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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

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

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a nature-filled, biker-friendly, and outdoorsy city. Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Boulder travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Boulder: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Boulder are both popular with visitors, Myrtle Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Myrtle Beach is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Boulder is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, music, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Boulder and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also home to the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Boulder is popular for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Myrtle Beach or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Boulder for snow skiing. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

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 Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.


Is Myrtle Beach or Boulder Better for Music?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder is very good for its music scene. However, Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Myrtle Beach offers a few options. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Myrtle Beach for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

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

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

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 Boulder More Beautiful?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Myrtle Beach or Boulder Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder 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 Boulder. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

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 Boulder Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Both Myrtle Beach and Boulder are good 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.

Boulder is a nice destination for couples. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

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

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

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

Boulder is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

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 Boulder Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Myrtle Beach and Boulder are high quality places to visit for students.

Myrtle Beach is very popular with students. 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.

Boulder is a great beach city to visit as a student. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

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

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

Boulder is a city 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 Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

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 Boulder a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Boulder

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

Boulder is a somewhat walkable city. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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 Boulder Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Boulder? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Boulder 2-3

One day in Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Boulder, many people enjoy the live music and food that this biker-friendly city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer.

Boulder 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 Boulder?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the biker-friendly destination of Boulder. 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 Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. In Myrtle Beach, you'll find nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Boulder 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, Boulder 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
    Boulder Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Boulder $231

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Boulder is $231. 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 Boulder in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Boulder $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Boulder $204
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Boulder

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Boulder? 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 Boulder


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 Boulder Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Boulder $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

Prices for flights to both Boulder 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
    Boulder $94
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 Boulder

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boulder:


  • 2 Coffees
    $8.75
  • Nice Dinner for Two
    $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Boulder $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

Tours and Activities in Boulder

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Boulder.

  • Downtown Boulder Smartphone Guided Audio GPS Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Boulder CO: $15
  • University of Colorado Boulder Campus Adventure: $15
  • Bones, Burials, & Ballads: Boulder Ghost Tours: $24
  • Boulder Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Boulder Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Boulder Ghost Tour: $35
  • Guided Astronomy Tour: $45
  • Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon Combo Tour: $52
  • Boulder Flatirons Private Photo Adventure: $85
  • Boulder Joyride Guided eBike Tour: $95
  • The Boulder Joyride eBike Tour: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Boulder $27


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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Boulder, 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.