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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

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 Hilo 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Hilo

Hilo is a mellow, friendly, and authentic town. With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, museums, and food. See Hilo travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Hilo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Hilo are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Hilo attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Hilo and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Hilo is famous for its nearby rainforests, waterfalls, and green gardens.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Hilo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hilo 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 Hilo. Top museums in and around town include the Lyman Museum, the Pacific Tsunami Museum, Imiloa Astronomy Center, and Mokupapapa Discovery Center.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hilo is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hilo is an experience not to be missed. This is the largest city on the island and you'll find a restaurant scene that caters to both locals and tourists. There are a number of local dishes that you can try such as Pla Rad Prik (a Thai fish dish), mushroom pot pie, and crab and avocado melt.

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 Hilo Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Hilo is not known for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Hilo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a town that goes to bed early, but there are some local bars that have a chill and relaxing atmosphere.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hilo Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Myrtle Beach and Hilo.

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.

Hilo has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll find more hotels than resorts in town.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hilo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hilo is a town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hilo has a few snorkeling spots. Richardsons Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot nearby but, in general, the water near town has poor visibility because of the frequent rain.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hilo Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for the beach. Also, Hilo is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

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.

Many people head to Hilo to enjoy the beach. The town isn't really known for its beaches but there are some decent options if you want to stay nearby and hit the coastline. Beaches in the area include Coconut Island, Reeds Bay Beach Park, and Onekahakaha Beach Park.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hilo Better for Hiking?

Hilo is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Hilo specifically for its hiking. You'll find incredible hikes in the area to many impressive waterfalls. There are also coastal trails and hikes to spectacular viewpoints.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hilo and Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Hilo is a good destination for shopping. You can pick up anything you need in town, just head to Hilo Shopping Center.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hilo More Beautiful?

Hilo is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hilo attracts visitors from all around. This side of the island is filled with beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and tropical gardens.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hilo Better for Families?

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

Hilo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has an authentic and unpretentious vibe that is fun for families. There are low key beaches, farmer's markets, local museums, and nearby hiking. If you want to stay away from the larger resorts and see a more local side to Hawaii, then this is a great option.

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 Hilo Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Hilo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy visiting Liliuokalani Gardens, taking sunset cruises, and sampling the local cuisine. The town also makes a good base for hiking and exploring the beaches on the island.

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 Hilo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hilo is a great destination for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hilo is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has several local hostels that many backpackers prefer for their authentic and mellow atmospheres.

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 Hilo Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hilo 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.

Hilo is not popular with students.

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

Hilo 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 Hilo. The Hele-On is a bus service that connects Hilo to Kona with north and south routes.

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 Hilo a more walkable city?

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

Hilo is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown is a nice place to take a stroll, but if you want to get out of town, and you really should, then you'll need a car.

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 Hilo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hilo or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Both Myrtle Beach and Hilo have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Hilo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hilo than Myrtle Beach. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hilo.

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

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

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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this friendly town 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 Hilo?

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hilo is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the high energy destination of Myrtle Beach. This beach city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

In Hilo, many people enjoy the museums and food that this authentic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the busy beach city of Myrtle Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hilo is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Hilo?

Hilo has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Hilo, 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 Hilo?

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 Hilo in the Summer?

Both Hilo and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Hilo because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Hilo in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Hilo fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Hilo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in July than Hilo. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hilo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Hilo. The autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hilo this time of year.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is cooler than Hilo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Hilo averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 138 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Hilo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Hilo. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hilo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Hilo. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hilo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much colder than Hilo. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Hilo fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Hilo. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hilo receives 158 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hilo. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in January than Hilo. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hilo in the Spring?

Both Hilo and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Hilo in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Myrtle Beach is cooler than Hilo in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Hilo fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Hilo during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Hilo receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hilo. In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Hilo. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hilo receives 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hilo and Myrtle Beach