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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Berkeley are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Berkeley attracts visitors for its museums, food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Berkeley is famous for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Myrtle Beach is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Berkeley has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Myrtle Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Myrtle Beach is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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 Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Berkeley. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Both Myrtle Beach and Berkeley are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Myrtle Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great destination for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berkeley is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Myrtle Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The nightlife scene brings the young crowd, but this isn't exactly a backpacker destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Berkeley Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Myrtle Beach and Berkeley are excellent places to visit for students.

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.

Berkeley is a great beach city to visit as a student. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.


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

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Myrtle Beach or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley 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 Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Myrtle Beach and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Berkeley. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

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.

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quirky city offers. 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.


A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

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.

Berkeley is a fun place to experience. 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.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse destination of Berkeley. 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.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

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.

Berkeley is a popular place to visit. 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Myrtle Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Myrtle Beach is $173, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 Myrtle Beach and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Berkeley? 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 Myrtle Beach


Hotels in Berkeley


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 and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Berkeley $30

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $44
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Myrtle Beach 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
    Myrtle Beach $56
    Berkeley $36
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

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Berkeley $30
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:

  • 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: Saltwater Marsh Shelling & Eco Tour: $32
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • The Comedy Shoppe at Wonders Theatre Ticket: $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
  • Escape Room Game Entry Ticket with Host: $41

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Berkeley?

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

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 Myrtle Beach or Berkeley in the Summer?

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

Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Berkeley in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Berkeley in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Berkeley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Myrtle Beach is generally cooler than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Berkeley. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Berkeley in the Spring?

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

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Berkeley in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in April than Berkeley. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)