As we look to our backyard for local travel inspiration, hit the open road and head to the oceanfront paradise of Myrtle Beach to immerse yourself in beach relaxation and old-fashioned Southern charm and hospitality. Not that immersing yourself in history and culture need wait until you get there, the driving route from Winston-Salem to Myrtle Beach is filled with local treasures that warrant a pit stop.
THE ROUTE
Drive Time: 4.5 hours
Route: Follow I-285 to US-52 to SC-38 to US-501 and arrive in Myrtle Beach.
THE ITINERARY
9:00 am: Depart Winston-Salem, NC for Albemarle, NC.
Hit the road with coffee and a southern biscuit from Krankies, a lively community cafe that roasts and sells its own beans.
Drive south on I-285 for 1.15 hours to Albemarle, NC.
10:15 am: Pit stop for some nature in Albemarle, NC.
Stroll through Morrow Mountain State Park on the hiking trails to the breathtaking Lake Tillery.
12:00 pm: Depart Albemarle, NC for Bennettsville, SC.
Get on the US-52 and drive south for 1.5 hours to Bennettsville.
1:30 pm: Pit stop for a scenic picnic lunch in Bennettsville, NC.
Pick up some fresh produce from McArthur Farms (famed for their super sweet strawberries and South Carolina peaches) and have a picnic by the water at the pretty Lake Wallace. Afterward stroll through the town’s Historic District to marvel at the early 19th to mid-20th century bungalows and Greek Revival, Queen Anne and Beaux-Arts architecture.
3:00 pm: Depart Bennettsville, SC for Myrtle Beach, SC.
Get on US-38 E then US-501 S and enjoy a leisurely 1.45 hour drive to Myrtle Beach past quaint historical Southern towns, spectacular coastline and lots of lovely scenic nature.
4:45 pm: Arrive in Myrtle Beach and check into North Beach Resort & Villas.
An oceanfront luxury resort with a Caribbean-themed pool vibe awaits at North Beach Resort & Villas in North Myrtle Beach.
7:00pm: Time for Dinner.
Head to the upscale, eclectic bistro Aspen Grille in Myrtle Beach for USDA prime steaks, fresh-caught seafood and good, old-fashioned Southern charm and hospitality.
Your adventure begins here
THE ROUTE
THE ITINERARY
Your adventure begins here