A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Santa Cruz for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

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 Santa Cruz can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy 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.

Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a laid back, coastal, and scenic town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Santa Cruz travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Santa Cruz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Santa Cruz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and big city activities, while Santa Cruz is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Santa Cruz and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Santa Cruz is well known for its dramatic coastline, fun-filled boardwalk, and beautiful beaches.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Santa Cruz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz. Local museums in town include the Surfing Museum, Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and Santa Cruz Mission.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz area. Sampling local seafood is a top priority for many visitors. Most restaurants have a casual vibe and serve up high quality dishes in a relaxed setting. You'll find cafes, Mexican food, and Italian eateries among other options.

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 Santa Cruz Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is very popular for nightlife. Also, Santa Cruz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Santa Cruz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You'll find a range of nighttime options around town that include live entertainment, bars, clubs, and even a casino.

Is Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach and Santa Cruz are great choices for a beach vacation.

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Santa Cruz. The beaches are beautiful and fun. Head to Main Beach for the most activity. This is where you'll find the town's boardwalk, which has a historic carousel and several classic amusement rides. For a more peaceful and scenic spot, check out Natural Bridges State Beach or Seacliff State Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Santa Cruz. There are several great parks in the area and trails that follow along the rugged coastline or go through the impressive redwood forests.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

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

Many visitors go to Santa Cruz to go shopping. Downtown Santa Cruz is where you'll find some of the best shopping.

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 Santa Cruz Better for Families?

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

Santa Cruz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with beaches, parks, playgrounds, and museums that kids and adults will enjoy. Highlights for many families include visiting the boardwalk, playing around at Seacliff State Beach, entertaining the kids at Seymour Center at Long Marine Lab, and taking in the beauty at Natural Bridges State Beach.

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 Santa Cruz Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Santa Cruz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Dining in downtown Santa Cruz, hiking through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, and relaxing on the beach at Natural Bridges State Beach all make for a romantic getaway.

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 Santa Cruz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Cruz is very good for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Santa Cruz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a laid back vibe that is fun to experience and there's even a hostel in town.

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 Santa Cruz Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is notable for students. However, Santa Cruz 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.

Santa Cruz is not popular with students.

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

Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz. There are buses that travel around town.

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 Santa Cruz a more walkable city?

Santa Cruz is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Getting around Santa Cruz on foot is easy. It's considered to be one of the most walkable cities in California.

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 Santa Cruz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Cruz or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Myrtle Beach than Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz.

One day in Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

With nightlife around the party-filled beach city of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Santa Cruz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this coastal town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

With nightlife around the destination of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach city.

Santa Cruz is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Santa Cruz?

Myrtle Beach, a popular beach city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Santa Cruz. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Santa Cruz?

Myrtle Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Santa Cruz is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Santa Cruz, we can see that Myrtle Beach is more expensive. And not only is Santa Cruz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Cruz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz.

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 Santa Cruz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz?

Santa Cruz has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz?

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 Santa Cruz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Santa Cruz. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Santa Cruz because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Santa Cruz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Myrtle Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Santa Cruz averages at about 67°F (19°C).

Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Santa Cruz. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 0.1 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Santa Cruz. The autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Santa Cruz this time of year.

In October, Myrtle Beach is generally around the same temperature as Santa Cruz. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and Santa Cruz fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in October than Santa Cruz. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz in the Winter?

Both Santa Cruz and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Cruz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Myrtle Beach is cooler than Santa Cruz in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Santa Cruz fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Santa Cruz. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Santa Cruz in the Spring?

Both Santa Cruz and Myrtle Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Santa Cruz in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Santa Cruz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Myrtle Beach in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Santa Cruz averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in April than Santa Cruz. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Santa Cruz receives 1 inches (26 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Cruz and Myrtle Beach