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

Should you visit Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Myrtle Beach

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

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking, vast, and world-famous national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Myrtle Beach and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Myrtle Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Myrtle Beach is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Myrtle Beach is famous for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. It is also well known for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. Yellowstone National Park is famous for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Yellowstone National Park both to be reasonable destinations.

Myrtle Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.


Is Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Myrtle Beach is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Myrtle Beach is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Myrtle Beach is well known for the beach. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.

Myrtle Beach is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

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

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

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

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Myrtle Beach is a beach city with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

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

Couples visit Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

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

Yellowstone National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Myrtle Beach is well known for students. However, Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.

Myrtle Beach is a very popular beach city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not popular with students.


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

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

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

Myrtle Beach
Yellowstone National Park

Myrtle Beach is a beach city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Myrtle Beach is generally not very walkable. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable beach city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

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

How long in Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Myrtle Beach and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Myrtle Beach, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the jam-packed beach city of Myrtle Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Myrtle Beach. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the nightlife. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Yellowstone National Park 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 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Myrtle Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this beach city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this world-famous 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Myrtle Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the nightlife. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park 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.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Myrtle Beach or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Yellowstone National Park $37

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 Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $46
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
    Yellowstone 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:

  • 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 Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Yellowstone Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-guided tours with Audioguide West Coast Parks U.S.: $27
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone Lake Twilight Tour: $150
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Yellowstone National Park $19


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


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