A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Juneau for Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Destin or Juneau?

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 Juneau can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Destin and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Destin or Juneau?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Juneau. Although Destin and Juneau are popular destinations, Juneau has more sights and attractions for tourists. Juneau is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Destin attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also well known for the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Destin different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Juneau specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Destin or Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Juneau makes for a great culinary experience. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Destin or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is a moderate city for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Juneau specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

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 Juneau Better for Resorts?

Destin
Juneau

Destin is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

Destin is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Juneau is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Destin
Juneau

Destin is a well-known place for the beache. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Juneau specifically for its hiking. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Juneau?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Juneau is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. 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.


Is Destin or Juneau Better for Families?

Destin
Juneau

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Juneau.

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, Juneau is very family-friendly. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Destin or Juneau Better for Couples?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is terrific for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Juneau has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Destin or Juneau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Public transit is quite limited 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.

Is Destin or Juneau a more walkable city?

Destin
Juneau

Juneau is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

Destin is not a very 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Destin?

How long in Destin or Juneau?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Juneau. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Juneau. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in Juneau.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Destin or Juneau? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Juneau 2-3

One day in Destin or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Destin or Juneau?

Destin is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Juneau. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Destin. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Juneau. This city 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, Juneau 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 Juneau is $160. 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 Juneau in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Juneau $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Juneau $176
Compare Hotels in Destin and Juneau

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Juneau? 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 Juneau


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 and Juneau Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Juneau $38

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Juneau

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Juneau:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Juneau Airport (JNU): $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Juneau Airport (JNU): $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Juneau?

Prices for flights to both Juneau 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
    Juneau $49

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
    Juneau $17
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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Juneau

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


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $25
  • Admission to Alaska State Museum
    $5.00
  • Glacier Gardens
    $22

Tours and Activities in Juneau

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

  • Juneau, The Last Frontier Self Guided (Smart Phone App/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Juneau City Tour: $52
  • Juneau Underground Gold Mine and Panning Experience: $79
  • Historic Gold Mining and Panning Adventure: $99
  • Whale Watching Adventure in Juneau: $123
  • From Whale Watching Cruise with Snacks: $132
  • Historic Gold Panning Adventure & Salmon Bake: $139
  • eBikes Alaska - Rainforest Adventure: $160
  • Whale Watching and Wildlife Cruise with Local Guide: $177
  • 3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau Alaska: $189
  • Juneau Whale Watching Adventure: $189

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Juneau $16


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Destin Expensive? and Is Juneau Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Destin or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Juneau, 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 Destin or Juneau?

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 Destin or Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Juneau because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Destin is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Juneau. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Juneau 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Destin or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

In October, Destin is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Juneau 42°F (6°C)

Should I visit Destin or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Juneau. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. Destin is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Juneau. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Juneau 24°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Destin or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Juneau. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Juneau in the spring for the natural beauty.

Juneau can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Destin is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Juneau. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Juneau 40°F (4°C)

Typical Weather for Juneau and Destin

Destin Juneau
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 24°F (-4°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 33°F (0°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 40°F (4°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 56°F (13°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 55°F (13°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 49°F (10°C) 7 inches (179 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 42°F (6°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.9 inches (123 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)