A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a bustling, spirited, and luxury coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a busy, jam-packed, and high energy beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Myrtle Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Myrtle Beach is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Fort Lauderdale is well known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Myrtle Beach is well known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale area. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Myrtle Beach is a world class 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.

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Fort Lauderdale is a perfect choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale 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, Fort Lauderdale is a very popular vacation destination. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

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

Many visitors go to Fort Lauderdale to go shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

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

Fort Lauderdale is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Fort Lauderdale has plenty to offer. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for students. However, Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Fort Lauderdale is not popular with students.

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

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

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

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable destination. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable coastal city. By the Boardwalk, it's easy to walk around, but traffic can still be congested and once you're out of the main strip, a car is essential.

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

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Fort Lauderdale has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Myrtle Beach. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this luxury 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.

The party-filled destination of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

Fort Lauderdale is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

In Fort Lauderdale, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this high energy destination offers. 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.

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This beach city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

Fort Lauderdale 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.

The high energy beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

Both Myrtle Beach and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during summer. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In July, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and Fort Lauderdale during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in October than Myrtle Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during winter. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Myrtle Beach. The spring months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the spring, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Myrtle Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Fort Lauderdale