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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Portland?

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 Portland 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. See Myrtle Beach travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a eclectic, tree-lined, and nature-filled city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland travel costs.

Myrtle Beach and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Portland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Portland, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Portland is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Portland and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portland is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Portland 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.

Portland offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Myrtle Beach is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for its music scene. However, Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Resorts?

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

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Myrtle Beach attract visitors from all over. 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland 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 Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Portland?

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

Many visitors go to Portland to go shopping. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

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 Portland More Beautiful?

Portland is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Myrtle Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Families?

Portland 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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

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 Portland Better for Couples?

Both Myrtle Beach and Portland are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Myrtle Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Myrtle Beach or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Portland is very good for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

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

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Portland?

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

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

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

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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Portland?

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 Portland, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this eclectic city 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 Portland?

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.

Portland 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 Portland?

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 live music around the laid-back destination of Portland. 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 Portland?

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.

Portland 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Portland?

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

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the summer, Myrtle Beach often gets less sunshine than Portland. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Myrtle Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Myrtle Beach often gets more sunshine than Portland. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Portland. The spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives more sunshine than Portland during spring. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Portland. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Myrtle Beach