A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

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 South Lake Tahoe can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a high energy, party-filled, and busy beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and beaches.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a idyllic, scenic, and breathtaking town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Myrtle Beach and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and South Lake Tahoe are both popular with visitors, Myrtle Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Myrtle Beach is more popular for its beaches and big city activities, while South Lake Tahoe is known for its skiing, museums, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than South Lake Tahoe and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also home to the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. South Lake Tahoe is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Myrtle Beach is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

South Lake Tahoe is a town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

South Lake Tahoe offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe area. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe has a better nightlife scene.

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.

The nightlife in South Lake Tahoe is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

Is Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

South Lake Tahoe is a great destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in South Lake Tahoe. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

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.

Is Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for the beache. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Myrtle Beach. 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

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

Many visitors go to South Lake Tahoe to go shopping. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, South Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

South Lake Tahoe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for students. However, South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not popular with students.

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

South Lake Tahoe is a town 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 South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

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 South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

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

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable destination. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

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 South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

One day in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find nightlife around the high energy destination of Myrtle Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In South Lake Tahoe, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic town 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 South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find nightlife around the high energy beach city of Myrtle Beach. If you have a weekend, this beach city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

South Lake Tahoe is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In South Lake Tahoe, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this scenic 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

South Lake Tahoe 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that Myrtle Beach is more expensive. And not only is South Lake Tahoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to South Lake Tahoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

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 South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and South Lake Tahoe, 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.