A Travel Price Comparison for North Carolina Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Nags Head for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Nags Head

Other popular activities here include food.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is better known for its museums, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is more popular for its food. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for Lake Lure Beach Park. Nags Head is well known for

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nags Head and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Nags Head is a with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nags Head area. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is adequate for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head are excellent to visit with kids.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Nags Head

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is mediocre for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.


Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

Families should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Nags Head. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Nags Head. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Nags Head 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

You'll find around the recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

You'll find around the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this recreation area has to offer. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this makes for a great vacation. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, while the average daily cost in Nags Head is $149. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Nags Head $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    Nags Head $41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Nags Head $14

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes: Self-Guided Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Nags Head $12


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Nags Head Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Nags Head?

Nags Head has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Nags Head, 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.