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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

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

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Bangor

Bangor is a friendly, laid back, and welcoming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Bangor travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Bangor: 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
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Bangor are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Bangor attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and small town charm. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Bangor and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Bangor is famous for its history as a lumber town.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Bangor 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 Bangor. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Bangor 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 Bangor area. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

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 Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Myrtle Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

Myrtle Beach has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Myrtle Beach or Bangor Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

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

Many visitors go to Bangor to go shopping. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.

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 Bangor Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Bangor 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 Bangor. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

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 Bangor Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Myrtle Beach is a beach city with good options for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

Is Myrtle Beach or Bangor Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for students. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Bangor is a town 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 Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

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 Bangor a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Bangor

Bangor is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Bangor is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Myrtle Beach than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than Bangor. 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 Bangor 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 Bangor.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Bangor, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this laid back town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Bangor is a fun place to experience. 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 Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the laid back destination of Bangor. 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 Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed destination of Myrtle Beach. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bangor is a popular place to visit. 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, Bangor 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
    Bangor Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Bangor $237

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Bangor is $237. 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 Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Bangor? 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 Bangor


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 and Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Bangor $36

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor 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
    Bangor $93
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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Bangor $45
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:

  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Myrtle Beach SC: $15
  • SkyWheel Entry Ticket: $22
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Mayhem, Mystique, & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour : $32
  • Mayhem, Mystique & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour w/ Marine Biologist: $32
  • 2 HR Dolphin Tour in North Myrtle Beach: $37
  • Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Myrtle Beach with Barrier Island Stop: $40
  • Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach Entry Ticket: $43
  • Waccamaw River Pontoon Boat Tour: $44
  • Treehouse Experience: $44
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $45

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bangor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bangor are as follows:


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Bangor $23


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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Bangor?

Bangor has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Bangor, 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 Bangor?

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 Bangor in the Summer?

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

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

Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Bangor. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Bangor. 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 Bangor for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

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

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in October than Bangor. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Bangor in the Winter?

Both Bangor 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 Bangor because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Bangor. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor 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 small town charm are the main draw to Bangor this time of year.

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

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in April than Bangor. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Bangor and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Bangor
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)