A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Death Valley National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Clearwater or Death Valley 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 Clearwater and Death Valley 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a vast, dramatic, and striking national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Clearwater and Death Valley National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Clearwater than Death Valley National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Clearwater is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Death Valley National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Death Valley National Park is well known for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

How is Clearwater different from Death Valley National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

While most people don't head to Death Valley National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in Clearwater is an experience not to be missed. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Death Valley National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is very good for its evening party scene. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Death Valley National Park doesn't offer many options. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.


Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Death Valley National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Death Valley National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is renowned for the beach. However, Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Death Valley National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Death Valley National Park is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is very good for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Many visitors go to Clearwater to go shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Families?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Both Clearwater and Death Valley National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Death Valley National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater and Death Valley National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Death Valley National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.


Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Death Valley National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is a moderate coastal city for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Is Clearwater or Death Valley National Park a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Death Valley National Park

Clearwater is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable coastal city. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Death Valley National Park or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Clearwater or Death Valley National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Clearwater due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-4 days is enough time in Death Valley National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Death Valley National Park 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 Clearwater.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Death Valley National Park 2-4

One day in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this adventure-filled destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With around the dramatic national park of Death Valley National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

With around the destination of Death Valley National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Five days in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

In Clearwater, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventure-filled destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Death Valley National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Death Valley National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Death Valley National Park or Clearwater?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Death Valley National Park is $87. 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 Clearwater and Death Valley National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Death Valley National Park $37
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Death Valley National Park $74
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Death Valley National Park

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Death Valley 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 Clearwater


Hotels in Death Valley 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: Clearwater Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Death Valley National Park $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $63
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • Clearwater Beach to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $102
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $104
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $127

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Death Valley National Park?

Prices for flights to both Death Valley National Park and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $46
    Death Valley National Park $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Death Valley National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Clearwater by Operation City Quest: $10
  • St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour: $14
  • Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience: $21
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphins and Donuts Morning Cruise: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Shark Teeth and Shells, Dolphin and Shelling Tour Boat Clearwater Beach : $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin and Sandbar Boat Cruise: $28
  • Sunset and Harbor Lights Cruise: $28
  • Tour with Dolphins and Sight Seeing: $29

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

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

  • Death Valley Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Death Valley on Mojave Desert VIP Small Group Tour from Las Vegas: $219

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Death Valley National Park $8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20


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

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