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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma 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.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. The famous beauty of Sonoma is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Sonoma travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Myrtle Beach and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Myrtle Beach attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Myrtle Beach is famous for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Sonoma is famous for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery.

How is Myrtle Beach different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sonoma is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Sonoma has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for nightlife.

Myrtle Beach is a must-see party destination. 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.

Sonoma offers plenty to do in the evening. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Is Myrtle Beach or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Sonoma is a great destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Sonoma. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

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.

Is Myrtle Beach or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach and Sonoma are superb 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 Sonoma. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Is Myrtle Beach or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Sonoma 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 Sonoma. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

Sonoma is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

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 Sonoma More Beautiful?

Sonoma is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Sonoma is one of the main draws. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Myrtle Beach or Sonoma Better for Families?

Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

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 Sonoma Better for Couples?

Sonoma is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Sonoma has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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 Sonoma Better for Students?

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

Sonoma is not popular with students.

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

Neither Myrtle Beach or Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Myrtle Beach or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Sonoma is not known for its walkability.

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.

Sonoma is not a walkable beach city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Myrtle Beach or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

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

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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Sonoma, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this serene county 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 Sonoma?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sonoma is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed destination of Myrtle Beach. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Sonoma 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 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 Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma 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 Sonoma would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sonoma 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 Sonoma Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Sonoma?

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

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma 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 Sonoma in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Sonoma in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Sonoma. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Sonoma in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Sonoma. 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 Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Sonoma in the Winter?

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

In January, Myrtle Beach is generally around the same temperature as Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Sonoma. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Sonoma in the Spring?

Both Sonoma 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. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Myrtle Beach