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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

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

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a busy, jam-packed, and high energy 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.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums. See Hershey travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Hershey is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is well known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Hershey is well known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Hershey 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 Hershey. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Hershey both to be respectable destinations.

Myrtle Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Myrtle Beach is very popular for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Myrtle Beach is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a great destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

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.


Is Myrtle Beach or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

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

Many visitors go to Hershey to go shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

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 Hershey Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Hershey is one of the most popular family destinations. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

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 Hershey Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

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

Couples visit Hershey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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 Hershey Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Hershey is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Hershey 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 Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Hershey

Myrtle Beach and Hershey 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.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable beach city. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

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

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

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 Hershey, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this lighthearted town offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Hershey?

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.

Hershey is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey?

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 shopping around the lighthearted destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey?

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.

Hershey is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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, Hershey 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
    Hershey Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Hershey $257

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Hershey is $257. 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 Hershey in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Hershey? 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 Hershey


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 Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Hershey $49

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 Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey 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
    Hershey $105
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 Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hershey

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hershey.

  • Hershey Trolley Crawl and Evening Food Tour on a Vintage Trolley: $20
  • Hershey Trolley Food Tour Experience: $99
  • Rise and Dine Food Tour in Vintage Style Trolley: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Hershey $53
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:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Myrtle Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Myrtle Beach SC: $15
  • SkyWheel Entry Ticket: $22
  • Mayhem, Mystique, & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour : $26
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Mayhem, Mystique & Murder in Myrtle Beach Ghost Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour w/ Marine Biologist: $32
  • Double Decker City Tour Through Myrtle Beach : $37
  • 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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Harrisburg's Historic Downtown Smartphone Guided Walking Tour: $9.75

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and Hershey, we can see that Hershey is more expensive. And not only is Myrtle Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Myrtle Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Myrtle Beach 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 Hershey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hershey than you might in Myrtle Beach.

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 Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Hershey?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Hershey, 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 Hershey?

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 Hershey in the Summer?

Both Hershey and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hershey because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Myrtle Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Hershey. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Hershey during summer. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Hershey. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Myrtle Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

In October, Myrtle Beach is generally a little warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the autumn, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in October than Hershey. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hershey in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Hershey. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hershey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hershey. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during winter. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Hershey. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Hershey. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Myrtle Beach in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the spring, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in April than Hershey. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)