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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and breathtaking national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, skiing, and food.

Myrtle Beach and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park 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. Shenandoah National Park is famous for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Shenandoah National Park and Myrtle Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is very good for winter skiing. However, Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.

Head to Shenandoah National Park for some great skiing and other winter activities. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park area. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Myrtle Beach is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for 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.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.


Is Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Myrtle Beach is great for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Shenandoah National Park specifically for its hiking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Shopping is a popular activity in both Shenandoah National Park and Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The town is filled with souvenir shops, t-shirt shops, and candy vendors that make shopping entertaining.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Shenandoah National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

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

Couples visit Shenandoah National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

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

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Myrtle Beach is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park is not popular with 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Neither Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Myrtle Beach. There are no real public transit options so you'll need a car to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.


Is Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Shenandoah National Park

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable beach city. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than Shenandoah National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5

One day in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

With nightlife around the jam-packed beach city of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this serene national park 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 Shenandoah National Park?

With nightlife around the jam-packed destination of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this beach city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Shenandoah National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

With nightlife around the high energy beach city of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this beautiful destination offers. 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Shenandoah 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, Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park is $125. 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 Shenandoah National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Shenandoah National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Shenandoah National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Shenandoah National Park $70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105
  • Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $53
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36

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

Prices for flights to both Shenandoah 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28
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
    Shenandoah National Park $34
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and Shenandoah National Park, we can see that Myrtle Beach is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah National Park 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 Myrtle Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Myrtle Beach than you might in Shenandoah National Park.

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 Shenandoah National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park?

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 Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Myrtle Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as Shenandoah National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in July than Shenandoah National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Myrtle Beach in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In October, Myrtle Beach usually receives less rain than Shenandoah National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as Shenandoah National Park. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Shenandoah National Park can be very cold. In January, Myrtle Beach is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 45°F (7°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 32°F (-0°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets more rain in January than Shenandoah National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year.

Myrtle Beach is a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In April, Myrtle Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shenandoah National Park. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach Shenandoah National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)