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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

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

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Richmond

Richmond is a friendly, historical, and growing city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and Richmond: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Richmond 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 Richmond attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Richmond and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Richmond is famous for its cultural and historical sights.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

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

Many visitors head to Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Richmond is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Richmond area. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

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 Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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 Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Myrtle Beach or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Myrtle Beach is notable for the beach. However, Richmond is not a beach destination.

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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

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

Many visitors go to Richmond to go shopping. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

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 Richmond Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Richmond 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 Richmond. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

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 Richmond Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Both Myrtle Beach and Richmond are nice 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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

Is Myrtle Beach or Richmond Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Myrtle Beach is notable for students. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Myrtle Beach is very popular with students. 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.

Plenty of students visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

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

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

Richmond 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 Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

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 Richmond a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Richmond

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

Richmond is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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 Richmond Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Richmond or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Myrtle Beach than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Richmond? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Richmond 1-2

One day in Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

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 Richmond, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historical 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 Richmond?

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.

Richmond 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 Richmond?

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 museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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.

Richmond 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.


Which place is cheaper, Richmond 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 Richmond is $161. 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 Richmond in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Richmond $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Richmond $202
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Richmond

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Richmond? 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 Richmond


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 Richmond Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Richmond $72

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: $53
  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Richmond

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Richmond:

  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $72
  • Richmond Airport (RIC) to Richmond city - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Richmond City to Richmond Airport (RIC) - Departure Private Transfer: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

Prices for flights to both Richmond 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
    Richmond $21
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Richmond

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Richmond.

  • The Carytown Food Tour in Richmond: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour in Richmond, VA: $80
  • Church Hill Food Tour: $80
  • Trendy Carytown Food Tour: $80
  • Arts District Food Tour in Richmond: $85
  • Arts District Walking Food Tour: $85
  • Delicious Pizza & Ice Cream Tour of Richmond: $90
  • Pizza & Ice Cream Tour: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $46
    Richmond $13
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:

  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Myrtle Beach, SC: $15
  • Ghosts and Pirates Haunted City Walking Tour: $26
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Myrtle Beach Ghosts Tour: $30
  • Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Shelling & Eco Tour: $32
  • Myrtle Beach Military History Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • The Comedy Shoppe at Wonders Theatre Ticket: $40
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach History, Movies and Music Trolley Tour: $40
  • Waccamaw River Nature and Wildlife Tour: $41
  • Escape Room Game Entry Ticket with Host: $41

Tours and Activities in Richmond

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Richmond are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Richmond by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Hollywood Cemetery Tour Richmond Lore and Civil War: $24
  • Church Hill Chillers Ghost Tour: $25
  • Richmond Ghosts: Sinister Scares of Shockoe Bottom Tour: $26
  • Haunted Capitol Hill Ghost Tour: $30
  • Court End Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Monroe Park Campus Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Church Hill Guided Ghost Tour: $30
  • Downtown & Capitol Square Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Capitol Hill Ghost Walking Tour with A Guide: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Richmond -

Sample the Local Flavors in Richmond

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Richmond:

  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl : $34
  • Richmond Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Drink Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl: $74
  • Richmond Craft Brewery Crawl By Junket: $74
  • Brewery Tour of Richmond, VA: $90


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


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Richmond. The summer months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Richmond this time of year.

Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Richmond in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Myrtle Beach usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during summer. Myrtle Beach gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. Myrtle Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Richmond. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Richmond 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Richmond in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Richmond. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Richmond for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Richmond. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Richmond averages at about 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In the autumn, Myrtle Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Myrtle Beach gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in October than Richmond. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Richmond 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Richmond in the Winter?

Both Richmond and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Richmond in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Richmond can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Richmond fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond during winter. Myrtle Beach gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than Richmond. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Richmond 36°F (2°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Richmond in the Spring?

Both Richmond and Myrtle Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Richmond in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. In the spring, Myrtle Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Myrtle Beach gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

Myrtle Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Richmond. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Richmond 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Richmond and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Richmond
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (83 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.8 inches (98 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 77°F (25°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 71°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)