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

Should you visit Duck or Myrtle Beach?

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

Should I visit Duck 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.

Duck

Duck is a laid-back, traditional, and compact beach town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, 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.

Duck and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

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

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Duck different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Duck is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Duck offers a few options for museum-goers. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Duck is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Duck area. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is renowned for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach 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 Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

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

Duck has a few great resort options. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Duck 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, Duck is a very popular vacation destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Hiking?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Duck. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Duck 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 Duck. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

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

Duck is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

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

Couples visit Duck frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for students. However, Duck is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. University students flock to the area for spring break and end of year celebrations. If you're a student during those times, this is the place to be, otherwise, the area is best avoided.

Duck is not popular with students.


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

Duck
Myrtle Beach

Duck is a beach town with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

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 Duck or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Duck
Myrtle Beach

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

Getting around Duck on foot is easy. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach 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 Duck Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Duck?

How long in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Both Duck and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Duck has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Duck than Myrtle Beach. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Duck, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Duck or Myrtle Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Duck 5-7 
    Myrtle Beach 2-7

One day in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Duck is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Duck might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed destination of Myrtle Beach. This beach city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Duck is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the party-filled beach city of Myrtle Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Duck?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Duck is $188, 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 Duck and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Duck $107
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Duck $214
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Duck and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Duck 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 Duck


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: Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Duck $66
    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 Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Duck 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
    Duck $45
    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.
    Duck $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:

  • 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
    Duck $45
    Myrtle Beach $16


When comparing the travel costs between Duck and Myrtle Beach, we can see that Duck 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 Duck Expensive? and Is Myrtle Beach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Duck or Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck 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 Duck 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 Duck or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Duck and Myrtle Beach. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Duck this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Duck is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 78°F (26°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 Duck, it's very sunny this time of the year. Duck usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during summer. Duck gets 279 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. Duck gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Duck usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Duck 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
    Duck 78°F (26°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Duck or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Duck as well as Myrtle Beach. Many travelers come to Duck for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Duck is cooler than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 62°F (16°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 Duck this time of the year. In the autumn, Duck often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Duck gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets more rain in October than Myrtle Beach. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Duck 62°F (16°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Duck or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Duck are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Duck 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.

Duck can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Duck is cooler than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Duck in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

Duck usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during winter. Duck gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Duck. In January, Duck usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Duck 41°F (5°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Duck or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

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

In April, Duck is generally cooler than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 59°F (15°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 Duck. In the spring, Duck often gets less sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Duck gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun.

Duck usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Myrtle Beach. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Duck 59°F (15°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Duck

Duck Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)