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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

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 Breckenridge can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a nature-filled, charming, and breathtaking ski resort. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local 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 hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Myrtle Beach and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Breckenridge. Although Myrtle Beach and Breckenridge are both popular with visitors, Breckenridge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Breckenridge is more popular for its skiing, food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Myrtle Beach is known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Breckenridge and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Breckenridge is popular for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment. It is also home to The Family-Friendly Ski Resort.

How is Myrtle Beach different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.

Breckenridge is among the world's best ski destinations. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.


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

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge area. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

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 Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Myrtle Beach just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

Is Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

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 Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for its Old Town?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge offers a nice historic old town area. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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 Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Myrtle Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge is a world class destination for shoppers. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Myrtle Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Myrtle Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge offers plenty of Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Myrtle Beach does not offer Christmas markets.


Is Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

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

Breckenridge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

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 Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

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

Couples visit Breckenridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

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 Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is very good for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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 Breckenridge Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for students. However, Breckenridge is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Breckenridge is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a ski resort with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

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 Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Breckenridge

Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge on foot is easy. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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 Breckenridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Breckenridge or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this busy beach city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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 Breckenridge?

Myrtle Beach 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. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Breckenridge is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the skiing. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this jam-packed destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the skiing. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A week in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

Myrtle Beach 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.

Breckenridge is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. 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.


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, Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge is $200. 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 Breckenridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Breckenridge $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Breckenridge $212
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Breckenridge

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge? 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 Breckenridge


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 Breckenridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Breckenridge $19

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: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $193
  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

Prices for flights to both Breckenridge 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
    Breckenridge $61
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.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Breckenridge $94
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 Breckenridge

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

  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $7.99
  • Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $32
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $33
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Breckenridge $7.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85


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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Breckenridge?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Breckenridge, 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.