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

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Portland?

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 Portland 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 natural, relaxing, and secluded island. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the live music, hiking, and shopping.

Jekyll Island and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Portland?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Portland than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Portland is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its museums, resorts, and beaches. Portland is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Also, Portland is famous for Washington Park. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jekyll Island is a island with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Both Jekyll Island and Portland offer a number of respectable restaurants to choose from.

Jekyll Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Portland offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Jekyll Island or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Jekyll Island is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Jekyll Island is not a live music destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Portland Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Portland Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Portland Better for Hiking?

Both Jekyll Island and Portland 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 Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Portland?

Portland is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Portland has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

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 Portland Better for Families?

Jekyll Island is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Jekyll Island or Portland Better for Couples?

Both Jekyll Island and Portland are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Jekyll Island is a good island for couples to visit. 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

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

Portland is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

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

Portland is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Portland has some public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

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

Portland is a very walkable destination. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jekyll Island and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Jekyll Island than in Portland. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

One day in Jekyll Island or Portland?

The island of Jekyll Island offers museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. 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 Portland?

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jekyll Island, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. 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 Portland?

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city 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 Portland?

Jekyll Island is a great place to explore. 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. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Portland. 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.

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

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives less sunshine than Portland during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Jekyll Island. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Portland. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Jekyll Island during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Portland. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Portland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Portland. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Jekyll Island is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Portland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Portland. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Portland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Portland. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in April than Portland. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Jekyll Island