A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

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 Grand Canyon National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a party-filled, busy, and jam-packed beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a gorgeous, striking, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Myrtle Beach and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the sunset views


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is well known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Grand Canyon National Park is well known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Grand Canyon National Park both to be respectable destinations.

Myrtle Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.


Is Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Myrtle Beach is renowned for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is very good for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Myrtle Beach for it's beautiful 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Grand Canyon National Park has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Canyon National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not popular with students.


Is Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a national park 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

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 Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

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 Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Grand Canyon National Park 1-4

One day in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this party-filled destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Grand Canyon National Park, many people enjoy the that this striking national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this high energy destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This beach city offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the breathtaking destination of Grand Canyon National Park. 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this beach city offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this beach city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Grand Canyon National Park 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.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park is $168. 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 Grand Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Grand Canyon National Park $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Grand Canyon National Park $178
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Grand Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park? 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 Grand Canyon National Park


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 Grand Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Grand Canyon National Park $43

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Grand Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Canyon National Park 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
    Grand Canyon National Park $49
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
    Grand Canyon National Park $35
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
  • 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
  • Kayak Salt Marsh Maze Tour: $45
  • 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 Grand Canyon National Park

For Grand Canyon National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Grand Canyon South & East Rim Self-Driving, Walking & Shuttling Tour: $17
  • Grand Canyon and Sedona Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle: $25
  • Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving and Walking Tour Bundle: $30
  • Take a Scottsdale/Valley Tour in a Retro Party Bus - Old Town/Scottsdale: $69
  • Ultimate American Southwest Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views: $121
  • Grand Entrance Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $122
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour : $123
  • Desert View Grand Canyon Tour - Pink Jeep: $143
  • 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
  • Hermits Rest Hiking Tour from Tusayan: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Grand Canyon National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Grand Canyon National Park, we can see that Myrtle Beach 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 Grand Canyon National Park Expensive?.