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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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 Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back beach destination. 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 food.

Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod attracts visitors for its food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Cape Cod 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. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod is an experience not to be missed. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

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 Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

Myrtle Beach is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Myrtle Beach is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

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

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Myrtle Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. While there are a handful of resorts in the area, like the popular Marriott Vacation Club, most hotels are crowded and lacking in space.

Is Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod are high quality choices for a beach vacation.

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.


Is Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

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 Cape Cod Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

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

Cape Cod is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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 Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

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

Couples visit Cape Cod frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

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 Cape Cod Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

Myrtle Beach is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beach destination 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 Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

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 Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Cape Cod

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

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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 Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than Cape Cod 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 Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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.

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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.

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

A week in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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.

Cape Cod 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.


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, Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod is $183. 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 Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod? 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 Cape Cod


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $104
  • Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $60
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
    Cape Cod $27
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

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Cape Cod $19


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



When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod?

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 Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod in the Summer?

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

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Cape Cod. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)