A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Acadia National Park for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a party-filled, busy, and jam-packed beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Acadia National Park is famous for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Acadia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Acadia National Park and Myrtle Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park both to be reasonable destinations.

Myrtle Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Slices of pizza and seafood buffets are the most common options in the area. There are also themed restaurants and dinner shows that make for a fun night, even if the food isn't the highest quality.

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

People head to Myrtle Beach just to party. This beach is famous for its nightlife. From all-night bars and clubs, to music concerts and outdoor venues, there's no shortage of things to do. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and spring break crowds make this the place to be for a party.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Myrtle Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. Most people head to the center of town and boardwalk for the nightlife and vibrant activities more than the actual beach. The stretches north and south have nice beaches lined with hotels and resorts, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere. If you want a more relaxed beach setting without the huge crowds, check out Myrtle Beach State Park.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Acadia National Park. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Myrtle Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.


Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park More Beautiful?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Acadia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

For families, Myrtle Beach is not always the best place to visit. While this area isn't generally considered a family destination, there are some newer vacation clubs and resorts that cater specifically to families and have become popular. The Marriott Vacation Club is one of the most popular with families in Myrtle Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Both Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Myrtle Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. The beach area isn't exactly a romantic destination but for couples who enjoy going out and having fun together, there is no shortage of night time activities.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.


Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is very good for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Acadia National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Myrtle Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The nightlife scene brings the young crowd, but this isn't exactly a backpacker destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a national park with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Public transit is quite limited in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.


Is Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Acadia National Park

Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Myrtle Beach is generally not very walkable. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

Acadia National Park is generally not a very walkable beach city. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

For even more information, also check out Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Myrtle Beach. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Acadia National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than Acadia National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Myrtle Beach that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Myrtle Beach if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Acadia National Park.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Acadia National Park, many people enjoy the that this picturesque national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Acadia National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Myrtle Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the beach city of Myrtle Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed destination of Myrtle Beach. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, one week is sufficent for most.

Acadia National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Myrtle Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Myrtle Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Acadia National Park $206

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Acadia National Park is $206. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Myrtle Beach


Hotels in Acadia National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Acadia National Park $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • One Way To/From Airport Transfer: $50
  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Myrtle Beach change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Myrtle Beach $97
    Acadia National Park $78
Typical Food Prices in Myrtle Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Myrtle Beach:


  • Dinner for Two
    $49
  • Diner Breakfast for Two
    $21

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Myrtle Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Myrtle Beach.

  • Riga Tony's Murder Mystery Dinner Show : $60
  • Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach: $67
  • Adventure Luau - Polynesian Dinner Show: $69
  • North Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat: $69
  • Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show: $71

Typical Food Prices in Acadia National Park

For Acadia National Park, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Acadia National Park $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few typical costs in Myrtle Beach for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Mini Golf for Two
    $18
  • Beach Chairs
    $15

Tours and Activities in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few actual costs in Myrtle Beach for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 HR Dolphin Tour in North Myrtle Beach: $37
  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach: $69
  • Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Myrtle Beach with Barrier Island Stop: $40
  • Custom Candle Making Experience: $60
  • Day Trip to Charleston#5: City Tour, Boone Hall, City Market : $115
  • Day Trips to Charleston#7 See Ft Sumter,CarriageTour,Lunch & more: $215
  • Double Decker City Tour Through Myrtle Beach : $37
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $45
  • From Charleston Day Trip, Boone Hall & Cruise: $210
  • Kayak River Tour to a Private Island: $62
  • Mayhem, Mystique & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour: $32
  • Mayhem, Mystique, & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour : $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Acadia National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park, we can see that Myrtle Beach is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Myrtle Beach Expensive? and Is Acadia National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Acadia National Park. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Acadia National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

Both Acadia National Park and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

Both Acadia National Park and Myrtle Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Acadia National Park can be very cold during winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Acadia National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Acadia National Park. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)