Driving to HHI - from JAX or Charleston?

[peacefrogdog]

Just read that Southwest will start flying into Charleston, SC in 2011. We've typically flown into Jacksonville and drive to HHI. How far is it from Charleston to HHI? On the map it is closer than Jacksonville, but how is the driving from Charleston? Even though Jacksonville is farther, it is pretty smooth driving with multi-lane highways the entire way.

Also, if anyone has been in the Charleston airport, are there a lot of rental car companies compared to the Jacksonville airport or Orlando?

 

[5forDiz]

We haven't done this drive (Charleston - HHI) but have considered doing it in future when visiting HHI as a day trip or overnight stop. From what we've heard from friends who have done it it's best not to take I95 but via 17 but it is still around 100 miles, it is more direct & more scenic but won't come close to speeds allowed on I95. I don't know much about rental cars at Charleston Airport but I'd think there would be a good number to choose from.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful, best wishes planning

 

[Simba's Mom]

We've driven to HHI from both Charleston and from Jacksonville. I thought Charleston was a much shorter drive, but our experience from Jacksonville wasn't too great. For one thing, we had to deal with many miles of road construction. Also, we got there so late, it was after midnite when we reached the resort. But really, Charleston was at least an hour closer. If Southwest goes there from our city, we'd definitely choose Charleston over Jacksonville. Thanks for the info!

 

[dis-happy]

It's faster from Charleston, hands down.

 

[wdw1972]

Figure 2 hours from Charleston and 3 hours from Jacksonville. If I was flying to HH I wouldn't consider an airport other than HHI or Savannah (about 1 hour). I'm not about to spend a good chunk of the day flying and then have a 2-3 hour drive ahead of me after waiting for luggage, getting a car, etc. Life's too short!

 

[dtwilkin]

I live in Charleston and it's definately the way to go. First off, the CHS airport is very small and not busy, so it's quick in and quick out. I NEVER arrive super early to the airport because you just don't need to. I've never rented a car there (because I live there), but I'm sure it's easy. Plan on a 2 hour drive.