A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Myrtle Beach vs. The Hamptons for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

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 The Hamptons can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a busy, jam-packed, and high energy beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Myrtle Beach and The Hamptons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while The Hamptons is more popular for its food, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than The Hamptons and is known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons area. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

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 The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

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 The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for its beaches. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

The Hamptons offers a nice beach destination. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.


Is Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting The Hamptons. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons is a world class destination for shoppers. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

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 The Hamptons Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.

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 The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

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

Couples visit The Hamptons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

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 The Hamptons Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for students. However, The Hamptons 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.

The Hamptons is not popular with students.

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

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

Neither Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.


Is Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable beach destination. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a 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 The Hamptons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Myrtle Beach?

How long in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

Both Myrtle Beach and The Hamptons have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, The Hamptons has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than The Hamptons 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 Myrtle Beach.


  • How many days in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Myrtle Beach 2-7 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this busy beach city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

In The Hamptons, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this wealthy beach destination offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 The Hamptons?

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The Hamptons 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. Lots of people come for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this party-filled destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. 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 nightlife. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In The Hamptons, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this wealthy destination offers. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 shopping. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

Myrtle Beach is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

The Hamptons is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons is $223. 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 The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons? 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 The Hamptons


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
    The Hamptons $63

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: $52
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons 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
    The Hamptons $60
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
    The Hamptons $22
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    The Hamptons $31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Myrtle Beach and The Hamptons, we can see that The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Myrtle Beach and The Hamptons, 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 The Hamptons?

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 The Hamptons in the Summer?

Both The Hamptons and Myrtle Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Myrtle Beach is around the same temperature as The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Myrtle Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in The Hamptons. It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. In July, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Myrtle Beach gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

Both The Hamptons and Myrtle Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 The Hamptons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Myrtle Beach is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Myrtle Beach average around 65°F (18°C), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in October than The Hamptons. Myrtle Beach gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Myrtle Beach and The Hamptons. Most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in The Hamptons can be very cold. Myrtle Beach is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Myrtle Beach averages around 45°F (7°C) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In January, Myrtle Beach usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Myrtle Beach gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C) 
    The Hamptons 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Myrtle Beach or The Hamptons in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Myrtle Beach as well as The Hamptons. The spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to The Hamptons this time of year.

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

Myrtle Beach usually gets less rain in April than The Hamptons. Myrtle Beach gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)