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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Hope?

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 Hope 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. 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.

Hope

Hope is a local, small, and friendly town. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Hope travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Hope: 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
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 Hope?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Hope, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Hope is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Hope 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. Hope is well known for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo."

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Hope

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

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Hope 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.

Hope offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hope Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Hope is not known for nightlife and partying.

People head to Myrtle Beach just to party. 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 Hope specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hope Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Hope 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.

Hope is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Hope Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its beaches. However, Hope 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.

Hope is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hope Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Hope 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 Hope. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Hope?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hope 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.

Hope is a good destination for shopping. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.


Is Myrtle Beach or Hope Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

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

Hope is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

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 Hope Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

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

Couples visit Hope frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful 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 Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

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

Hope is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

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 Hope Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

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

Hope is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Neither Myrtle Beach or Hope offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Myrtle Beach or Hope a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Hope

Myrtle Beach and Hope 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.

Hope is generally not a very walkable beach city. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.


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

Should I spend more time in Hope or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Hope?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Hope?

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 Hope, many people enjoy the that this small 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 Hope?

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.

Hope 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 Hope?

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.

You'll find around the friendly destination of Hope. 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 Hope?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed 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.

Hope 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Hope 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
    Hope Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Hope $47

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Hope is $47. 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 Hope in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Hope $8.89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Hope $18
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Hope

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Hope? 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 Hope


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 Hope Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Hope -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • 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 Hope?

Prices for flights to both Hope 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
    Hope $38
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

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

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

  • From Vancouver: 2-Day Kelowna Wine, Lake, and Farm Tour: $296
  • From Vancouver: 3-Day Tour to Manning Park, Nelson & Osoyoos: $379

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Hope $10


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and Hope, we can see that Myrtle Beach is more expensive. And not only is Hope much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hope would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hope 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 Hope.

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 Hope Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Hope?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Hope. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Hope, 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 Hope?

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 Hope in the Summer?

Both Hope and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hope this time of year.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Hope. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hope in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Hope. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hope for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and Hope fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Hope. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Hope 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hope in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Hope. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hope in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hope can get quite cold in the winter. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Hope in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Hope fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite rainy in Hope. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in January than Hope. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Hope 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Hope in the Spring?

Both Hope and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Hope. Typically, the spring temperatures in Myrtle Beach in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Hope averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hope. In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Hope. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Hope 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Hope and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Hope
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 3°C (37°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 5°C (41°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 7°C (44°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 9°C (49°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 15°C (60°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 15°C (59°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 10°C (51°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 6°C (43°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 3°C (37°F) 217 mm (8.5 in)