A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a idyllic, scenic, and picturesque area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Jekyll Island and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Napa Valley. Although Jekyll Island and Napa Valley are popular destinations, Napa Valley has more sights and attractions for tourists. Napa Valley is very popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Napa Valley is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also well known for Louis M. Martini Winery. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Jekyll Island is a island with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

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

Napa Valley has a large number of nightlife venues. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Jekyll Island is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

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

The beaches at Jekyll Island attract visitors from all over. 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.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Both Jekyll Island and Napa Valley are destinations which offer great 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 Napa Valley. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Jekyll Island is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Jekyll Island or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Neither Jekyll Island or Napa Valley offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.


Is Jekyll Island or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Napa Valley

Neither Jekyll Island or Napa Valley are walkable places.

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

Napa Valley is not a walkable island. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Jekyll Island or Napa Valley. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the natural island of Jekyll Island. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 nightlife when visiting the scenic destination of Napa Valley. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the secluded destination of Jekyll Island. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Napa Valley?

The secluded island of Jekyll Island offers museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Napa Valley. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This area 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 Napa Valley?

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Jekyll Island. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful area of Napa Valley. 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, Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley is $288. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

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

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $184
  • Napa Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Napa Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa Valley Winery Open Air Tour: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

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

  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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

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 Napa Valley Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Napa Valley?

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 Jekyll Island or Napa Valley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Napa Valley. The summer months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Napa Valley this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jekyll Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Napa Valley. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Napa Valley in the Winter?

Both Napa Valley and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Napa Valley in the Spring?

Both Napa Valley and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the natural beauty during these months.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Napa Valley in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)