A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Cape Canaveral vs. Saint Petersburg for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Food

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg, 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.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a iconic, fascinating, and wonder-filled town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Petersburg than Cape Canaveral, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Petersburg is better known for its food, nightlife, and beaches, while Cape Canaveral is more popular for its museums. Cape Canaveral is well known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is famous for St. Pete Beach.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Petersburg and Cape Canaveral. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Cape Canaveral is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Cape Canaveral from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Saint Petersburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Petersburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Most people don't head to Cape Canaveral specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg.

Cape Canaveral has a few great resort options. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Saint Petersburg has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.


Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

The beaches in Saint Petersburg are among the best in the world. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cape Canaveral. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg both offer plenty of notable spots.

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Saint Petersburg is a great destination for shopping. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Cape Canaveral is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Cape Canaveral is one of the most popular family destinations. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

Saint Petersburg is a very kid-friendly town. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.


Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Is Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Cape Canaveral. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint Petersburg that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Cape Canaveral 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 Saint Petersburg.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Saint Petersburg 2-4

One day in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find museums and food around the wonder-filled destination of Cape Canaveral. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Saint Petersburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating town of Cape Canaveral. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Cape Canaveral is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Cape Canaveral is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the museums. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal city of Saint Petersburg. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Saint Petersburg or Cape Canaveral?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $220, while the average daily cost in Saint Petersburg is $204. 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 Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Saint Petersburg $127
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Saint Petersburg $254
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg? 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 Cape Canaveral


Hotels in Saint Petersburg


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: Saint Petersburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Saint Petersburg $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

Also for Cape Canaveral, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $280
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport: $280
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $238
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to International Drive: $238
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $238
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $215
  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $195
  • Round Trip MCO Orlando Airport/Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $170
  • Orlando Airport to/from Port Canaveral Sedan Transfer up to 3 pax: $145
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $112
  • One Way MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $85
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $84

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Prices for flights to both Saint Petersburg and Cape Canaveral 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
    Cape Canaveral $43
    Saint Petersburg $49

Typical Food Prices in Saint Petersburg

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saint Petersburg:


  • Burger Dinner (for 2)
    $20
  • Indian Food Dinner (for 2)
    $37
  • Gelato (for 2)
    $8.00
  • Breakfast at Piper's Patio (for 2)
    $17

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Saint Petersburg $13

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

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

  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $58
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95
  • Self-Guided Kayaking Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $55
  • Two Hour Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $60
  • Victory Cruises Casino Luxury Transportation: $75
  • Wizard of OZ Museum Ticket with Guided Tour by the Owner: $125
  • Wizard of OZ Museum tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Saint Petersburg $41


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Canaveral Expensive? and Is Saint Petersburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg, 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 Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg in the Summer?

Both Saint Petersburg and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Canaveral in July average around 80°F (27°C), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Petersburg. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg in the Autumn?

Both Saint Petersburg and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year.

In October, Cape Canaveral is generally around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 74°F (24°C), and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Saint Petersburg. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cape Canaveral is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Saint Petersburg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Saint Petersburg fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives around the same amount of rain as Saint Petersburg. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Saint Petersburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Saint Petersburg. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Saint Petersburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Canaveral in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Saint Petersburg averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in April than Saint Petersburg. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Saint Petersburg receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Saint Petersburg 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Saint Petersburg and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Saint Petersburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)