A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Myrtle Beach for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a secluded, natural, and relaxing island. Other popular activities here include museums, beaches, and hiking.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a party-filled, busy, and jam-packed beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches.

Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Jekyll Island attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Jekyll Island different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

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

Jekyll Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

If luxury resorts are your style, both Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach have reasonable options.

You might not think of Jekyll Island as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Both Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach are considered to be superb beach destinations.

The beaches at Jekyll Island attract visitors from all over. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Many people visit Myrtle Beach for it's beautiful beaches. 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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Jekyll Island is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Shoppers can find a variety of reasonable stores in both Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach.

Jekyll Island has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

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

Jekyll Island is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Both Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Jekyll Island is a good island for couples to visit. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.


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

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Neither Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its 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.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

Both Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Myrtle Beach 2-7

One day in Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

In Jekyll Island, many people enjoy the museums that this natural island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 busy 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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

You'll find museums around the natural destination of Jekyll Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the party-filled 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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

Jekyll Island is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Jekyll Island?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $156, 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 Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island


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: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    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 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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $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.
    Jekyll Island $10
    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:

  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach: $69
  • 60-Minute Escape Game Adventures in Myrtle Beach: $41
  • 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
  • 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
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Myrtle Beach $16


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



When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

Both Myrtle Beach and Jekyll Island during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the summer, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in July than Myrtle Beach. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 65°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during autumn. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Myrtle Beach. The winter months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

In January, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in January than Myrtle Beach. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

Both Myrtle Beach and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during spring. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)