A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Anchorage for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

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 Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a nature-oriented, outdoorsy, and scenic city. The famous beauty of Anchorage is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food. See Anchorage travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Anchorage, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Anchorage is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Anchorage and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Anchorage 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 Anchorage?

Anchorage is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Anchorage is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Anchorage area. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Myrtle Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Myrtle Beach is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Myrtle Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Myrtle Beach attract visitors from all over. 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.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

Anchorage is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Anchorage to go shopping. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Myrtle Beach is a good destination for shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage More Beautiful?

Anchorage is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Anchorage is one of the main draws. The city offers access to spectacular beauty. It's surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains, breathtaking glaciers, and vast wilderness.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage Better for Families?

Anchorage is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Anchorage. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

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 Anchorage Better for Couples?

Anchorage is a great destination for couples. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Anchorage frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Myrtle Beach is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Anchorage is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

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 Anchorage Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for students. However, Anchorage is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Myrtle Beach. 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.

Anchorage is not popular with students.

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

Neither Myrtle Beach or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Myrtle Beach or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach and Anchorage both are respectable 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.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable beach city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage 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 Anchorage.

One day in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife around the beach city of Myrtle Beach. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Anchorage, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this artsy city 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 city.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife around the party-filled destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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.

Anchorage 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife around the high energy beach city of Myrtle Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Anchorage. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Anchorage?

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Anchorage 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage 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 Anchorage Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Anchorage, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach or Anchorage?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Anchorage in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Anchorage. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Myrtle Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Anchorage this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during summer. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun in the summer.

Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Anchorage. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. In October, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in October than Anchorage. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Anchorage in the Winter?

Both Anchorage and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during winter. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Myrtle Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Anchorage this time of year.

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. In the spring, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Myrtle Beach in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the spring, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in April than Anchorage. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Myrtle Beach