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

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

Myrtle Beach

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

Yosemite National Park

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

Myrtle Beach and Yosemite 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach. Although Myrtle Beach and Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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. Yosemite National Park is famous for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Myrtle Beach different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Foodies will find both Myrtle Beach and Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.


Is Myrtle Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Myrtle Beach is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Myrtle Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for the beach. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Myrtle Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

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

Many people visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

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

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Myrtle Beach is a moderate beach city for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Myrtle Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

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

Couples visit Yosemite National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Myrtle Beach is a well-known place for students. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not popular with students.


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

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very good for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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 Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Myrtle Beach
Yosemite National Park

Myrtle Beach and Yosemite National Park both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable beach city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Myrtle Beach or Yosemite National Park?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Myrtle Beach or Yosemite National Park?

The beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking 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 Yosemite National Park?

The high energy destination of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. This beach city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. The destination of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach city.

Yosemite 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, Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Myrtle Beach $88
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Myrtle Beach $176
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Myrtle Beach and Yosemite National Park

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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Myrtle Beach $24
    Yosemite National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Myrtle Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Myrtle Beach:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36
  • Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) - Departure Private Transfer: $52
  • Myrtle Beach Intl. Airport (MYR) to Myrtle Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $105

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $40
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
    Yosemite National Park $19
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 Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite: Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite: Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Valley Tour with Transport from Oakhurst: $130
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite’s High Country Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $190
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Myrtle Beach $16
    Yosemite National Park $11


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