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

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Wilmington?

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 Wilmington 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a welcoming, charming, and historic city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Jekyll Island and Wilmington: 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 with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Wilmington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wilmington than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wilmington is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. Wilmington is well known for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. Also, Wilmington is famous for the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Jekyll Island different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.


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

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

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

Wilmington is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

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 Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Wilmington Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Jekyll Island is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Wilmington Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Both Jekyll Island and Wilmington are considered to be high quality beach destinations.

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.

Many people visit Wilmington for it's beautiful beaches. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is Jekyll Island or Wilmington Better for its Old Town?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Wilmington is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington has an old town worth visiting. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Jekyll Island or Wilmington Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Jekyll Island is great for hiking. However, Wilmington is not a hiking destination.

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

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Wilmington?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

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

Wilmington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

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 Wilmington Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Both Jekyll Island and Wilmington are high quality 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.

Wilmington is a very family-friendly place to visit. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is Jekyll Island or Wilmington Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

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

Wilmington makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington Better for Students?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

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

Plenty of students visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

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

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

Wilmington 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to 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 Wilmington a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Wilmington

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable city. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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 Wilmington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wilmington or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Wilmington?

In either Jekyll Island or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington 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 2-5 days is enough time in Wilmington.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Wilmington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Wilmington 2-5

One day in Jekyll Island or Wilmington?

With museums around the secluded island of Jekyll Island, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Wilmington. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Wilmington?

With museums around the destination of Jekyll Island, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Wilmington?

Jekyll Island, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Wilmington. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This 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 Wilmington?

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Wilmington. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Wilmington 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 Wilmington is $204. 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 Wilmington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Wilmington $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Wilmington $240
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Wilmington

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Wilmington? 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 Wilmington


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 Wilmington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Wilmington $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Wilmington?

Prices for flights to both Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Wilmington $17

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

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

  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50
  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50
  • 5-Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Adventure Tour: $90
  • 5-Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Adventure Tour: $90
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • Eco Kayak Tour in Wrightsville Beach: $75
  • Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & Breweries: $85
  • Half-Day E-Bike Tour of the Filming Locations in One Tree Hill: $85
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach: $50

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Wilmington $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 3-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jekyll Island and Wilmington, we can see that Wilmington 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 Wilmington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wilmington 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 Wilmington Expensive?.



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

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 Wilmington in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Wilmington. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Wilmington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Wilmington averages at about 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington 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 Wilmington during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

Wilmington receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Wilmington. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Wilmington in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Wilmington. The autumn months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Wilmington fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 227 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Wilmington. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Wilmington in the Winter?

Both Wilmington and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Jekyll Island is much warmer than Wilmington in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Wilmington fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 180 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Wilmington. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Wilmington in the Spring?

Both Wilmington and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wilmington in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Wilmington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Wilmington averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In Wilmington, 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 Wilmington. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 278 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Wilmington. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Wilmington and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Wilmington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)