A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Nags Head for Couples, Families, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Nags Head

It's also known for food.

Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Nags Head is popular for

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Nags Head has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is great for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head are superb family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nags Head is very family-friendly. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Fort Lauderdale is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fort Lauderdale is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Fort Lauderdale has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Nags Head. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Nags Head. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Fort Lauderdale that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Nags Head 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 Fort Lauderdale.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. 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.

The destination of Nags Head offers food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the luxury destination of Fort Lauderdale. 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The of Nags Head offers food. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic coastal city of Fort Lauderdale. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

Nags Head is a great place to explore. This offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The of Nags Head offers food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head, 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 Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Nags Head. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Nags Head. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Nags Head for the cuisine during these months.

Nags Head can be very cold during winter. In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Nags Head in the Spring?

Both Nags Head and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nags Head. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Fort Lauderdale