Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and Virginia Beach, Virginia, are two of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast — and well worth visiting. Each offers excellent sand and surf, a range of family-friendly attractions, and welcoming weather year-round. In a match between Myrtle Beach versus Virginia Beach, the South Carolina coast wins for its beaches, attractions, weather, family appeal, and overall value.
Myrtle or Virginia: Which Beach Is Best?
Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach both offer great beaches, but with different vibes. Here’s how they compare.
Myrtle Beach’s Waterfront
Many visitors feel that the beaches in Myrtle Beach are nicer than those in Virginia Beach because they’re more spacious. The 60-mile stretch of shoreline along the Grand Strand offers wide, gently sloping beaches with soft, white sands. Another benefit of these larger oceanfront expanses? Some of the East Coast’s best beach resorts are just steps away.
Virginia Beach’s Coastline
The famed Virginia Beach Boardwalk anchors a lively, well-maintained white-sand beach that hums during the summertime. For vacationers seeking quieter beach days, nearby Cape Henry and First Landing State Park provide natural, less crowded stretches framed by dunes and maritime forest.
Myrtle Beach vs. Virginia Beach: Things To Do
Both Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach feature can’t-miss stops for visitors. Which is better depends on what you prefer to do on vacation.
Myrtle Beach Attractions
People like Myrtle Beach so much because it offers great beaches and rounds out the vacation experience with easy-to-reach attractions, golfing, amusement parks, and year-round outdoor activities. Stroll the 1.2-mile oceanfront Boardwalk, or explore shopping, entertainment, and live shows at Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach. Prefer to escape the crowds? Myrtle Beach offers that, too. Sneak away and enjoy nature at Myrtle Beach State Park or Huntington Beach State Park.
Things To Do in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach pairs its iconic 3-mile Boardwalk with parks, wildlife refuges, and quieter escapes — ideal for travelers in search of a more serene vacation. Families visiting Virginia Beach should visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, which offers educational experiences and up-close looks at sea creatures. From the Cape Henry Lighthouse to the ViBe Creative District, there’s something for everyone at Virginia Beach.
The Weather in Myrtle Beach vs. Virginia Beach
Located nearly six hours apart on the Atlantic coastline, Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach have similar but distinct climates. Myrtle Beach is usually a bit warmer than Virginia Beach, especially during the spring and fall. Summers in Myrtle Beach are hot and humid with classic afternoon pop-up showers, but Virginia Beach’s ocean breezes make even the hottest days feel a touch milder.
Visitors to Myrtle Beach can expect longer swim windows than those found in Virginia Beach. Spring warms up early on the Grand Strand, and ocean temperatures stay comfortable later into October. Virginia Beach’s waters warm in late spring and cool off earlier in fall.
Myrtle Beach vs. Virginia Beach for Families
Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach are both winners for families with kids, but each offers a different flavor of fun. Think of Myrtle Beach as an all-in-one family-friendly playground, while Virginia Beach pairs its great shoreline with opportunities to get outdoors.
Visiting Myrtle Beach With Kids
Many visitors consider Myrtle Beach more family-friendly than Virginia Beach because the Grand Strand’s main resort district and popular attractions are so closely grouped. The area’s best oceanfront resorts are conveniently located near Boardwalk amusements, mini-golf courses, the SkyWheel, and shows, so planning family activities is a breeze. Many Myrtle Beach resorts also offer condo-style rooms, kitchens, and pools with lazy rivers or hot tubs, making it easy to accommodate nap schedules or multigenerational preferences.
Family Vacations in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach’s Boardwalk with dedicated bike paths sets the tone for active family days. Local attractions, including the Military Aviation Museum and the new Owl Creek Landing, add opportunities for hands-on learning and outdoor adventure. When the ocean’s choppy, families can take the kids to Chesapeake Bay beaches to play in the calmer waters there.
Vacation Costs in Myrtle Beach vs. Virginia Beach
Both Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach are doable on a budget, with higher-value vacations found when visiting at the right times. Plan your trip for shoulder seasons and midweek stays to find the best value in either spot.
Myrtle Beach Vacation Costs
Myrtle Beach is among the cheapest beach destinations on the East Coast. Thanks to its large inventory of oceanfront resorts, Myrtle Beach offers competitive lodging rates. Kitchen-equipped units, deals and discounts, and walkable entertainment hubs help cut dining, parking, and driving costs.
Pro Tip: For the lowest Myrtle Beach resort rates, visit in the spring, fall, or winter. Or, book your trip for Sunday through Thursday night.
Virginia Beach Vacation Costs
Peak-summer oceanfront rates run higher along Virginia Beach’s main strip. Prices ease a few blocks inland or in quieter areas, such as the North End and Sandbridge. Free Boardwalk entertainment helps the budget, but factor in bike rentals and parking fees. Spring and fall weekends provide a sweet spot for value when visiting Virginia Beach.
Make the Most of Your Myrtle Beach Vacation with Myrtle Beach Resorts
Ready to plan the perfect escape to the Carolina coast? Myrtle Beach Resorts’ Coral Beach Resort & Suites, Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort, and Holiday Pavilion Resort on the Boardwalk are ready to deliver. Each welcoming property offers a prime oceanfront location, comfortable accommodations, and appealing amenities that make every visit to the Grand Strand unforgettable. Book your next Myrtle Beach vacation today!