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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Phoenix travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Phoenix 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 Phoenix attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Phoenix 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. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Phoenix 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 Phoenix area. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

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 Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Myrtle Beach is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Myrtle Beach or Phoenix Better for Resorts?

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

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Phoenix Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Myrtle Beach attract visitors from all over. 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Phoenix is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Phoenix?

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

Many visitors go to Phoenix to go shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around 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 Phoenix Better for Families?

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

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 Phoenix Better for Couples?

Both Myrtle Beach and Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Myrtle Beach or Phoenix Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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 Phoenix a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach and Phoenix both are reasonable 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.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable beach city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Myrtle Beach and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Phoenix. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

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

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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this desert 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 Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

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 desert destination of Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

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.

Phoenix 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and Phoenix, we can see that Phoenix 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 Phoenix would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Phoenix 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 Phoenix Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Phoenix?

Phoenix has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Phoenix in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Myrtle Beach is cooler than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 380 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Phoenix. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is cooler than Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Phoenix. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Phoenix because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much colder than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Phoenix. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Myrtle Beach is cooler than Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Myrtle Beach