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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Moncton?

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 Moncton 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.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • 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 Moncton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Moncton are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Moncton attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Moncton 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. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Moncton 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 Moncton. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Moncton 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 Moncton area. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

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 Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

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 Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Myrtle Beach or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

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.

Moncton is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Myrtle Beach is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Myrtle Beach for it's beautiful 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.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Moncton?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

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

Many visitors go to Moncton to go shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

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 Moncton Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Moncton 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 Moncton. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

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 Moncton Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Both Myrtle Beach and Moncton are nice 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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Myrtle Beach or Moncton Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

Myrtle Beach is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Moncton is not popular with students.

Many students visit Myrtle Beach. 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.

Moncton is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

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

Public transit is generally limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to 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 Moncton a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Moncton

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

Moncton is a somewhat walkable city. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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 Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Myrtle Beach than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Moncton?

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 Moncton, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Moncton?

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.

Moncton 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 Moncton?

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 food and shopping around the compact destination of Moncton. 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 Moncton?

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.

Moncton 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton 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
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Myrtle Beach $214
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $214, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. 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 Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Moncton? 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 Moncton


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 Moncton Hotel Prices.

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

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 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 Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton 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
    Moncton $97
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
    Moncton $79
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 Moncton

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

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Moncton $4.54


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

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 Moncton Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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 Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Moncton for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Moncton in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Moncton 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 more rain in July than Moncton. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Moncton in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Moncton. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Moncton because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Moncton. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Moncton in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Moncton. The winter months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Moncton in the Spring?

Both Moncton and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moncton. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Moncton. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)