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

Should you visit Destin or Vail?

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 Vail 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.

Vail

Vail is a charming, picturesque, and scenic ski town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and live music.

Destin and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Vail?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Vail. Although Destin and Vail are popular destinations, Vail has more sights and attractions for tourists. Vail is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Destin attracts visitors for its beaches. Vail is more touristy than Destin and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. It is also well known for The Vail Ski Resort. 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 Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Destin or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is terrific for snow skiing. However, Destin is not a skiing destination.

Vail is among the world's best ski destinations. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Destin is not a skiing destination.

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

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

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.

Vail has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Destin or Vail Better for Nightlife?

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

Vail has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Vail is very good for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Vail Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Destin and Vail.

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.

Vail is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Is Destin or Vail Better for Beaches?

Destin is a great beach town for the beache. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Vail Better for Hiking?

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

Vail is a popular spot for hiking. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Vail?

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

Vail is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail Better for Christmas?

Vail is terrific for its Christmas activities. However, Destin does not offer Christmas activities.

Vail is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The town is a winter wonderland during the holidays. Check out the iconic Christmas tree lighting and wander through the fairytale streets.

Destin does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Destin or Vail Better for Christmas Markets?

Vail is notable for its Christmas markets. However, Destin does not offer Christmas markets.

Vail has plenty of Christmas markets during the holiday season. The town's Christmas Market is picturesque, and the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts.

Destin does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Destin or Vail Better for Families?

Vail 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.

Vail is one of the most popular family destinations. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail Better for Couples?

Vail 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, Vail has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

Vail has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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 Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is terrific for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Vail on foot. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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 Vail Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vail or Destin?

How long in Destin or Vail?

Both Destin and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Vail has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Vail than Destin. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

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

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

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

One day in Destin or Vail?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Vail?

Destin is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, 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 Vail?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Destin. This beach town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vail. Don't miss the skiing, 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 Vail?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the peaceful beach town of Destin. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Vail is a small town with plenty to do. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Destin and Vail, we can see that Vail 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 Vail would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vail 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 Vail Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Destin or Vail?

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