A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is better known for its museums, nightlife, and hiking, while Destin is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for Lake Lure Beach Park.

How is Destin different from Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Destin area. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

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

Is Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Resorts?

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Destin is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

In Destin, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Beaches?

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Destin is a great destination for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Destin attract visitors from all over. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Hiking?

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

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

Destin is not a hiking destination.

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

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Destin is a beach town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Destin to go shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

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


Is Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Families?

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

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

Is Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Better for Couples?

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Neither Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

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

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

Destin
Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Neither Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are walkable places.

Destin is not a walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Destin if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.


  • How many days in Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3

One day in Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Destin, many people enjoy the food and shopping 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful 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 beach town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

In Destin, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beach town offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $192, while the average daily cost in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196. 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 Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
Compare Hotels in Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

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


Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


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: Destin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $71

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

Prices for flights to both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Destin 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
    Destin $51
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

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

  • 3 Hour Destin Dinner Cruise: Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Mother's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise: SOLARIS Yacht Miramar Beach FL: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

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


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • Flippers Adventures Dolphin Cruise: $25
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises: $32
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Guided Sunset Cruise Up to 22 Passengers in Florida: $35
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $35
  • Chakras Sound Bath Meditation Experience in Destin: $35
  • Family Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour: $40
  • Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $40
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $40
  • Fort Walton Beach: Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40
  • Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21


When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Destin Expensive? and Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Destin or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

Destin has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 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.