A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Destin vs. Miami for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Destin or Miami?

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

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Miami

Miami is a exciting, diverse, and bustling beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Miami travel costs.

Destin and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Miami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Destin and Miami are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Destin is known for its impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Destin and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Destin different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Miami has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is terrific for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a must-see party destination. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami Better for Music?

Miami is terrific for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is terrific for its resorts. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Miami is a perfect choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Is Destin or Miami Better for Beaches?

Miami is terrific for its beaches. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Miami?

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

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami More Beautiful?

Destin is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or Miami Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Miami.

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, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Destin or Miami Better for Couples?

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

Miami is a very popular place to visit for couples. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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 Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Miami is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Miami Better for Students?

Miami is very good for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Miami is a good beach city to visit for students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

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

Miami is very good for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Miami has a few public transit options. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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 Miami a more walkable city?

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

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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 Miami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Miami or Destin?

How long in Destin or Miami?

Both Destin and Miami have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Miami has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Miami than Destin. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 7 days is enough time in Miami.

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

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

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

One day in Destin or Miami?

In Destin, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this family-friendly destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

A weekend in Destin or Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami 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.

Five days in Destin or Miami?

Destin is a fun place to experience. In Destin, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, five days is probably not enough time to see everything. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Miami?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this family-friendly destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This beach city 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.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Miami, we can see that Miami 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 Miami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Destin or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

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

Destin is around the same temperature as Miami in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

Miami receives a lot of rain in the summer. Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Miami. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Miami in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Destin as well as Miami. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Destin is cooler than Miami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Miami averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite rainy in Miami. Destin receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Destin usually gets less rain in October than Miami. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Miami in the Winter?

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

In January, Destin is generally much colder than Miami. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Miami fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Miami. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Miami in the Spring?

Both Miami and Destin during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Destin in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

Destin is cooler than Miami in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Miami. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Miami and Destin