A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Charleston for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ocean City or Charleston?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ocean City or Charleston? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a fun-filled, laid back, and active city. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Charleston

Charleston is a quaint, historic, and classic coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Ocean City and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ocean City or Charleston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Ocean City and Charleston are popular destinations, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Ocean City attracts visitors for its nightlife and resorts. Ocean City is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park.

How is Ocean City different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charleston and Ocean City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Charleston?

Charleston is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its museums and history.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Ocean City has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Ocean City is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Ocean City is not a live music destination.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Ocean City is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Ocean City is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ocean City and Charleston are very good choices.

Ocean City is considered a top beach destination. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Charleston is revered around the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Charleston?

Charleston is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Ocean City is not a good city for shopping.

Charleston is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a well-known place for its Christmas activities. However, Ocean City does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is an extremely popular place to visit during the Christmas season. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Ocean City does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Ocean City does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Ocean City does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Families?

Ocean City is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Ocean City is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Charleston is a family-friendly city. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Ocean City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for students. However, Ocean City is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Ocean City is not popular with students.

Is Ocean City or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Ocean City and Charleston offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Ocean City or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable city. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Charleston?

Both Ocean City and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than Ocean City. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Ocean City 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 Charleston.

One day in Ocean City or Charleston?

With food and nightlife around the fun-filled city of Ocean City, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

With live music and food around the picturesque coastal town of Charleston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Ocean City or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Ocean City, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the destination of Charleston, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Ocean City or Charleston?

Ocean City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Charleston?

Ocean City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Ocean City and Charleston, we can see that Charleston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ocean City Expensive? and Is Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ocean City or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Ocean City and Charleston, 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 Ocean City or Charleston?

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 Ocean City or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Ocean City are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ocean City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ocean City is cooler than Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 77°F (25°C) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Charleston. It's quite rainy in Ocean City. In July, Ocean City usually receives less rain than Charleston. Ocean City gets 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ocean City or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston and Ocean City during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ocean City in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Ocean City is cooler than Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ocean City in October average around 58°F (14°C), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°C).

Ocean City usually gets more rain in October than Charleston. Ocean City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ocean City or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ocean City and Charleston. Most visitors come to Ocean City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ocean City can be very cold during winter. In January, Ocean City is generally much colder than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Ocean City average around 35°F (2°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In January, Ocean City usually receives more rain than Charleston. Ocean City gets 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ocean City or Charleston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ocean City as well as Charleston. The spring months attract visitors to Ocean City because of the beaches. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

Ocean City is cooler than Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Ocean City averages around 54°F (12°C) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Ocean City usually gets more rain in April than Charleston. Ocean City gets 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Ocean City