A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Naples vs. Sun Valley for Families, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Naples or Sun Valley?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Naples and Sun 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.

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a active, adventurous, and outdoorsy town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Naples and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Naples or Sun Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Naples than Sun Valley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Naples is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Sun Valley is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. Also, Naples is famous for Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach. Sun Valley is well known for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Naples different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Naples is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Sun Valley. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Naples is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Naples or Sun Valley?

Naples
Sun Valley

Naples is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Naples is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

Is the Food Better in Naples or Sun Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples
Sun Valley

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Naples and Sun Valley.

Naples has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sun Valley makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Sun Valley

Both Naples and Sun Valley have notable vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Naples. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Sun Valley has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.


Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Naples
Sun Valley

If luxury resorts are your style, both Naples and Sun Valley have very good options.

In Naples, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

There are plenty of resorts in Sun Valley to choose from. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Sun Valley

Naples is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Naples. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

Naples
Sun Valley

Naples is terrific for its beaches. However, Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Naples offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.


Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sun Valley. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Naples offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Sun Valley?

Naples
Sun Valley

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Naples and Sun Valley.

Naples has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

Sun Valley is a great destination for shopping. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sun Valley is an extremely popular town to visit for families. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

Naples is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.


Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is renowned for couples. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sun Valley is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

Couples visit Naples frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Plenty of backpackers visit Naples. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

Is Naples or Sun Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Naples is lacking in options for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Sun Valley. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

Public transit is generally limited in Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.


Is Naples or Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Naples
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Sun Valley. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

Naples is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.

For even more information, also check out Is Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Sun Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Naples?

How long in Naples or Sun Valley?

Both Naples and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sun Valley than in Naples. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley than Naples 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 Sun Valley.


  • How many days in Naples or Sun Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Sun Valley 3-7

One day in Naples or Sun Valley?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing beach town of Naples, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Sun Valley. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Sun Valley?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Naples, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Sun Valley is a great place to explore. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Naples or Sun Valley?

Naples, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sun Valley. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Naples or Sun Valley?

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Sun Valley. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sun Valley or Naples?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $226, while the average daily cost in Sun Valley is $184. 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 Naples and Sun Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Sun Valley $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Sun Valley $190
Compare Hotels in Naples and Sun Valley

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Sun 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 Naples


Hotels in Sun 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: Naples Hotel Prices and Sun Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Sun Valley $61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

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

  • Naples to Southwest Florida Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $102

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Sun Valley?

Prices for flights to both Sun Valley and Naples 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
    Naples $70
    Sun Valley $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

For Naples, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Sun Valley $42

Tours and Activities in Naples

For Naples, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self-Guided Island Tour - CLEAR or Standard Kayak or Board - Bonita Springs : $30
  • Naples Sightseeing Boat Tour: $51
  • Trike Tour of Naples Florida - Fun Activity Downtown Naples: $55
  • Segway Tour of Downtown Naples FL - Explore The Fun Way: $55
  • Naples, Florida - Segway Electric Moped Tour - Family Fun: $55
  • Naples, Florida: Family Friendly Guided Electric Trike Tour: $55
  • Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour - Explore Naples Florida: $55
  • Naples, FL: Group Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour: $55
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $55
  • Gulf of Mexico Sunset Cruise from Naples: $55
  • Segway Tour Of Naples Florida Fun Family Experience: $55
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Sun Valley $49

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

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

  • Epic Naples Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Naples Expensive? and Is Sun Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Naples or Sun Valley?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Sun Valley, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.