A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Daytona Beach vs. Pensacola for Nightlife, Beaches, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pensacola? 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 fun, party-hard, and energetic beach city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, beaches, and nightlife.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a entertaining, fun-filled, and active beach town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Daytona Beach and Pensacola: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 Pensacola?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Pensacola are about the same size, Daytona Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Daytona Beach is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Pensacola is known for its museums, food, resorts, beaches, hiking, and shopping. Daytona Beach is popular for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also home to The Daytona International Speedway. Pensacola is popular for its white sand beaches and long running naval history.

How is Daytona Beach different from Pensacola?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pensacola 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 Pensacola?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Pensacola 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 Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Pensacola is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

Dining out in Pensacola is an experience not to be missed. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

Daytona Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Is Daytona Beach or Pensacola Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Daytona Beach is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Daytona Beach just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Is Daytona Beach or Pensacola Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Daytona Beach is very good for its live music scene. However, Pensacola is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Daytona Beach. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Pensacola is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Pensacola Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

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

Pensacola is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

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 Pensacola Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Pensacola is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Pensacola. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Many people head to Daytona Beach to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is Daytona Beach or Pensacola Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Pensacola is a moderate beach town for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

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

Many visitors go to Pensacola to go shopping. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

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 Pensacola Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Pensacola is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

Pensacola is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

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 Pensacola Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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 Pensacola Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Daytona Beach is a world-class destination for students. However, Pensacola is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Pensacola is not popular with students.

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

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

Neither Daytona Beach or Pensacola offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Daytona Beach or Pensacola a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Pensacola

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

Pensacola is generally not very walkable. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

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 Pensacola Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pensacola or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

Both Daytona Beach and Pensacola have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pensacola than in Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pensacola.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pensacola 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 Pensacola.


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

One day in Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the beach city of Daytona Beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the active destination of Pensacola. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Pensacola?

You'll find live music and nightlife around the energetic destination of Daytona Beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pensacola. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the lively beach city of Daytona Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the entertaining destination of Pensacola. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

Daytona Beach is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beach town of Pensacola. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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


Which place is cheaper, Pensacola 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 Pensacola is $198. 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 Pensacola in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Pensacola $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Pensacola $230
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Pensacola

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Pensacola? 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 Pensacola


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 Pensacola Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Pensacola $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $186
  • Private Transfer from Daytona to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $202
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Port Canaveral: $241

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pensacola

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Pensacola:

  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Arrival Private Transfer: $72
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Pensacola - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $110
  • Pensacola International Airport (PNS) to Destin, FL - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $143

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

Prices for flights to both Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $48

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 Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

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

  • Seville Stroll Food Tour: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Pensacola $13

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 : $23
  • 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
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • New Smyrna Dolphin and Manatee Adventure Tour: $65
  • Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Sailing Tour in Daytona Beach: $79
  • 2-Hour Glass Bottom Guided Eco Tour in Flagler County-Small-group: $85

Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Public Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Cruise, Pensacola FL: $30
  • Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola: $34
  • Hop-on Hop-off Tour in Pensacola : $35
  • Frisky Mermaid Public Dolphin + Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $37
  • Pensacola Beach Jolly Dolphin Cruise and Scenic Bay Tour: $39
  • Pensacola Shared Trolley Ghost and Mystery Tour: $45
  • Land Paddle Tour in Pensacola: $50
  • Seville Quarter Haunted Ghost Tour, Investigation, and Luncheon: $50
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon and Ghost Tour: $50
  • 1hr Segway Tour Downtown : $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Pensacola $44

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 from Daytona Beach: $40

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

Also in Pensacola, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Walking Pub Tour : $21


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


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Pensacola?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Pensacola. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Pensacola, 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 Pensacola?

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 Pensacola in the Summer?

Both Pensacola and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Daytona Beach is generally around the same temperature as Pensacola. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Pensacola fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Pensacola. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Pensacola receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Pensacola 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pensacola in the Autumn?

Both Pensacola and Daytona Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pensacola in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Pensacola in the autumn. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in October, and Pensacola fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pensacola. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Pensacola receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Pensacola 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pensacola in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Pensacola. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pensacola for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Pensacola. Typically, the winter temperatures in Daytona Beach in January average around 58°F (14°C), and Pensacola averages at about 51°F (10°C).

Pensacola receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Pensacola. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Pensacola receives 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pensacola in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Pensacola. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the beaches.

In April, Daytona Beach is generally around the same temperature as Pensacola. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 69°F (21°C), and Pensacola fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in April than Pensacola. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Pensacola receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Pensacola and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Pensacola
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 51°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)