A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Myrtle Beach can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a lively, ancient, and archeological town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Myrtle Beach

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

Tulum and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Myrtle Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Myrtle Beach is more popular for its big city activities. Tulum is well known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Myrtle Beach is well known for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene.

How is Tulum different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Tulum is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Tulum on the map. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tulum is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Tulum is an experience not to be missed. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Both Tulum and Myrtle Beach are amazing when it comes to partying.

Tulum is a must-see party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

Myrtle Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Is Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Tulum is a perfect choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum is not to be missed. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Tulum is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Myrtle Beach is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Tulum is a very popular vacation destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

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.

Is Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Myrtle Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Tulum is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Tulum. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in 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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Tulum is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Tulum is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Tulum 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, Tulum has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great destination for backpackers. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tulum is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

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

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Tulum 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 Tulum, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

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

Tulum is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable town. 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 Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Both Tulum and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Myrtle Beach than in Tulum. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

In Tulum, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this ancient 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.

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this busy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Tulum 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Myrtle Beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

In Tulum, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this lively 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.

Myrtle Beach is a fun place to experience. In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Tulum 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.

In Myrtle Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife that this party-filled destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Myrtle Beach, 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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach?

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 Tulum or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Myrtle Beach. Many visitors come to Tulum in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Myrtle Beach during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

Myrtle Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tulum usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to Tulum for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Tulum is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the autumn, Tulum often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Myrtle Beach. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Should I visit Tulum or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Tulum because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Myrtle Beach. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

Both Myrtle Beach and Tulum during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Tulum is generally much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Myrtle Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the spring, Tulum often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Myrtle Beach. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Tulum