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

Should you visit Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada 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.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Islamorada and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Islamorada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Islamorada is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Islamorada and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Islamorada different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Islamorada 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 Islamorada. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Islamorada 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 Islamorada is an experience not to be missed. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is renowned for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Islamorada. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

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

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Islamorada 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 Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Both Islamorada and Myrtle Beach have excellent beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Islamorada. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

The beaches at Myrtle Beach attract visitors from all over. 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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

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

Many visitors go to Islamorada to go shopping. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

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

Islamorada is one of the most popular family destinations. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Islamorada 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, Islamorada has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its student-friendly activities. However, Islamorada 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.

Islamorada is not popular with students.


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

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Neither Islamorada or Myrtle Beach offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Is Islamorada or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach 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.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Both Islamorada and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Islamorada has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Islamorada than Myrtle Beach. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

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


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

One day in Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this tropical village 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.

With nightlife around the party-filled beach city of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Islamorada 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With nightlife around the destination of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach city.

Five days in Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this adventurous 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Myrtle Beach, a popular beach city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Islamorada 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.

Myrtle Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Islamorada?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $145, 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 Islamorada and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada 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 Islamorada


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Myrtle Beach $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105
  • Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $47
    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.
    Islamorada $19
    Myrtle Beach $46

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Islamorada.

  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • Night Tour Glass Bottom Boat in Islamorada: $80
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • Snorkeling Adventure in Islamorada : $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure from Cheeca Spa: $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150

Typical Entertainment Prices in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few typical costs in Myrtle Beach for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Mini Golf for Two
    $18
  • Beach Chairs
    $15

Tours and Activities in Myrtle Beach

Here are a few actual costs in Myrtle Beach for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach: $69
  • Day Trip to Charleston Tour #5: Bus Tour, Boone Plantation, Lunch and More: $120
  • Day Trips to Charleston#7 See Ft Sumter,CarriageTour,Lunch & more: $215
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Friday Night Flights Local Beer Tour in Myrtle Beach: $90
  • From Charleston Tour with Boone Hall & Cruise: $173
  • Kayak Salt Marsh Maze Tour: $45
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Myrtle Beach, SC: $15
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Shelling & Eco Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Myrtle Beach $16


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

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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada 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 Islamorada or Myrtle Beach?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Islamorada or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Myrtle Beach. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene 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.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Islamorada. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Myrtle Beach. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Islamorada during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Myrtle Beach. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Myrtle Beach. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Islamorada

Islamorada Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)