A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Yosemite National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park?

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 Yosemite National Park 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. Other popular activities here include museums, beaches, and hiking.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular, world-famous, and stunning national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Jekyll Island and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Jekyll Island and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Yosemite National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yosemite National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also well known for El Capitan. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Jekyll Island is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Both Jekyll Island and Yosemite National Park offer a number of reasonable 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Jekyll Island is not a good place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Jekyll Island for the nightlife. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

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


Is Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Jekyll Island is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Yosemite National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Jekyll Island is a moderate island for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Jekyll Island has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Both Jekyll Island and Yosemite National Park are excellent 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.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yosemite National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Yosemite National Park has some public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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 Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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 Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park?

Both Jekyll Island and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in Jekyll Island. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park?

The island of Jekyll Island offers museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while 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 when visiting the stunning destination of Yosemite National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Yosemite National Park?

The natural destination of Jekyll Island offers museums. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Yosemite National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jekyll Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the popular destination of Yosemite National Park. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This national park 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 Yosemite National Park?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Yosemite National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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, Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park is $129. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park? 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 Yosemite National Park


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 Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Yosemite National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Waterfalls of Yosemite: Customizable Private Tour: $495
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $11
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Yosemite National Park $11


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

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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.