A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Wilmington vs. Myrtle Beach for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington or Myrtle Beach, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Wilmington and Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Myrtle Beach than Wilmington, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Myrtle Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and big city activities, while Wilmington is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping. Myrtle Beach is more touristy than Wilmington 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. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

the Myrtle Beach boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach boardwalk

How is Wilmington different from Myrtle Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Wilmington is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Wilmington. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

Myrtle Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Wilmington is very good for its restaurant scene. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Wilmington area. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Myrtle Beach is a world class party destination. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for Resorts?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


Is Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Both Wilmington and Myrtle Beach have excellent beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Wilmington. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

The beaches at Myrtle Beach attract visitors from all over. 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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Wilmington is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington offers a nice historic old town area. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Myrtle Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Wilmington is very good for its shopping areas. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Wilmington to go shopping. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for Families?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

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

Wilmington is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment 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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

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

Couples visit Wilmington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach Better for Students?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Myrtle Beach is a great beach city to visit as a student. 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.

Wilmington is a good city to visit for students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.


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

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

Wilmington is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Myrtle Beach is a beach city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Myrtle Beach

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable city. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

Myrtle Beach is generally not a very walkable city. 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 Wilmington Worth Visiting? and Is Myrtle Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Myrtle Beach or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Both Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Wilmington, and 2-7 days is enough time in Myrtle Beach.

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

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

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


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

One day in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming city 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.

With nightlife around the busy beach city of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the 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.


A weekend in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Wilmington is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With nightlife around the destination of Myrtle Beach, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach city.

Five days in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

In Wilmington, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this charming 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. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Myrtle Beach, a popular beach 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 beach city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Wilmington is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Myrtle Beach or Wilmington?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $204, while the average daily cost in Myrtle Beach is $173. 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 Wilmington and Myrtle Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Myrtle Beach $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Myrtle Beach $176
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Myrtle Beach

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington or Myrtle Beach? 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 Wilmington


Hotels in Myrtle Beach


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Myrtle Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wilmington $47
    Myrtle Beach $24

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: $86
  • Private Departure Transfer to Myrtle Beach Airport (MYR): $36
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Myrtle Beach Airport MYR: $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Prices for flights to both Myrtle Beach and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $56
    Myrtle Beach $56

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.
    Wilmington $17
    Myrtle Beach $46

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Wilmington.

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • Wilmington History and Architecture Tour: $25
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Ghosts of the Port City Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Wilmington Running Tour: Highlights of Historic Downtown: $30
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Trolley Pub Public Tour: $49
  • Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach: $50
  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50

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:

  • 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park in Myrtle Beach: $69
  • 60-Minute Escape Game Adventures in Myrtle Beach: $41
  • Day Trip to Charleston Tour #5: Bus Tour, Boone Plantation, Lunch and More: $120
  • Day Trips to Charleston#7 See Ft Sumter,CarriageTour,Lunch & more: $215
  • Early Myrtle Beach History and The WWII Years Trolley Tour: $40
  • Friday Night Flights Local Beer Tour in Myrtle Beach: $90
  • From Charleston Tour with Boone Hall & Cruise: $173
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Myrtle Beach, SC: $15
  • Murrells Inlet: Bird Watching Eco Tour: $32
  • Murrells Inlet: Scenic Sunset Cruise: $29
  • Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates and Historic Families Trolley Tour: $40
  • Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wilmington $39
    Myrtle Beach $16

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • Private and Custom Brewery Tour in a '72 VW Bus : $286


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


Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Myrtle Beach?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Myrtle Beach. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Myrtle Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Wilmington as well as Myrtle Beach. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Myrtle Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wilmington is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 81°F (27°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 Wilmington this time of the year. In the summer, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Myrtle Beach. Wilmington receives a lot of rain in the summer. Wilmington usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Myrtle Beach. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Myrtle Beach in the Autumn?

Both Myrtle Beach and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Myrtle Beach this time of year.

Wilmington is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 65°F (18°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 Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during autumn. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Myrtle Beach in the Winter?

Both Myrtle Beach and Wilmington during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Myrtle Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Wilmington is around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wilmington in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Myrtle Beach averages at about 45°F (7°C).

In the winter, Wilmington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Myrtle Beach receives 180 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Myrtle Beach. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Myrtle Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Myrtle Beach. Many travelers come to Wilmington for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Myrtle Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Wilmington is generally around the same temperature as Myrtle Beach. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 63°F (17°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 Wilmington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Myrtle Beach during spring. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Myrtle Beach receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of rain as Myrtle Beach. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Myrtle Beach receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C) 
    Myrtle Beach 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Myrtle Beach and Wilmington

Wilmington Myrtle Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 80°F (26°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)