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

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a energetic, lively, and fun beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and live music.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its music, while Myrtle Beach attracts visitors for its beaches. Daytona Beach is famous for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also well known for The Daytona International Speedway. Myrtle Beach is famous for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene.

How is Daytona Beach different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Both Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Daytona Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

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 Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Both Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach are world-class when it comes to partying.

Daytona Beach is a world class party destination. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

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.

Is Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Daytona Beach is very good for its music scene. However, Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Daytona Beach. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach offer a relatively similar set of reasonable luxury resort options.

You might not think of Daytona Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

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 Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for the beach. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for its beaches.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Daytona Beach to enjoy the beach. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Both Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach are reasonable shopping destinations.

Daytona Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

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 Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

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

Daytona Beach is not the most family-friendly destination. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

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 Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

With fun activities for couples, both Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach make for a nice place to visit.

Daytona Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

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 Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Daytona Beach is a world-class destination for students. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Daytona Beach. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

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.

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

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Neither Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

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 Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

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.

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

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

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

In Daytona Beach, many people enjoy the live music and nightlife that this fun beach city offers. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed destination of Myrtle Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Daytona Beach is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

You'll find live music and nightlife around the party-hard destination of Daytona Beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the high energy destination of Myrtle Beach. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Daytona Beach 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the beach city of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Daytona Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $211, 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 Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach 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 Daytona Beach


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: Daytona Beach Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Myrtle Beach $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

  • Private Transfer from Daytona to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $200
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $184
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Port Canaveral: $239

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 to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $104

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Daytona Beach 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
    Daytona Beach $80
    Myrtle Beach $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Daytona Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Daytona Beach.

  • Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show Ticket in Daytona Beach: $53

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.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Myrtle Beach $46

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

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

  • St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park : $28
  • Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon with Experienced Captain: $32
  • The Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour: $40
  • Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour in New Smyrna Beach: $45
  • Zipline Adventure through Tuscawilla Park: $59
  • New Smyrna Dolphin and Manatee Kayak and SUP Adventure Tour: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65
  • Ormond Beach Manatee and Nature Tour Kayaking or Paddle Boarding: $65
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Sailing Tour in Daytona Beach: $79

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:

  • 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: Saltwater Marsh Shelling & Eco Tour: $32
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $40
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour: $40
  • The Comedy Shoppe at Wonders Theatre Ticket: $40
  • Waccamaw River Nature and Wildlife Tour: $41
  • Escape Room Game Entry Ticket with Host: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Myrtle Beach $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Daytona Beach

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Daytona Beach:

  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $38
  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl from Daytona Beach: $40


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


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Myrtle Beach. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Daytona Beach is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Daytona Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Myrtle Beach. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Daytona Beach in October average around 74°F (23°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 65°F (18°C).

Daytona Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Myrtle Beach. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

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

In January, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

Both Myrtle Beach and Daytona Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 69°F (21°C) in April, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in April than Myrtle Beach. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)