Myrtle Beach is lively with numerous attractions, while Gulf Shores provides a tranquil and nature-focused getaway with a more relaxed atmosphere. Both share similar climates and accessible airports.
Myrtle Beach has a wider range of dining options and upscale restaurants, while Gulf Shores excels in fresh seafood and laid-back dining.
Myrtle Beach is ideal for families and business travelers, with various activities and conveniences, while Gulf Shores cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
That’s not all. I have some more detailed comparisons of Myrtle Beach and Gulf Shores to make your choice easier.
Myrtle Beach vs. Gulf Shores: Comparison Table
I’m including a quick comparison table of Myrtle Beach and Gulf Shores for you to make an informed decision.
| Aspect | Myrtle Beach | Gulf Shores |
| Location | Horry County, Eastern South Carolina, U.S. | Baldwin County, Alabama, United States |
| Climate Or Weather | Humid subtropical | Humid subtropical |
| Accessibility | Easily accessible by air and car | Accessible by car from nearby airport |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring (March-May) and Fall (September- November) | Spring (March-May) and Fall (September- November) |
| Accommodation |
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| Amenities |
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| Dining and Restaurants | Diverse cuisines, seafood, themed restaurants | Fresh seafood, beachside dining, casual eateries |
| Local Activities & Attractions | Blend of indoor and family-friendly attractions. | Outdoor-focused attractions and activities. |
| Nightlife | Lively with bars, clubs, and casinos | Quieter with beachfront bars and live music |
| Cost Effectiveness (Per day, per person) | $151-$355 per day | $173-$337 |
In-Depth Discussion On The Comparison Between Myrtle Beach And Gulf Shores
Let’s delve into each aspect in detail for both Myrtle Beach and Gulf Shores.
Location
Myrtle Beach is located on the east coast of the United States, in the state of South Carolina. Gulf Shores, however, is situated in the southern part of the state of Alabama, along the Gulf of Mexico.
Myrtle Beach is situated along the Grand Strand, which is a stretch of approximately 60 miles of sandy coastline. On the other hand, Gulf Shores offers pristine white sandy beaches and warm Gulf waters, making it a popular beach destination.
Climate Or Weather
Both Gulf Shores, AL, and Myrtle Beach, SC, share similar humid subtropical climates, characterized by mild winters and warm summers.
Both cities have above-average sunshine days and higher annual rainfall compared to the U.S. average. The best time to enjoy Gulf Shores and Myrtle Beach is in either Spring, from March to May, or Fall, from September to November.
Nonetheless, if you’re budget-conscious, the cheapest time to visit both Gulf Shores and Myrtle Beach is between January to March and August to November. Because during this time the hotel prices are generally the lowest.
Peak hotel prices in both cities typically start between June and August.
Accessibility
Gulf Shores has several airports catering to different traveler preferences, while Myrtle Beach offers options within a 90-minute car ride.
Myrtle Beach Jetport (MYR) is the closest airport to the beach, offering quick access to golf courses and attractions. NC International Airport (ILM), which offers direct flights from major cities is a feasible choice for reaching Myrtle Beach.
Gulf Shores International Airport is only 2.5 miles away from Gulf Shores. Pensacola International Airport (PNS) is an hour’s drive away, offering flights from multiple U.S. cities and convenient ground transportation options.
Accommodation
Myrtle Beach offers budget options like Sheraton Broadway Resort Villas and luxury at Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort. Whereas, Gulf Shores has Comfort Inn and The Lodge at Gulf State Park.
Myrtle Beach also offers luxury seekers with options like the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes. It also offers a wide range of options, including Dunes Village Resort, Homewood Suites by Hilton, and more.
Gulf Shores, on the other hand, has options like the Hilton Hotel. Popular hotels in the area include Best Western On The Beach, Phoenix All Suites Hotel, and Gulf Shores Plantation.
Amenities
Myrtle Beach is a bustling destination with a wide array of activities, from amusement parks and arcades. In contrast, Gulf Shores provides a more nature-centric experience than Myrtle Beach, with hiking trails and adventure parks.
Myrtle Beach is also renowned for its vibrant theater shows and holds the title of the “Golf Capital of the World,” making it a top pick for golf enthusiasts. Myrtle Beach is known for its family-friendly environment, offering a variety of attractions like-
- Broadway at the Beach
- The SkyWheel
- Myrtle Beach State Park, etc.
The city provides numerous kid-oriented activities, including amusement parks, mini-golf courses, and live entertainment shows tailored to children. You can also walk the entertainment areas on Broadway at the beach or Barefoot Landing there as well.
Gulf Shores is well-known for its golf courses, offering a quieter and laid-back atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. It also offers ideal attractions for family visits. Such as-
- The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
- The Big Beach Brewing Company
- The Track, etc.
With amusement parks, a zoo, and beaches, Gulf Shores provides kid-friendly experiences for young visitors.
Dining And Restaurants
Myrtle Beach offers a wider range of cuisines than Gulf Shores.
Myrtle Beach boasts an extensive dining scene, featuring over 2,000 restaurants. There you can relish fresh seafood, American cuisine, and themed dining experiences, including beachfront options. For example-
- The Melting Pot Myrtle Beach
- Big Mike’s Soul Food
- Cafe Old Vienna
- Thoroughbreds Chophouse, etc.
Myrtle Beach has a higher number of upscale and specialty restaurants, making it suitable for those seeking unique and high-quality dining experiences.
Now compared to Myrtle Beach, Gulf Shores is renowned for its fresh seafood, offering beachside dining, casual eateries, etc. It presents more relaxed and budget-friendly dining scenes. Such as
- Gulf Shores Seafood
- Sassy Bass Island Grill
- Hope’s Cheesecake
- Kitty’s Kafe, etc.
Local Activities & Attractions
Myrtle Beach offers a mix of indoor and family-friendly attractions, while Gulf Shores is primarily known for its outdoor activities.
Myrtle Beach offers a variety of activities including amusement parks, arcades, shopping, interactive museums, theater shows, and golf including-
- Ripley’s Aquarium
- Broadway at the Beach
- SkyWheel
- Duplin Winery, etc.
Gulf Shores offers a more nature-oriented experience, such as
- Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
- The Track
- Pottery Central World Headquarters
- Fort Morgan, etc.
You can enjoy activities like ziplining, hiking trails, and adventure parks, in Gulf Shores, so it is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nightlife
Myrtle Beach boasts diverse entertainment and family-friendly activities, while Gulf Shores is renowned for its live music and laid-back beachfront scene.
Myrtle Beach provides a lively nightlife scene with theaters, beachfront bars, nightclubs, and casino cruises. With entertainment options such as game nights at the Myrtle Beach Pelicans Ballpark, these events feature fireworks, playgrounds, and special activities, perfect for families.
Contrarily, Gulf Shores also offers a nightlife scene with a focus on live music, particularly in bars, nightclubs, and beachfront settings. Some well-liked venues in Gulf Shores include the Pink Pony Pub and Live Bait, known for their live music and beachfront settings.
Cost
Myrtle Beach is more cost-effective at $151-$355 per day per person, while, Gulf Shores costs $173-$337.
Gulf Shores, while slightly more expensive offers affordability during peak times, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Final Verdict: Which Beach Should You Go For?
- Families: Myrtle Beach offers more family-friendly options.
- Couples: Both destinations can be enjoyable for couples; it depends on your preferences.
- Budget Travelers: Myrtle Beach may be more cost-effective.
Since Myrtle Beach is best for various reasons, you can compare it with other beaches. For example, compare Myrtle Beach with Miami Beach to decide even better.
Conclusion Lines
I hope, now your choice between Myrtle Beach and Gulf Shores has become much more easier. Both destinations share similarities in terms of climate and accessibility, with each having its unique charm and appeal.
Whether you prioritize family-friendly activities, nature-oriented adventures, live entertainment, or relaxation, both Myrtle Beach and Gulf Shores have something to offer.
