A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Destin or San Diego?

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 San Diego can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a relaxing, peaceful, and family-friendly beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

San Diego

San Diego is a dynamic, energetic, and relaxed coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Destin and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego. Although Destin and San Diego are popular destinations, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Destin attracts visitors for its resorts. San Diego is more touristy than Destin and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Destin different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Many visitors head to San Diego specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and San Diego.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is notable for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Destin is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Destin to choose from. 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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego 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 San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego 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, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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 San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or San Diego?

Both Destin and San Diego are nice 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 San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. 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

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego 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, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

San Diego is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is terrific for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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 San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Diego is a moderate coastal 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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 San Diego a more walkable city?

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

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Destin?

How long in Destin or San Diego?

In either Destin or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Destin or San Diego?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach town of Destin. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

You'll find shopping and food around the peaceful destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 San Diego?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing beach town of Destin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 San Diego?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxed destination of San Diego. This coastal 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Destin or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Destin as well as San Diego. Many visitors come to Destin in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Destin is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the summer. Destin usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Destin is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than San Diego. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Destin or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Destin during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Destin is cooler than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and San Diego. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Destin is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Destin usually receives more rain than San Diego. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Destin