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

Should you visit Destin or Williamsburg?

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

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a historic, charming, and quaint town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Destin and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Destin or Williamsburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Williamsburg than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Williamsburg is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Destin is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments. Also, Williamsburg is famous for Colonial Williamsburg.

How is Destin different from Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Destin
Williamsburg

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

Many visitors head to Williamsburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Destin
Williamsburg

Williamsburg 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, Williamsburg makes for a great culinary experience. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

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 Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Williamsburg specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

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 Williamsburg Better for Resorts?

Destin
Williamsburg

Destin is a great destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Williamsburg Better for Beaches?

Destin
Williamsburg

Destin is a great destination for the beach. However, Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Destin for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Williamsburg Better for its Old Town?

Destin
Williamsburg

Williamsburg is terrific for its historic old town. However, Destin does not have a historic old town.

Williamsburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

Destin does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Williamsburg?

Destin
Williamsburg

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

Williamsburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

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 Williamsburg Better for Families?

Destin
Williamsburg

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is one of the most popular family destinations. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Destin
Williamsburg

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

Williamsburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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 Williamsburg Better for Students?

Destin
Williamsburg

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

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

Destin
Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a moderate 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 Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

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 Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Destin
Williamsburg

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

Williamsburg is generally not very walkable. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need 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 Williamsburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Williamsburg or Destin?

How long in Destin or Williamsburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Destin or Williamsburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Destin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Williamsburg.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Destin or Williamsburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Williamsburg 2-4

One day in Destin or Williamsburg?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Williamsburg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Destin or Williamsburg?

Destin is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Williamsburg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Williamsburg?

Destin is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the well-preserved destination of Williamsburg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.


Which place is cheaper, Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg is $112. 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 Williamsburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Williamsburg $66
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Williamsburg $132
Compare Hotels in Destin and Williamsburg

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Williamsburg? 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 Williamsburg


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 Williamsburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Williamsburg $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Destin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Destin:

  • Destin, FL to Pensacola International Airport (PNS) - Departure Private Transfer: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Williamsburg?

Prices for flights to both Williamsburg 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
    Williamsburg $31

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: $128
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Mother's Day Sunset Dinner Cruise: SOLARIS Yacht Miramar Beach FL: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Williamsburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Williamsburg.

  • Taste of Williamsburg Food Tour by Junket: $79
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $84

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Williamsburg $34
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:

  • Flippers Adventures Dolphin Cruise: $25
  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises: $32
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Guided Sunset Cruise Up to 22 Passengers in Florida: $35
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $35
  • Chakras Sound Bath Meditation Experience in Destin: $35
  • Family Friendly Snorkeling and Dolphin Tour: $40
  • Hydrojet Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $40
  • Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise: $40
  • Fort Walton Beach: Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40
  • Fireworks Cruise on the Emerald Coast: $40

Tours and Activities in Williamsburg

Here are a few actual costs in Williamsburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Williamsburg by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Colonial Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Colonial Williamsburg Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15
  • Williamsburg East Ghost Tour: $16
  • Yorktown Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • The Original Ghosts of Williamsburg Tour: $20
  • The Original Ghost of Williamsburg Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Williamsburg by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Colonial Christmas Walking Tour: $20
  • Yorktown Hallowed Ground Candlelight Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial Williamsburg & Yorktown Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Williamsburg -

Sample the Local Flavors in Williamsburg

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

  • Colonial Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl : $35
  • The Murder Tour and Pub Crawl: $48


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

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


Which is Bigger, Destin or Williamsburg?

Destin has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Williamsburg, 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 Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Williamsburg. Many visitors come to Destin in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Williamsburg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Destin is generally around the same temperature as Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 4.7 inches (120 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Williamsburg 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Destin or Williamsburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Destin as well as Williamsburg. 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 Williamsburg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Destin is a little warmer than Williamsburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Williamsburg fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Williamsburg. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Williamsburg 61°F (16°C)

Should I visit Destin or Williamsburg in the Winter?

Both Williamsburg and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Williamsburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Williamsburg in the winter. In the winter, Destin is much warmer than Williamsburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Williamsburg averages at about 38°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Williamsburg. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Williamsburg 38°F (4°C)

Should I visit Destin or Williamsburg in the Spring?

Both Williamsburg and Destin during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Williamsburg for the natural beauty.

In April, Destin is generally a little warmer than Williamsburg. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Williamsburg fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Williamsburg. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Williamsburg receives 3 inches (76 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Williamsburg 57°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Williamsburg and Destin

Destin Williamsburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.6 inches (93 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 49°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 66°F (19°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 78°F (26°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 78°F (25°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.6 inches (118 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)