--- title: "Myrtle Beach vs Virginia Beach: Which East Coast Beach is Better? (2026)" slug: myrtle-beach-vs-virginia-beach description: "Comparing Myrtle Beach and Virginia Beach: beaches, weather, crowds, family activities, costs, and which is right for your vacation." date: 2026-01-05 author: Beaches Close-To-Me featured_image: /images/blog/myrtle-beach-vs-virginia-beach.jpg keywords: myrtle beach vs virginia beach, virginia beach or myrtle beach, east coast beach comparison, best east coast beaches --- # Myrtle Beach vs Virginia Beach: Which Should You Choose? Two of the East Coast's most popular beach destinations, both drawing millions of visitors each year. But they offer very different experiences. --- ## Quick Comparison | Factor | Myrtle Beach | Virginia Beach | Winner | |--------|--------------|----------------|--------| | Beach Length | 60 miles | 35 miles | Myrtle | | Water Temperature | Warmer (avg 78°F summer) | Cooler (avg 74°F summer) | Myrtle | | Crowds | Very crowded | Moderate | Virginia Beach | | Nightlife | Extensive | Moderate | Myrtle | | Family-Friendly | Yes, but rowdier | Very family-oriented | Virginia Beach | | Golf Courses | 80+ courses | 15+ courses | Myrtle | | Military Presence | Minimal | Strong (Naval base) | Tie | | Avg Hotel Cost | $120-180/night | $150-220/night | Myrtle | | Driving from DC | ~6 hours | ~3.5 hours | Virginia Beach | --- ## Beach Quality ### Myrtle Beach: The Grand Strand Myrtle Beach is part of the 60-mile "Grand Strand" - one of the longest beach stretches on the East Coast. The sand is tan and compact, great for walking. The water is warm and generally calm. Highlights: - Warm Gulf Stream influence - Wide, walkable beaches - Excellent shelling at low tide - Beach accessible nearly everywhere Drawbacks: - Very crowded in summer - Commercial development right up to the sand - Some areas can feel cluttered --- ### Virginia Beach: The Boardwalk Experience Virginia Beach offers 35 miles of coastline with a famous 3-mile boardwalk. The beach is well-maintained with a more polished, resort-town feel. Slightly cooler waters from the Chesapeake Bay influence. Highlights: - Iconic 3-mile boardwalk - Less commercial feel - Cleaner, more regulated beaches - Strong surfing culture Drawbacks: - Cooler water temperatures - More crowded boardwalk area - Parking can be challenging --- ## Family Activities ### Myrtle Beach - Ripley's Aquarium - World-class marine exhibits - Broadway at the Beach - Entertainment complex - WonderWorks - Interactive science museum - Mini golf everywhere - 50+ courses - Alligator Adventure - Wildlife park ### Virginia Beach - Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center - Educational focus - First Landing State Park - Nature trails and history - Cape Henry Lighthouse - Historic landmark - Dolphin watching tours - Wild dolphin encounters - Military Aviation Museum - Aircraft history Winner: Myrtle Beach has more volume of attractions; Virginia Beach offers more educational and nature-focused experiences. --- ## Nightlife & Entertainment Myrtle Beach is the clear winner for nightlife: - Broadway at the Beach entertainment district - Numerous beach bars and clubs - Live music venues - Celebrity Theatre concerts Virginia Beach offers a more relaxed scene: - Oceanfront bars and restaurants - Local craft brewery scene - Live music at The Shack - Annual festivals and events --- ## Cost Comparison | Expense | Myrtle Beach | Virginia Beach | |---------|--------------|----------------| | Hotel (mid-range) | $120-180/night | $150-220/night | | Beach chair rental | $25-35/day | $30-40/day | | Dinner for two | $50-80 | $60-90 | | Attraction admission | $20-40 | $15-35 | | Weekly vacation cost | $1,800-2,500 | $2,200-3,000 | Winner: Myrtle Beach offers better value across the board. --- ## Who Should Choose Myrtle Beach? - Golfers (80+ courses within 20 minutes) - Groups looking for nightlife - Budget-conscious families - Visitors wanting warm water - Those who love tourist attractions Explore Myrtle Beach → --- ## Who Should Choose Virginia Beach? - Families with young children - Nature and wildlife enthusiasts - Visitors from DC/Virginia (shorter drive) - Surfers and water sports fans - Those seeking a less crowded experience Explore Virginia Beach → --- ## Final Verdict For Pure Beach Vacation: Myrtle Beach wins with warmer water, more attractions, and better value. For Family Quality Time: Virginia Beach offers a cleaner, calmer, more family-focused experience. Can't Decide? They're about 5 hours apart - visit both on a longer East Coast road trip! --- Explore Myrtle Beach → | Explore Virginia Beach →