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

Should you visit Destin or Naples?

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

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Destin and Naples: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Destin or Naples?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Also, Naples is famous for Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach.

How is Destin different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Destin
Naples

Naples is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Naples is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Destin
Naples

Naples 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, Naples makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Naples

Naples is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Naples. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

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 Naples Better for Resorts?

Destin
Naples

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Destin and Naples.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Destin. 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.

Naples is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.


Is Destin or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Destin
Naples

Naples is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Naples. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Destin or Naples Better for Beaches?

Destin
Naples

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

With world-famous beaches, Naples is a very popular vacation destination. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

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 Destin or Naples Better for Hiking?

Destin
Naples

Naples is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Naples. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Destin is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Naples?

Destin
Naples

Both Destin and Naples are notable shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Naples. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

Is Destin or Naples Better for Families?

Destin
Naples

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Naples.

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, Naples is very family-friendly. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

Is Destin or Naples Better for Couples?

Destin
Naples

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

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

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 Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Naples

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

Naples is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Destin
Naples

Naples is a moderate beach town 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 Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

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 Naples a more walkable city?

Destin
Naples

Naples is very good for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Naples is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own 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 Naples Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Naples or Destin?

How long in Destin or Naples?

In either Destin or Naples, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than Naples because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-5 days is enough time in Naples.

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

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

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


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

One day in Destin or Naples?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Naples. 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 Naples?

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.

Naples is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, 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 Naples?

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 Naples. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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.


A week in Destin or Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful 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 nightlife and food when visiting the peaceful destination of Naples. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


Which place is cheaper, Naples 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 Naples is $226. 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 Naples in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Naples $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Naples $238
Compare Hotels in Destin and Naples

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Naples? 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 Naples


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 Naples Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Naples $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport One Way Transfer: $119
  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

Also for Naples, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Marco Island to Southwest Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94
  • Naples to Southwest Florida Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $103

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Naples?

Prices for flights to both Naples 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
    Naples $70

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: $121
  • 3 Hours Destin Easter Sunset Dinner Cruise at Miramar Beach: $121
  • 3 Hour Sunset and Fireworks Dinner Cruise Solaris Miramar Beach: $121
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $121

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

For Naples, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Naples $26
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:

  • FAMOUS Destin Dolphin Cruise & Crab Island Sandbar: $70
  • 1 Hour and 30 Minutes Harbor Sightseeing Cruise from Destin: $60
  • 3 Hour Crab Island and Dolphin Cruise from Destin : $70
  • 30A Axe Throwing Experience in Santa Rosa Beach: $30
  • 4 Hour Eco Dolphin Tour in Panama: $250
  • 90 Minutes Sunset Cruise in Destin Harbor: $77
  • Clear Kayak Adventure in Fort Walton Beach : $69
  • Clear Kayak Ecotour Destin Ft. Walton Beach: $69
  • Clear Kayak Glow Tour Destin Ft. Walton Beach: $69
  • Clear Kayaking Eco Adventure Tour in Marianna: $75
  • Crab Island Dolphin Jetski Adventure : $227
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $39

Tours and Activities in Naples

For Naples, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Naples Kayak Rentals, Self Guided Eco Experience: $17
  • Self-Guided Island Tour - CLEAR or Standard Kayak or Board - Bonita Springs : $32
  • Guided Tour of Naples on a Vintage Trolley (Hop on - Hop off): $44
  • Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour: $54
  • Guided Dolphin Tour by Kayak & SUP - Big Hickory Island: $55
  • Sunset Cruise 40' Vessel: $57
  • Gulf of Mexico Sunset Cruise from Naples: $58
  • 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour : $59
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59
  • Naples Florida Electric Trike Tour - Fun For The Entire Family!: $60
  • Kayak Tour Adventure Marco Island and Naples Florida: $60
  • Manatee Sightseeing and Wildlife Boat Tour: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Naples $38

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Naples:

  • Epic Naples Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12


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

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


Which is Bigger, Destin or Naples?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 77% larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Naples, 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.