A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Jekyll Island or San Diego?

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 San Diego 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 relaxing, secluded, and natural island. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a hip, dynamic, and energetic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Jekyll Island and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Jekyll Island and San Diego are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Jekyll Island is popular for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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.

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

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

San Diego is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

San Diego has a large number of nightlife venues. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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

Is Jekyll Island or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Jekyll Island is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in San Diego while you're in town. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Jekyll Island is not a live music destination.

Is Jekyll Island or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

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

Is Jekyll Island or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jekyll Island or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful 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.

Is Jekyll Island or San Diego Better for Hiking?

Both Jekyll Island and San Diego are destinations which offer very good 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 San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or San Diego?

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

San Diego has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

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 San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Jekyll Island or San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

San Diego is a good coastal city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego Better for Students?

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

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

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

San Diego 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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 San Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or San Diego?

In either Jekyll Island or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Jekyll Island because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Jekyll Island or San Diego?

You'll find museums around the island of Jekyll Island. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the energetic destination of San Diego. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 San Diego?

You'll find museums around the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Jekyll Island or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the relaxing island of Jekyll Island. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of San Diego. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Jekyll Island or San Diego?

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal city of San Diego. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jekyll Island and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and San Diego. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 82°F (28°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 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 San Diego. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as San Diego. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. 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 San Diego. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Jekyll Island is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jekyll Island in January average around 53°F (12°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Jekyll Island usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than San Diego. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 68°F (20°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Jekyll Island