Charlotte to Myrtle Beach Road Trip with Kids: Best Stops for Families
The 176-mile drive from Charlotte to Myrtle Beach takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes, following US-74 East through the Sandhills region of the Carolinas before picking up US-501 South into the Grand Strand. Unlike interstate drives, this route winds through smaller towns like Wadesboro, Rockingham, and Lumberton, giving the trip a more scenic, rural feel. A stop in Latta, SC offers a midpoint break with a park, local BBQ, and a chance to refuel before the final hour to the beach.
Your First Stop: Latta, SC
2h 22m from Charlotte
Best Park
Withlacoochee Park
North Withlacoochee Avenue
Gas Station
Speedway
1504 Highway 38 W
Family Restaurant
Shuler's BBQ
419 Highway 38 W
BBQ
Coffee
Dunkin'
1504 Highway 38 W
Tips for This Route
US-74 is two lanes in places — be patient
Unlike the interstates, US-74 East narrows to two lanes through several small towns between Monroe and Rockingham. Passing opportunities are limited, and you may get stuck behind farm equipment or logging trucks. Build in an extra 15 to 20 minutes for this stretch.
Grab lunch at Shuler's BBQ in Latta
Shuler's BBQ on Highway 38 West in Latta is a well-known stop for South Carolina pit barbecue. It is right at your planned break point and makes for a much better meal than fast food. The pulled pork and hash are local favorites.
US-501 backs up near Myrtle Beach in summer
The final approach into Myrtle Beach on US-501 gets extremely congested on summer Saturdays, which are the primary check-in and check-out days for vacation rentals. Arrive before noon or after 6 PM to avoid the worst of the beach traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I stop on a road trip from Charlotte to Myrtle Beach with kids?
SmartStops recommends stopping in Latta, SC, about 2 hours and 22 minutes from Charlotte. Withlacoochee Park has a track and tennis courts for a quick stretch. Grab BBQ at Shuler's, coffee at Dunkin', and gas at Speedway on Highway 38 West.
How long is the drive from Charlotte to Myrtle Beach with kids?
The drive is 176 miles and takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes without stops. With a family stop in Latta for food and a park break, plan for about 4 hours and 20 minutes total.
Are there playgrounds along US-74 between Charlotte and Myrtle Beach?
Withlacoochee Park in Latta, SC has a track and tennis courts near the midpoint of the route. For younger kids needing a full playground, SmartStops can find additional park options in nearby Florence and Dillon counties along the US-74 and US-501 corridor.
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