South Myrtle Beach Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around South Myrtle Beach

Renting a car in South Myrtle Beach provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is particularly beneficial for families, couples, and those looking for outdoor adventures. Key attractions are conveniently located within a short drive, such as the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, just 6 km away, and Broadway at the Beach, located 8 km from South Myrtle Beach. For a fun-filled day, visit the Family Kingdom Amusement Park, which is only 5 km away. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Surfside Beach, 7 km away, and Seagate Village, just 1 km away. These locations feature beautiful beaches and parks, enhancing your outdoor experience. The convenience of having your own vehicle means you can easily explore various attractions without relying on public transportation, ensuring a more enjoyable trip. Overall, renting a car in South Myrtle Beach is an excellent choice for those looking to make the most of their visit, providing comfort and accessibility to the area's highlights.

Most popular car rentals around South Myrtle Beach

• Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice for those visiting South Myrtle Beach, accommodating up to 5 travellers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for couples or families looking for a comfortable ride while exploring the area. With its balance of space and efficiency, the midsize vehicle allows for a pleasant driving experience and hassle-free luggage management.
• Standard SUV: Offering more versatility, the standard SUV is another highly booked option around South Myrtle Beach. It comfortably seats 5 passengers and has room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This type is ideal for couples, families, or groups who need extra space for beach gear or other travel necessities. The standard SUV provides a robust driving experience, making it suitable for both city streets and coastal adventures.
• Mini Van: If you're travelling with a larger group, the mini van is the best option available in South Myrtle Beach. It accommodates up to 8 travellers and has ample space for up to 6 large suitcases, making it ideal for families or groups planning to travel together. The mini van ensures everyone can ride comfortably while allowing for plenty of luggage, making your journey more enjoyable and stress-free.

Top rated car suppliers around South Myrtle Beach

• Budget: With a rental location just 2 km away from South Myrtle Beach, Budget is a popular choice for travellers seeking great value. Known for their Midsize and Standard SUVs, Budget provides flexibility and comfort for exploring the region. Their convenient proximity makes it easy to pick up your vehicle and hit the road without delay, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.
• Hertz: Located 2 km from South Myrtle Beach, Hertz offers a reliable car rental experience with a focus on family-friendly options. Their Mini Vans and Midsize SUVs are particularly popular among travellers, making them ideal for groups or those needing extra space. Hertz's commitment to customer satisfaction and ease of access ensures a hassle-free rental experience.
• Avis: Avis is another top supplier with a location just 2 km from South Myrtle Beach. Travellers frequently choose Avis for their Midsize and Standard SUVs, which provide a comfortable ride for exploring the area's attractions. With Avis, you can expect a seamless rental process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about logistics.

Where to stay around South Myrtle Beach

• South Myrtle Beach: This area is ideal for those seeking a blend of outdoor activities and family experiences. It provides easy access to popular attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Family Kingdom Amusement Park, making it a great base for family fun. With its proximity to the beach and vibrant shopping centres, South Myrtle Beach is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy local cuisine at nearby wineries and breweries.
• Surfside Beach: Located 7 km from South Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach is known for its beautiful coastline and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the Surfside Beach, a perfect spot for beach holidays, as well as the Myrtle Beach State Park which offers stunning scenery. The area also features a boardwalk and shopping centres, great for leisurely strolls and dining options nearby.
• Socastee: Situated 6 km from South Myrtle Beach, Socastee is a charming city that offers a city-themed experience with outdoor activities. The area is close to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Family Kingdom Amusement Park, making it an excellent choice for families. Socastee also provides access to nearby wineries and breweries, adding a local flavour to your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around South Myrtle Beach

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before confirming your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a simple process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around South Myrtle Beach

The best value period to rent a car in and around South Myrtle Beach is December, when demand is low and prices are slightly low. January and February also offer quiet times with similar price levels. As spring approaches, March becomes the busiest month with high demand and average prices, followed closely by April and May, which see slightly high prices and sustained demand. August typically stands out as the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining steady.