A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Hershey for Nightlife, Families, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Hershey?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Hershey? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a energetic, lively, and fun beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and beaches.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums.

Daytona Beach and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Daytona Beach is better known for its nightlife, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Hershey is more popular for its museums, resorts, and shopping. Daytona Beach is well known for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Also, Daytona Beach is famous for The Daytona International Speedway. Hershey is well known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar.

How is Daytona Beach different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hershey and Daytona Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hershey. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Daytona Beach or Hershey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Both Daytona Beach and Hershey offer a number of respectable restaurants to choose from.

Daytona Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Hershey offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Daytona Beach is very popular for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Daytona Beach is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Daytona Beach is a popular place for live music. However, Hershey is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Daytona Beach is active and vibrant. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Hershey is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its luxury resorts.

Hershey is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

Daytona Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Daytona Beach is a popular place for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Daytona Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Hershey to go shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.


Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Hershey is a very family-friendly destination. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

Hershey is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Daytona Beach is very popular for students. However, Hershey is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Daytona Beach. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Hershey is not popular with students.


Is Daytona Beach or Hershey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

Public transit is quite limited in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

Is Daytona Beach or Hershey a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Hershey

Hershey is a moderate town for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

Hershey is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

For even more information, also check out Is Daytona Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Daytona Beach and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hershey than in Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hershey than Daytona Beach 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 Hershey.


  • How many days in Daytona Beach or Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

In Daytona Beach, you'll find nightlife and live music. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This beach city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lighthearted destination of Hershey. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

In Daytona Beach, you'll find live music and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hershey. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Hershey. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Daytona Beach or Hershey?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Daytona Beach. Many people enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting Daytona Beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and shopping around the town of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Hershey or Daytona Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $211, while the average daily cost in Hershey is $212. 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 Daytona Beach and Hershey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Hershey $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Hershey $228
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Hershey

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Hershey? 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 Daytona Beach


Hotels in Hershey


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: Daytona Beach Hotel Prices and Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

  • Private Transfer from Daytona to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $200
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $185
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Port Canaveral: $239

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey and Daytona Beach 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
    Daytona Beach $80
    Hershey $61

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Daytona Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Daytona Beach.

  • Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show Ticket in Daytona Beach: $53

Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Hershey $53

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

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

  • St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park : $28
  • Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon with Experienced Captain: $32
  • The Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour: $40
  • Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour in New Smyrna Beach: $45
  • Zipline Adventure through Tuscawilla Park: $59
  • New Smyrna Dolphin and Manatee Kayak and SUP Adventure Tour: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65
  • Ormond Beach Manatee and Nature Tour Kayaking or Paddle Boarding: $65
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Coastal Discovery Cruise: $75

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Hershey $27

Sample the Local Flavors in Daytona Beach

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Daytona Beach:

  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $38
  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl from Daytona Beach: $40


When comparing the travel costs between Daytona Beach and Hershey, we can see that Hershey 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 Daytona Beach Expensive? and Is Hershey Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Hershey?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hershey. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Hershey, 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 Daytona Beach or Hershey?

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 Daytona Beach or Hershey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Hershey. The summer months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

In the summer, Daytona Beach is around the same temperature as Hershey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Daytona Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Hershey averages at about 77°F (25°C).

Daytona Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Hershey. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Hershey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Hershey. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hershey for the shopping scene.

In October, Daytona Beach is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Daytona Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Hershey. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hershey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hershey can get quite cold in the winter. Daytona Beach is much warmer than Hershey in the winter. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 58°F (14°C) in January, and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

In January, Daytona Beach usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hershey. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Hershey in the Spring?

Both Hershey and Daytona Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Daytona Beach is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Daytona Beach in April average around 69°F (21°C), and Hershey averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in April than Hershey. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)