A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Yosemite National Park for Hiking, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Cape Cod or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and popular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Yosemite National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yosemite National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Cape Cod and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also well known for El Capitan. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cape Cod different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.


Is Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Cape Cod is not a good place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Yosemite National Park to choose from. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Cape Cod is a well-known place for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake 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 Yosemite National Park?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Cape Cod is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Both Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park are superb 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.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.


Is Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park both superb 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.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Yosemite National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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.


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

Cape Cod
Yosemite National Park

Cape Cod is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park 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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable beach destination. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park?

Both Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cape Cod has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cape Cod than Yosemite National Park. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cape Cod than Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park.


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

One day in Cape Cod or Yosemite National Park?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful national park of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This beach destination offers something for everyone. It's also a great beach destination, too. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Yosemite National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yosemite National Park has to offer. This national 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, Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Yosemite National Park $41

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

Prices for flights to both Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Yosemite National Park $19

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

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Waterfalls of Yosemite: Customizable Private Tour: $495
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Cod and Yosemite National Park, we can see that Cape Cod is more expensive. And not only is Yosemite National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yosemite National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.