A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Myrtle Beach vs. Halifax for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

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 Halifax 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.

Halifax

Halifax is a friendly, cultural, and historical city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Halifax travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Halifax: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Halifax, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Halifax is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Halifax 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. Halifax is well known for its maritime past.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Halifax 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 Halifax. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Halifax 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 Halifax area. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

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 Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Myrtle Beach is renowned for nightlife. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Myrtle Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Halifax has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Myrtle Beach or Halifax Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

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

Halifax is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Halifax Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

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

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.

Halifax is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

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

Many visitors go to Halifax to go shopping. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

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 Halifax Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Halifax 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 Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

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 Halifax Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Both Myrtle Beach and Halifax are notable 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.

Halifax is a nice destination for couples. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

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

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

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

Halifax is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Halifax Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not popular with students.


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

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

Halifax is very good for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Halifax, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

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 Halifax a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Halifax

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable city. It's a compact town that's relatively 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 Halifax Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

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 Halifax, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this friendly city offers. 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 Halifax?

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.

Halifax 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 Halifax?

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 cultural destination of Halifax. 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 Halifax?

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.

Halifax 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 G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax 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
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Halifax? 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 Halifax


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 Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Halifax $17

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax 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
    Halifax $54
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 Halifax

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


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Halifax $28
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 Halifax

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

  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • Georges Island National Historic Site Ferry Ticket: $16
  • Happy Hour Cruise with Live Music: $21
  • Guided Kayak Tour with Multiple Options: $29
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Party Cruise on the Harbour Queen: $42
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Tall Ship Harbor Sailing Cruise with Live Music: $42
  • Harbour Hopper City & Water Cruise in a Duck Boat: $56
  • Signature Adventure Sail: $56
  • Solar Waterfront Food/Drink Party Bike Experience: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and Halifax, we can see that Myrtle Beach is more expensive. And not only is Halifax much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Halifax would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Halifax and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Myrtle Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Myrtle Beach than you might in Halifax.

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 Halifax Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Halifax, 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 Halifax?

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 Halifax in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Halifax. 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 Halifax for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the summer temperatures in Myrtle Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Halifax averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Halifax. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Halifax. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Halifax 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Halifax in the Autumn?

Both Halifax 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 Halifax in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and Halifax fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Halifax. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Halifax 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Halifax in the Winter?

Both Halifax 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 Halifax for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Halifax can be very cold during winter. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Halifax in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in January than Halifax. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Halifax -4°C (24°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Halifax in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Halifax. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. In the spring, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Halifax. Typically, the spring temperatures in Myrtle Beach in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Halifax averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

Halifax receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Halifax. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Halifax 4°C (39°F)

Typical Weather for Halifax and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Halifax
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) -4°C (24°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) -1°C (31°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 4°C (39°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 9°C (48°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 18°C (64°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 18°C (65°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 15°C (58°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 10°C (49°F) 121 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 5°C (40°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) -1°C (29°F) 152 mm (6 in)