A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach? 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a vibrant, fun-filled, and diverse beach area. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a jam-packed, high energy, and party-filled beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

West Palm Beach and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than West Palm Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its party-hard atmosphere, spring break crowds, and beachfront nightlife scene. Also, Myrtle Beach is famous for the Myrtle Beach boardwalk. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is West Palm Beach different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both West Palm Beach and Myrtle Beach offer respectable local cuisine and restaurants.

West Palm Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Myrtle Beach. 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 West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Myrtle Beach is very popular for nightlife. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for nightlife and partying.

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.

West Palm Beach offers plenty to do in the evening. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

Is West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach 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, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four 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 West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Myrtle Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach 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, West Palm Beach is a very popular vacation destination. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

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 the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach is adequate for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

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

West Palm Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

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 West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit West Palm Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

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 West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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 West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

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

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable beach area. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable beach area. 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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

Both West Palm Beach and Myrtle Beach have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, West Palm Beach has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in West Palm Beach than Myrtle Beach. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Myrtle Beach than West Palm 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 Myrtle Beach.

One day in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this fun-filled beach area 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.

The party-filled destination of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

West Palm Beach 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 beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this fun-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 beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Myrtle Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This beach city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

West Palm 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 high energy beach city of Myrtle Beach offers nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Myrtle Beach. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Myrtle Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the summer, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in July than Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Myrtle Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during autumn. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and West Palm Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the winter, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Myrtle Beach fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Myrtle Beach this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Myrtle Beach during spring. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Myrtle Beach. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and West Palm Beach