A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Pocono Mountains for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains? 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.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Daytona Beach and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Pocono Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Pocono Mountains are both popular with visitors, Daytona Beach has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Daytona Beach is more popular for its nightlife, music, beaches, and big city activities, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, museums, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also home to The Daytona International Speedway. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Daytona Beach different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Daytona Beach is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Daytona Beach is not a skiing destination.


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

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Pocono Mountains area. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Daytona Beach is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Daytona Beach is a world class party destination. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.


Is Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Daytona Beach is a beach city with good options for its live music scene. However, Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Daytona Beach. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Pocono Mountains is not a live music destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its resorts. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its luxury resorts.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Daytona Beach is a beach city with good options for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Daytona 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Pocono Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

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

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains to go shopping. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

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

Pocono Mountains is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains 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.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Daytona Beach is a must-visit destination for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Daytona Beach is a very popular beach city for students. 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.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.


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

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a moderate region 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 Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

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 Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a moderate region for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

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 Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains.


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

One day in Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find live music and nightlife around the lively destination of Daytona Beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Pocono Mountains?

You'll find nightlife and live music around 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Pocono Mountains?

Daytona Beach is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region 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 Pocono Mountains?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 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, Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains is $174. 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 Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains? 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 Pocono Mountains


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.

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $53

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Pocono Mountains $30

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

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

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

  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $64
  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Pocono Mountains $13

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

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 Pocono Mountains Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Pocono Mountains, 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 Pocono Mountains?

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 Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Daytona Beach is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

Both Pocono Mountains and Daytona Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Daytona Beach is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Pocono Mountains. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Pocono Mountains. The winter months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. In the winter, Daytona Beach is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Daytona Beach in January average around 58°F (14°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In January, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Pocono Mountains. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In April, Daytona Beach is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 69°F (21°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)