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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Columbia River Gorge can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a region with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbia River Gorge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

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 Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge 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.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Columbia River Gorge to go shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

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

Columbia River Gorge is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid 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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Columbia River Gorge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Columbia River Gorge Better for Students?

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

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. 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.

Columbia River Gorge is not popular with students.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a region 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 Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

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 Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Myrtle Beach is generally not very walkable. 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.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable beach city. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

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

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge.

One day in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this natural region offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Columbia River Gorge is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Myrtle Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the beach city of Myrtle Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city has to offer.

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

A week in Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the busy destination of Myrtle Beach. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Myrtle Beach, one week is sufficent for most.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Columbia River Gorge, 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 Columbia River Gorge?

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 Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the summer temperatures in Myrtle Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Myrtle Beach is generally a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Columbia River Gorge. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

Both Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Columbia River Gorge can be very cold during winter. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

Both Columbia River Gorge 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. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Myrtle Beach is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the spring temperatures in Myrtle Beach in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the spring, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Myrtle Beach