. Following the directional signs within the property will lead you to the most convenient lot, minimizing your walking distance.

To enjoy an easier drive to Brookgreen Gardens, plan your visit for a weekday and aim to travel outside of peak morning and evening commute times. The drive south on US-17 from Myrtle Beach can get congested, so leaving after 9:30 AM is ideal. This allows you to miss the bulk of local traffic. The gardens have plenty of parking, so arrival is generally smooth once you are off the main highway. A mid-morning arrival gives you ample time to explore before the afternoon.

Getting to Huntington Beach State Park is a simple drive south from Myrtle Beach on US-17. The park entrance is clearly marked on the ocean side of the highway. On beautiful summer weekends, the park is extremely popular, and parking can be a challenge. The main beach access lots fill up quickly, often by late morning. If you arrive in the afternoon, you may face a line of cars at the entrance and might have to park further from your desired spot, so an early arrival is highly recommended.

A day trip to Charleston is very manageable by car. The most straightforward route is to take US-17 South for the entire journey, which takes about two hours without significant traffic. For a relaxed pace, leave Myrtle Beach by 8:30 AM to arrive in Charleston with a full day ahead of you. The drive is scenic in parts, passing through the Francis Marion National Forest. Plan to head back north before 4:00 PM to avoid the worst of the evening rush hour traffic leaving Charleston.

Driving to Wilmington for a day trip involves taking US-17 North, a journey of about 90 minutes. The main potential choke points are the small beach towns you'll pass through, such as Shallotte and Calabash, where speed limits decrease and traffic can build up. To avoid the heaviest congestion, try to travel on a weekday. When you get closer to Wilmington, be mindful of the traffic around the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, which can be busy during peak hours. Using a GPS with live traffic updates is helpful for navigating any unexpected delays.

A day trip to historic Georgetown is very easy and rewarding, taking less than an hour by car. Simply drive south on US-17 from Myrtle Beach. The route is direct and generally free of major traffic issues. Once you arrive, parking near the Harborwalk and historic downtown is surprisingly convenient. You'll find ample free street parking along Front Street and adjacent side streets, making it easy to park once and explore the charming shops, restaurants, and waterfront on foot.

When planning a golf trip, selecting a rental vehicle with adequate trunk space is essential. A mid-size or full-size sedan can typically accommodate two sets of clubs, while an SUV is a better choice for three or four players. Consider that you'll also need room for luggage. Many golfers prefer an SUV for the ease of loading and unloading heavy golf bags. This ensures your equipment is secure and leaves plenty of comfortable cabin space for your passengers as you travel between the area's many courses.

For a “park once” day at the Boardwalk, your best bet is to use one of the large, centrally located parking garages or paid lots. The garage at 9th Avenue North is a popular choice, placing you right in the middle of the action. From there, the entire Boardwalk, Pier 14, the SkyWheel, and numerous shops and restaurants are all easily accessible on foot. Arriving earlier in the day will give you a better choice of spots and allow you to enjoy the area without worrying about moving your car.

Drivers unfamiliar with Myrtle Beach can sometimes be caught off guard by the one-way street pairs that run parallel to Ocean Boulevard, such as parts of Oak Street and Chester Street. Additionally, the main thoroughfare, Kings Highway (US-17 Business), has numerous turn lanes and medians that can be confusing. It's important to get into your turn lane well in advance. Pay close attention to signage, especially for 'No Left Turn' restrictions during certain hours, which are common in the busiest sections.

Driving on Kings Highway requires your full attention, especially during the summer. The road is the commercial heart of Myrtle Beach, characterized by dozens of traffic lights, frequent stops, and cars constantly turning into and out of businesses. For a first-time driver, the key is to be patient, maintain a safe following distance, and anticipate sudden stops. If possible, try to use the left lane for through travel to avoid the congestion created by vehicles turning right into shops and restaurants.

Night driving in Myrtle Beach can be vibrant and busy, especially around major entertainment hubs like Broadway at the Beach or the Boardwalk. To avoid stress, stick to the main, well-lit thoroughfares like US-17 Bypass if you need to cover longer distances. When driving on Kings Highway or Ocean Boulevard, be extra cautious of pedestrians who may not be using crosswalks. Using a GPS for navigation can help you focus on the road instead of searching for street signs in the dark.

During heavy rain or coastal storms, the smartest approach is to reduce your speed significantly and increase your following distance. Roads can become slick, and visibility may be poor. Be particularly cautious on major roads like Ocean Boulevard and Kings Highway, as they can be prone to temporary flooding or ponding in low-lying areas. If the weather is severe, it's often best to postpone non-essential trips until conditions improve, ensuring your safety and a more pleasant driving experience.

The summer sun in Myrtle Beach can make a parked car extremely hot in a very short time. It's a good idea to use a sunshade for the windshield to help keep the interior temperature down and protect the steering wheel and dashboard. Before getting in after the car has been parked, open the doors for a minute to let the hottest air escape. Never leave children, pets, or heat-sensitive items like electronics in a parked car, even for a few minutes.

Managing arrivals and departures at a busy condo requires a bit of teamwork and timing. For drop-offs, have one person ready to unload luggage quickly while the driver stays with the vehicle in the loading zone. For pickup, it's best to bring all your luggage down to the lobby first and then have the driver bring the car around. This minimizes the time the car needs to be parked in a high-traffic area and makes the process much smoother for everyone.

A great strategy for grocery shopping after landing is to visit a store located away from the main tourist drag. From the airport, you can easily access several large supermarkets along US-17 Bypass or on connecting roads like Farrow Parkway. These stores are typically less crowded than those on Kings Highway and have larger parking lots. Completing your shopping here before heading to your oceanfront lodging allows you to avoid the worst traffic and arrive at your destination fully stocked.

When traveling with family members who have limited mobility, look for attractions that offer convenient drop-off zones and accessible parking. Places like Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing have designated spots near main entrances. For shows, arriving early allows you to use the drop-off area right at the theater door before parking the car. Planning your day to visit attractions that are geographically close to each other will also help reduce time spent in the car and make for a more comfortable experience.

To manage sand and wet gear, it's helpful to have a designated 'beach kit' in the car. Use a large plastic tub or a laundry basket in the trunk to contain sandy toys, chairs, and umbrellas. Before anyone gets in the car, have them use the public showers or foot rinses at the beach access point to wash off as much sand as possible. Keeping a small brush in the car is also great for sweeping sand off seats and floor mats at the end of the day.

When sharing driving duties, communication is key. Before setting out, decide who will drive and who will navigate. The navigator can be responsible for watching the GPS, looking for upcoming turns, and pointing out landmarks, allowing the driver to focus solely on the traffic. It's also a good idea to have the less-experienced or more anxious drivers handle trips during off-peak hours, while the more confident driver takes on the challenge of peak summer traffic.

While a larger vehicle offers more space, a mid-size sedan or compact SUV is often the most practical choice for navigating Myrtle Beach. These vehicles are easier to maneuver in tight parking garages common at hotels and condos. They also fit more comfortably into the sometimes narrow spaces at public beach access lots. Unless you need the capacity of a large SUV or minivan, choosing a slightly smaller vehicle can significantly reduce parking-related stress during your trip.

For a smooth departure, plan to arrive at the airport's rental car return area about two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This provides a comfortable buffer to complete the vehicle return process, walk into the terminal, check your luggage, and clear through security. The rental return at MYR is conveniently located next to the terminal, so the walk is short. This two-hour window helps ensure a stress-free experience without any last-minute rushing to your gate.

Before heading to the rental car return, find a nearby gas station or a less busy parking lot to do a final cleanout. This gives you a chance to throw away any trash, gather all personal belongings, and reorganize your luggage for the flight home. Many travelers find it helpful to consolidate carry-on items at this time. Doing this just before you get to the airport makes the actual return process much faster and ensures you don't accidentally leave anything behind in the vehicle.

This is a very efficient strategy for departure. The driver can drop off passengers and all luggage at the terminal's curbside check-in area first. While the passengers begin the check-in process, the driver can proceed to the clearly marked rental car return entrance. After returning the vehicle, it's a very short walk from the rental garage back into the main terminal. The driver can then meet the rest of the party at the check-in counter or just beyond security.

The key to avoiding weekend turnover traffic is timing and route selection. If possible, plan your arrival or departure for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon, avoiding the peak 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM window. When driving, make maximum use of US-17 Bypass and SC-31 (Carolina Bays Parkway) to travel north or south along the coast. These highways are designed to move traffic efficiently, allowing you to bypass the gridlock that often forms on Kings Highway and Ocean Boulevard on Saturdays.