A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Redwood National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and food.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Cape Cod and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Cod. Although Cape Cod and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Cape Cod has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Cod is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. It is also well known for The Cape Cod National Seashore. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Cape Cod different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Cape Cod is an experience not to be missed. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Neither Cape Cod or Redwood National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cape Cod This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

People don't go to Redwood National Park for the nightlife. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod is a good destination for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Cape Cod for it's beautiful beaches. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod is well known for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Both Cape Cod and Redwood National Park are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod and Redwood National Park both excellent destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Redwood National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod is a beach destination with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Cape Cod or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Redwood National Park

Cape Cod is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable beach destination. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

In either Cape Cod or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than Redwood National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cape Cod than Redwood National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cape Cod that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Cape Cod 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 Redwood National Park.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful park of Redwood National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Redwood National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Redwood National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Cape Cod?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Cod and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Redwood National Park? 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 Cod


Hotels in Redwood National Park


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Redwood National Park $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Cape Cod 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 Cod $60
    Redwood National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Yoga and National Seashore with guided Hike Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Redwood National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Cod and Redwood National Park, we can see that Cape Cod is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood National Park 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 Cape Cod would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Cod than you might in Redwood National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Cod Expensive? and Is Redwood National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Redwood National Park?

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 Cape Cod or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Redwood National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Cape Cod is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 68°F (20°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In the summer, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Cod in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

Cape Cod usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. In October, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

Both Redwood National Park and Cape Cod during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cape Cod. In January, Cape Cod is generally much colder than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 31°F (-0°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Cape Cod often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Redwood National Park. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Cape Cod is cooler than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 45°F (7°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park this time of the year. In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Cod usually receives less sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)


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