A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Myrtle Beach?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches.

Key West and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Key West and Myrtle Beach are both popular with visitors, Myrtle Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Myrtle Beach is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Key West is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Myrtle Beach is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also home to the Myrtle Beach boardwalk.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Key West different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key West 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 Key West area. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Key West is a great destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

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 Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West 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 Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Myrtle Beach are great choices.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place to visit for its 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 Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

Both Key West and Myrtle Beach are decent shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Key West has some nice offerings. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Myrtle Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Is Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

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

Key West is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Key West frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

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 Key West or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Key West and Myrtle Beach are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

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

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

Neither Key West or Myrtle Beach offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

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 Key West or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Key West is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable 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 Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Key West?

How long in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

In Key West, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid-back town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

The beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

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

Myrtle Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

In Key West, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Myrtle Beach?

Key West is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Myrtle Beach has to offer. This beach city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Myrtle Beach, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Myrtle Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Myrtle Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Myrtle Beach and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Myrtle Beach.

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Myrtle Beach?

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

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

In the summer, Key West is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during summer. Key West gets 328 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. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

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

In October, Key West is generally a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), 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 Key West this time of the year. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Myrtle Beach. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

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

Key West is much warmer than Myrtle Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Myrtle Beach. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Key West