Payless Car Rental
Myrtle Beach

After collecting your luggage at baggage claim, look for the prominent signs directing you to the Rental Car Center. The Payless counter is conveniently located within this dedicated area inside the main terminal building. All rental agencies are grouped together, making it a straightforward process to find the desk. If you have any trouble, airport information staff are available to point you in the right direction.

The most efficient way to reach the Payless pickup area is to first complete your paperwork at the rental counter inside the terminal. Once you have your keys and agreement, the staff will direct you to the rental car lot. This lot is typically located just a short walk from the terminal building, often in an adjacent parking garage or a designated surface lot. Following the overhead signs for rental car pickup will guide you directly to your vehicle.

Arriving late can be disorienting, but finding the rental lot is generally simple. After visiting the Payless counter in the terminal, follow the signs for "Rental Car Pickup." These signs are well-lit and designed to guide travelers even at night. The path usually leads directly out of the terminal doors and across to a nearby parking garage or lot where the rental vehicles are staged. Pay attention to the row or stall number provided by the agent to locate your specific car quickly.

During summer weekends, especially on Saturdays, traffic leaving the airport for the beach can be quite heavy. The main routes like US-501 and Kings Highway (US-17) often experience significant congestion due to the high volume of visitor arrivals and departures. It's wise to anticipate delays and add at least 30 to 45 minutes to your estimated travel time. Having a navigation app with live traffic updates can help you find less crowded alternate routes if available.

For a straightforward drive to North Myrtle Beach, the most common route is to take SC-31, also known as the Carolina Bays Parkway. From the airport, you'll navigate a few local roads to get onto this multi-lane highway, which bypasses much of the stop-and-go traffic on Kings Highway. This route is generally faster and less stressful for those unfamiliar with the area's layout. Your GPS will likely recommend this option, and it's well-signed.

The most direct route from the airport to the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is to take US-17 Business south. After leaving the airport area, you will head south on Kings Highway, which becomes US-17 Business. This road takes you directly through Surfside Beach and Garden City right into Murrells Inlet. The restaurant district will be clearly visible on your left. This drive avoids complex interchanges and keeps you on one primary road for most of the journey.

To reach the downtown Boardwalk area from MYR, the least stressful path is often taking Harrelson Boulevard east from the airport. This road will lead you directly to Kings Highway (US-17 Business). From there, you'll turn left (north) and drive a few miles into the heart of the city. Ocean Boulevard runs parallel to Kings Highway, so you can make a right turn onto one of the numbered avenues to get to your oceanfront hotel.

The drive from the airport to Broadway at the Beach is relatively short in distance but can be slow during peak evening hours. You should plan for approximately 20 to 30 minutes of travel time. The route typically involves US-17 Bypass, which experiences heavy traffic, especially around the dinner rush and on weekends. Building in a little extra time ensures you won't be late for a reservation or show.

A day trip to Charleston is a fantastic option, with the drive taking about two hours each way without traffic. To make the most of your day, plan to leave Myrtle Beach early, ideally before 8:00 AM, to avoid morning rush hour. The primary route is US-17 South, which is a scenic but busy highway. For your return, try to leave Charleston either before 4:00 PM or after 6:30 PM to miss the worst of the evening commuter traffic.

A same-day round trip to Wilmington is very realistic and a popular choice for visitors. The drive typically takes about 90 minutes each way via US-17 North. This allows you plenty of time to explore Wilmington's historic riverfront, visit the battleship, or enjoy its unique shops and restaurants. To maximize your time, leaving in the morning will give you a full day for sightseeing before heading back in the late afternoon or evening.

The drive to Brookgreen Gardens from central Myrtle Beach is a pleasant trip south on US-17, usually taking around 30 to 40 minutes. The entrance is well-marked directly off the highway. Upon arrival, you'll find that parking is ample and conveniently located near the main entrance. The lots are spacious, so finding a spot is rarely an issue, even on busier days, allowing for a stress-free start to your visit.

For a first-time visitor, the easiest and most direct route to Georgetown is to take US-17 South. This major highway will lead you straight from the Myrtle Beach area down the coast directly into Georgetown's historic district. The drive is scenic and takes approximately one hour, depending on your starting point and traffic. The route is well-signed, making it a very straightforward and enjoyable coastal drive.

When driving north to Cherry Grove, the main areas of congestion are typically on Kings Highway (US-17) through Myrtle Beach itself and around major attractions like Barefoot Landing. The intersection of US-17 and Main Street in North Myrtle Beach can also get very busy. To avoid the worst of it, consider using the SC-31 bypass for a significant portion of the drive, exiting closer to your destination to minimize time spent in local traffic.

After leaving the airport, you'll find several major grocery stores conveniently located along the main routes toward the beach, such as US-501 and US-17. Many are situated within large shopping centers just a few minutes' drive from the airport. To save time, you can look up a store on your navigation app before you leave the rental lot. This allows you to make an efficient stop for essentials before you even reach your hotel or condo.

If your condo has limited parking, it's essential to confirm their specific policies before you arrive. Check if you need a special parking pass and inquire about the number of vehicles allowed per unit. It's also wise to ask about designated overflow parking areas in case the main lot is full. Understanding these details in advance will prevent any last-minute stress and ensure you have a secure place for your rental car throughout your stay.

For visiting the Boardwalk, you'll find several convenient public parking options. There are numerous city-operated parking lots and meters located along Ocean Boulevard and the adjacent side streets. Additionally, several large parking garages are situated just a block or two from the oceanfront. Arriving earlier in the day, especially during peak season, will give you the best chance of securing a spot close to the main attractions.

Driving during Bike Week requires extra patience and awareness due to the significant increase in motorcycle traffic. The most congested roads are US-17 Business (Kings Highway) and Ocean Boulevard, as well as key routes leading to event hubs like Murrells Inlet. Expect slower travel times, frequent stops, and loud noise levels. It's crucial to be extra vigilant, check your blind spots frequently, and give motorcycles plenty of space on the road.

Traffic around Coastal Grand Mall and the US-17 Bypass and US-501 interchange becomes significantly heavier during weekends and holidays. The area is a major hub for both locals and tourists, leading to congestion at the mall entrances and nearby intersections. Plan for potential delays when traveling through this area, especially during the afternoon and early evening. Using a navigation app with live traffic can help you anticipate slowdowns.

To avoid the main Myrtle Beach strip traffic when staying in Surfside Beach, make use of US-17 Bypass for north-south travel. This route runs parallel to the more congested Kings Highway and has fewer traffic lights and business entrances. For local trips, side roads like Ocean Boulevard within Surfside itself are usually less crowded than their Myrtle Beach counterparts. This strategy allows you to access attractions without getting stuck in the busiest tourist corridors.

Kings Highway is the primary commercial artery of Myrtle Beach and is a busy, multi-lane road with frequent traffic signals. If you're not accustomed to such roads, it's best to stay in the middle or right-hand lanes to avoid the need for sudden lane changes for turns. Be prepared for abrupt stops and watch for cars pulling in and out of businesses. Maintaining a safe following distance and staying alert are key to navigating it comfortably.

The area around the airport features several major road interchanges that can be confusing for first-time visitors. The convergence of Harrelson Boulevard, US-17 Bypass, and Kings Highway requires careful attention to signage. When leaving the airport, make sure you are in the correct lane for your intended route well in advance. Using a GPS and having a co-pilot read the directions can help you navigate these merges and turns smoothly.

The easiest way to reach Barefoot Landing is by taking US-17 in North Myrtle Beach. The complex has large, well-marked entrances directly off the highway, making it hard to miss. Barefoot Landing offers extensive free parking in several large lots surrounding the shops and restaurants. Even during busy times, you can typically find a spot with just a short walk to the main boardwalk area, making for a convenient and accessible visit.

To make a morning flight from MYR, you should leave North Myrtle Beach about 2.5 to 3 hours before your departure time. The drive itself can take 30 to 45 minutes without traffic, but morning commuter patterns can add delays. This buffer accounts for potential traffic, the time needed to return your rental car, check your bags, and clear security. It's always better to have extra time at the airport than to be rushed.

The most practical approach is to first drive to the airport's main terminal building and follow the signs for "Departures." You can pull up to the curb to unload your family and all the luggage with a skycap. After they are safely on their way to the check-in counter, you can then follow the signs for "Rental Car Return." This avoids the hassle of dragging bags from the rental lot back to the terminal.

When approaching the airport from the beach, follow the main airport directional signs from US-17 or Kings Highway. As you get closer to the terminal, the signage will split for different destinations like Departures, Arrivals, and Rental Car Return. Be sure to stay in the lane designated for rental car returns. This will guide you to a specific entrance, often leading to a dedicated garage or lot for all rental agencies.

Don't worry if you miss the turn for the rental car return. The airport road system is designed as a loop. Simply continue following the main airport roadway around past the departures and arrivals areas. The signs will eventually guide you back toward the main entrance, where you can follow the signs for "Rental Car Return" for a second attempt. It's a simple loop that's easy to navigate.

On busy summer Saturdays, it's wise to allow at least 30 minutes for the rental car return process itself. This accounts for potential lines of cars waiting to be checked in and the time it takes for an agent to inspect your vehicle and finalize the paperwork. Factoring in this extra time, in addition to your drive to the airport and check-in process, is crucial for a stress-free departure during peak season.

The Carolina Opry has a large, dedicated parking lot that is free for show attendees, so finding a space is generally not a problem. To ensure a relaxed experience, plan to arrive about 30 to 45 minutes before the show's start time. This gives you plenty of time to park, walk to the theater, pick up your tickets, and find your seats without feeling rushed. Traffic on US-17 near the theater can be heavy, so factor that into your travel time.

The easiest way to get to Myrtle Beach State Park is by taking US-17 Business (Kings Highway) south of the main tourist strip. The entrance is clearly marked on the ocean side of the road. During peak summer days, the parking lots can fill up, especially those closest to the pier and picnic areas. Arriving early in the morning is the best strategy to secure a convenient spot and avoid potential closures due to capacity.

To best enjoy Huntington Beach State Park, plan to arrive early in the morning, ideally before 10:00 AM. This allows you to avoid the heaviest traffic heading south on US-17 and guarantees you a parking spot, as the lots can fill to capacity on beautiful summer days. An early start also gives you a better chance to see wildlife and enjoy the beach before the biggest crowds arrive in the afternoon.

From the Convention Center area, the smoothest route to MYR is typically to take Oak Street west to US-17 Bypass. Head south on the Bypass for a few miles and then follow the signs for the airport exit onto Harrelson Boulevard. This route helps you avoid much of the stop-and-go traffic on Kings Highway. It's a direct and efficient way to get to your flight on time.

During heavy thunderstorms, which are common in the summer, it's crucial to drive with extreme caution. Reduce your speed significantly and increase your following distance to account for poor visibility and wet roads. Be particularly wary of low-lying areas on Kings Highway and Ocean Boulevard, which can be prone to temporary flooding. If the rain becomes too intense, it's safest to pull over into a parking lot until the worst of the storm passes.

Driving at night in Myrtle Beach can be a vibrant experience, but also challenging due to the bright lights from attractions and heavy pedestrian traffic. The most confusing areas can be around Broadway at the Beach and the core tourist district on Ocean Boulevard, where side streets may be poorly lit. Using your GPS is helpful, but also drive defensively and be extra watchful for people crossing the street, especially in areas with many bars and restaurants.

For a quick break with kids away from beach traffic, consider visiting one of the parks located slightly inland. The Market Common, just a short drive from the airport, offers open green spaces, a playground, and easy-to-access restaurants. Another great option is North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex, which has playgrounds and walking trails. Both locations have ample parking and provide a relaxing environment to stretch your legs.

Relying on navigation apps is highly recommended and generally very effective in the Myrtle Beach area. Cell service is strong in most places, so signal loss is not a common issue. However, be aware that during peak season, some apps may try to reroute you through residential neighborhoods to avoid traffic, which can sometimes be more confusing. It's often best to stick to major routes like US-17 or SC-31 unless the app indicates a major accident ahead.

When planning drives between golf courses, always add a generous buffer to your travel time, especially during peak season. A drive that might take 20 minutes in the off-season could easily take 40-50 minutes in the summer. Use SC-31 (Carolina Bays Parkway) whenever possible to bypass the congested commercial strips of US-17. This will provide a more predictable and faster route between courses located far apart, ensuring you arrive for your tee time relaxed and ready to play.

Driving to popular dining areas like the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk or downtown Myrtle Beach during the dinner rush requires planning. Traffic on US-17 heading into these areas becomes very heavy between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Parking can also be challenging to find. Plan to arrive on the earlier side of the dinner hour or consider making a reservation for later in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds and the stress of finding a parking spot.

When staying on busy Ocean Boulevard, the best strategy is to use your hotel's designated loading and unloading zone, which is typically right at the main entrance. Pull in completely off the road to avoid blocking the flow of traffic. It's most efficient to unload all your luggage and have one person check in while the driver waits with the car or circles the block. Once you have your room key and parking pass, you can then move the car to its designated spot.

Planning a sunrise trip is one of the best perks of having a rental car. The easiest way to find parking is to target the public beach access points that have their own small lots or on-street metered spots. At that early hour, typically before 7:00 AM, these spots are almost always empty and easy to pull into. Many meters don't start charging until later in the morning, but be sure to check the signage to confirm the hours of operation.

The drive between Myrtle Beach and Florence takes about 90 minutes and primarily uses US-501. This road connects directly to I-95, making it a straightforward trip. US-501 is a mix of divided highway and smaller town roads, so be mindful of changing speed limits. Traffic is usually light, but it can get busier on weekends as people travel to and from the coast. It's a simple and direct connection for extending your trip.