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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

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 San Francisco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

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

San Francisco

San Francisco is a one-of-a-kind, scenic, and beautiful coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, theater, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco. Although Myrtle Beach and San Francisco are popular destinations, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Myrtle Beach attracts visitors for its nightlife and resorts. Myrtle Beach is famous for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. San Francisco is famous for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge.

How is Myrtle Beach different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put San Francisco on the map. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Myrtle Beach or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Myrtle Beach is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Myrtle Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Myrtle Beach or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco 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 San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Myrtle Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach and San Francisco are excellent choices for a beach vacation.

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Francisco. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Is Myrtle Beach or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

San Francisco is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 San Francisco Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit San Francisco frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

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 San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

San Francisco is a very popular coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

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 San Francisco Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach and San Francisco are excellent places to visit for students.

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.

San Francisco is a great beach city to visit as a student. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

San Francisco is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in San Francisco can get you around easily. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 San Francisco a more walkable city?

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

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

Both Myrtle Beach and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, San Francisco has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Francisco than Myrtle Beach. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 San Francisco.

One day in Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the busy destination of Myrtle Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the busy destination of Myrtle Beach. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the beach city of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. And not only is Myrtle Beach much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Myrtle Beach would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Myrtle Beach and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in San Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco than you might in Myrtle Beach.

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 San Francisco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than San Francisco. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and San Francisco. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as San Francisco. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or San Francisco in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as San Francisco. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Myrtle Beach is generally cooler than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as San Francisco. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

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

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Myrtle Beach