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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or El Paso?

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 El Paso can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a party-filled, busy, and jam-packed beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

El Paso

El Paso is a undiscovered, laid-back, and low-key city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See El Paso travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and El Paso: 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 El Paso?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than El Paso, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while El Paso is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than El Paso and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. El Paso is well known for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso area. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

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 El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Myrtle Beach or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or El Paso Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its beaches. However, El Paso is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or El Paso?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

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

Many visitors go to El Paso to go shopping. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

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 El Paso Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

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 El Paso Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

Myrtle Beach is very good for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

Is Myrtle Beach or El Paso Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, El Paso is not popular with 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.

El Paso is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

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 El Paso a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
El Paso

Myrtle Beach and El Paso 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.

El Paso is generally not a very walkable beach city. You really need a car to get around town.

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

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Myrtle Beach than El Paso 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 El Paso.

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

Couples should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than El Paso. 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 El Paso 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 El Paso.


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or El Paso?

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 El Paso, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this undiscovered city offers. 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 El Paso?

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.

El Paso 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 El Paso?

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 museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of El Paso. 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 El Paso?

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.

El Paso 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, El Paso 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
    El Paso Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    El Paso $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in El Paso is $200. 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 El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or El Paso? 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 El Paso


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 El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    El Paso $37

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 El Paso

Also for El Paso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $293
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $67
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $134
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso 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
    El Paso $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

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    El Paso $27
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
  • 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 : $32
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Myrtle Beach SC: $15

Tours and Activities in El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $24
  • Wraiths of the West Texas Wind: El Paso Ghost Tour: $26
  • Texas and New Mexico Bundle 4 day Self Guided National Park Tours: $40
  • El Paso Indoor Skydiving Experience with 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate: $102
  • Private Downtown City Sightseeing Tour of Juarez Mexico: $120
  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $130
  • Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour: $190
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $275

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    El Paso $27


When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and El Paso, 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 El Paso Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and El Paso, 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.