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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

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

Myrtle Beach

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

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Myrtle Beach and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Monterey 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 Monterey attracts visitors for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Monterey 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. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

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

Many visitors head to Monterey specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Monterey 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 Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Myrtle Beach has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Myrtle Beach or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

Monterey 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 Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Monterey Better for Families?

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

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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 Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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 Monterey Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey 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.

Monterey is not popular with students.

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

Monterey is a city 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 Monterey. There is a bus system through 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 Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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 Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Myrtle Beach and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Monterey. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

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 Monterey, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this laid back city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

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.

Monterey 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 Monterey?

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 nightlife and food around the laid back destination of Monterey. 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 Monterey?

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.

Monterey 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Myrtle Beach and Monterey, 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Monterey. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Monterey because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Monterey. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Myrtle Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In January, Myrtle Beach is generally cooler than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Monterey. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Monterey. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Myrtle Beach