A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

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 Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Saint Petersburg travel costs.

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.

Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Saint Petersburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Saint Petersburg 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. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Saint Petersburg different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Myrtle Beach and Saint Petersburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Saint Petersburg is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Saint Petersburg is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Saint Petersburg is an experience not to be missed. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is terrific for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Saint Petersburg is very good for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Saint Petersburg is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

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

Many visitors go to Saint Petersburg to go shopping. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

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

Saint Petersburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

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

Couples visit Saint Petersburg frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not popular with students.

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

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Saint Petersburg is a coastal 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 Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car 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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg
Myrtle Beach

Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach are respectable when it comes to walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Both Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Saint Petersburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg.


  • How many days in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Petersburg 2-4 
    Myrtle Beach 2-7

One day in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this relaxed coastal city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

You'll find nightlife around the high energy destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Saint Petersburg 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. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find nightlife around the busy beach city of Myrtle Beach. If you have a weekend, this beach city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.


Five days in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of Saint Petersburg. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Saint Petersburg 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.

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Saint Petersburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Saint Petersburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Myrtle Beach Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Petersburg $239
    Myrtle Beach $214

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Petersburg is $239, while the average daily cost in Myrtle Beach is $214. 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 Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Petersburg $127
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Petersburg $254
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach? 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 Saint Petersburg


Hotels in Myrtle Beach


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Petersburg $47
    Myrtle Beach $24

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Saint Petersburg 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
    Saint Petersburg $84
    Myrtle Beach $97
Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

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.
    Saint Petersburg $13
    Myrtle Beach $46

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Petersburg $41
    Myrtle Beach $16


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach, we can see that Saint Petersburg is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Myrtle Beach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach, 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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach?

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 Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Myrtle Beach. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Petersburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during autumn. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Saint Petersburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Saint Petersburg is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the winter, Saint Petersburg often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in January than Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Myrtle Beach. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the spring for the beaches. Furthermore, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during spring. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)