A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Boone for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Boone?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Boone can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a secluded, natural, and relaxing island. It's also popular because of the museums, beaches, and hiking.

Boone

Boone is a relaxing, quaint, and picturesque town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Jekyll Island and Boone: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Boone?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boone. Although Jekyll Island and Boone are popular destinations, Boone has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boone is very popular for its skiing, food, nightlife, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Boone is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. It is also well known for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Boone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Skiing?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Jekyll Island is not a skiing destination.

Boone draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Jekyll Island is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Boone?

Jekyll Island
Boone

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Boone and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Boone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Boone? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Boone is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Boone has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.


Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Jekyll Island is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Jekyll Island as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Jekyll Island is a great island for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

Jekyll Island is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Boone is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Both Jekyll Island and Boone are destinations which offer superb hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Boone. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.


Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Boone?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boone. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Both Jekyll Island and Boone are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Boone is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Boone makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.


Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Boone is a good town to visit for backpackers. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Students?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Boone is a very popular town for students. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Is Jekyll Island or Boone Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.


Is Jekyll Island or Boone a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Boone

Boone is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Boone is a very walkable destination. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Boone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boone or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Boone?

It's fun to spend time in either Jekyll Island or Boone. In our opinion, Boone has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Boone than Jekyll Island. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone than Jekyll Island 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 Boone.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Boone? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Boone 2-4

One day in Jekyll Island or Boone?

In Jekyll Island, many people enjoy the museums that this relaxing destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Even though Boone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Boone?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jekyll Island. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boone. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Jekyll Island or Boone?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Boone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Jekyll Island or Boone?

You'll find museums around the secluded destination of Jekyll Island. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Boone is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boone or Jekyll Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $156, while the average daily cost in Boone is $173. 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 Jekyll Island and Boone in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Boone $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Boone $182
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Boone

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Boone? 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 Jekyll Island


Hotels in Boone


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: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Boone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Boone $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Boone?

Prices for flights to both Boone and Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $45
    Boone $53

Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Boone $53

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Boone $26


When comparing the travel costs between Jekyll Island and Boone, we can see that Boone 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 Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Boone Expensive?.