A Travel Price Comparison for South Carolina Beaufort vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Beaufort or Myrtle Beach, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a character-filled, southern, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and food.

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.

Beaufort and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Beaufort, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Beaufort is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Beaufort 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. Beaufort is well known for its Lowcountry cuisine and historic homes.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Beaufort different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Beaufort 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 Beaufort. The town's museums highlight the region's past. There are four popular museums that you can visit - the Beaufort History Museum, Parris Island Museum, Verdier House Museum, and York W. Bailey Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Beaufort 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 Beaufort is an experience not to be missed. Soak up the charming atmosphere by dining at one of the local restaurants. Many serve Lowcountry cuisine which includes She-crab soup, fried green tomatoes, shrimp burgers, and barbecue.

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 Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is renowned for nightlife. However, Beaufort is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Myrtle Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Beaufort. You'll find bars, grills, and taverns in town, but most people don't visit for the nightlife scene.

Is Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

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

Beaufort is not a resort destination.


Is Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is notable for its beaches. Also, Beaufort is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beache.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Beaufort. The town has a nice waterfront, but you have to head about half an hour out of town for a real beach. One of the best options is Hunting Island State Park.

Is Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for its Old Town?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Beaufort is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Beaufort. Historic homes, some that were built before the Civil War, offer a glimpse into the past. Beaufort is the second oldest town in South Carolina and it holds on to much of its charm and character.

Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

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

Many visitors go to Beaufort to go shopping. Head downtown for some souvenir shopping or to check out the art galleries or fashion boutiques.

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 Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Most people don't think of either Beaufort or Myrtle Beach as a family destination.

Beaufort is not the most family-friendly destination. There are parks and outdoor activities in the area, but one of the best options is to head out of town to the beach.

Myrtle Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. 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 Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

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

Couples visit Beaufort frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many charming and romantic spots around town as well as historic inns where you can stay. Couples will enjoy the waterfront area or exploring one of the nature parks that are nearby. There are also quaint local restaurants that make for a nice date night.

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 Beaufort or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is notable for students. However, Beaufort is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. 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.

Beaufort is not popular with students.


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

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Neither Beaufort or Myrtle Beach offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Beaufort. There is no reliable public transportation system in the area.

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 Beaufort or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Beaufort
Myrtle Beach

Beaufort is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Beaufort is a very walkable destination. The quaint downtown is walkable and offers easy access to art galleries, restaurants, and shops.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Beaufort Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Beaufort?

How long in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Both Beaufort 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 Beaufort. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Beaufort, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than Beaufort 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 Myrtle Beach.


  • How many days in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Beaufort 1-3 
    Myrtle Beach 2-7

One day in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Beaufort is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

The beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Beaufort is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Myrtle Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Beaufort is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Beaufort is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer. This beach city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Beaufort?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaufort is $131, while the average daily cost in Myrtle Beach is $173. 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 Beaufort and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaufort $100
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaufort $200
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Beaufort and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Beaufort 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 Beaufort


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: Beaufort Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $86

Is it cheaper to fly into Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Beaufort 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
    Beaufort $31
    Myrtle Beach $56

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.

  • Murder Mystery Dinner Show in Myrtle Beach: $50
  • Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach: $67
  • North Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat: $70
  • Luau with Polynesian Dinner and Live Show: $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaufort -
    Myrtle Beach $46

Tours and Activities in Beaufort

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Beaufort are as follows:

  • Historic City Tour by Bus: $29
  • Local History and Film Sites Tour by golf cart: $32
  • Pat Conroy's Beaufort Tour by Golf Cart: $40
  • Gullah Heritage Tour: $49
  • Beaufort Tipsy Tour: $55

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:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Myrtle Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Myrtle Beach, SC: $15
  • Ghosts and Pirates Haunted City Walking Tour: $26
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Myrtle Beach Ghosts Tour: $30
  • Murrells Inlet: Bird Watching Eco Tour: $32
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour: $40
  • Waccamaw River Nature and Wildlife Tour: $41
  • 60-Minute Escape Game Adventures in Myrtle Beach: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Beaufort -
    Myrtle Beach $16


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

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


Which is Bigger, Beaufort or Myrtle Beach?

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

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 Beaufort or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Beaufort and Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In Beaufort, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during summer. Beaufort gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Beaufort gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Beaufort gets 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Beaufort or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Beaufort as well as Myrtle Beach. The autumn months attract visitors to Beaufort because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

Beaufort is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beaufort averages around 68°F (20°C) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beaufort this time of the year. In the autumn, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Beaufort gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Myrtle Beach. Beaufort gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Beaufort 68°F (20°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Beaufort is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaufort in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Beaufort usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during winter. Beaufort gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beaufort usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Beaufort 48°F (9°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Beaufort or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

Both Myrtle Beach and Beaufort during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beaufort for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Beaufort is generally a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Beaufort average around 67°F (19°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaufort. In the spring, Beaufort often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Beaufort gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun.

Beaufort usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Myrtle Beach. Beaufort gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Beaufort 67°F (19°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Beaufort

Beaufort Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 58°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 67°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)