A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Destin vs. Tallahassee for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Tallahassee?

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

Destin

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

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Destin and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Destin or Tallahassee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Destin than Tallahassee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Destin is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Destin is more touristy than Tallahassee and is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Also, Destin is famous for Baytowne Wharf. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Destin different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Destin
Tallahassee

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

Many visitors head to Tallahassee specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Destin
Tallahassee

Destin is a beach town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Destin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Destin or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Tallahassee

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

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 Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Destin
Tallahassee

Destin is great for its luxury resorts. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Destin
Tallahassee

Destin is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Tallahassee?

Destin
Tallahassee

Both Destin and Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.

Is Destin or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Destin
Tallahassee

Destin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tallahassee is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Destin. 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

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.


Is Destin or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Destin
Tallahassee

Destin is a beach town with good options for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Destin is a good beach town for couples to visit. 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Destin or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Tallahassee Better for Students?

Destin
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is notable for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Tallahassee is very popular with students. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

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

Destin
Tallahassee

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Destin
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Tallahassee is generally not very walkable. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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 Tallahassee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Destin?

How long in Destin or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Destin or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Destin than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

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

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


  • How many days in Destin or Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Destin or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful beach town of Destin. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Tallahassee. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Destin or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the family-friendly destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the family-friendly beach town of Destin. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Tallahassee. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


Which place is cheaper, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Destin and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Tallahassee $33

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Tallahassee $12
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 Tallahassee

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tallahassee.

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $383
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $492

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Tallahassee $53


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Destin and Tallahassee, we can see that Destin is more expensive. And not only is Tallahassee much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tallahassee would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.

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


Which is Bigger, Destin or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Destin as well as Tallahassee. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Tallahassee in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Destin is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Destin receives a lot of rain in the summer. Destin usually gets less rain in July than Tallahassee. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Destin or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Destin in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Tallahassee for the shopping scene during these months.

Destin is around the same temperature as Tallahassee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Tallahassee. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Tallahassee is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Destin or Tallahassee in the Winter?

Both Tallahassee and Destin during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Tallahassee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Destin is around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in January than Tallahassee. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Destin or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Tallahassee. The spring months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Destin is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

Tallahassee receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Destin usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Destin

Destin Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)