A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ocean City vs. Sequoia National Park for Families, Backpackers, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

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

Should I visit Ocean City or Sequoia National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a laid back, active, and energetic city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a breathtaking, surreal, and impressive national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Ocean City and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Ocean City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Ocean City is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Ocean City is well known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Sequoia National Park is well known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree.

How is Ocean City different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia National Park and Ocean City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Ocean City or Sequoia National Park.

Ocean City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

While most people don't head to Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Ocean City is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Ocean City is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Ocean City has a large number of nightlife venues. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Ocean City is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

In Ocean City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Ocean City is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Ocean City attract visitors from all over. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

People visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Ocean City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Both Ocean City and Sequoia National Park are respectable shopping destinations.

Ocean City has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Sequoia National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are markets within the park.


Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Ocean City is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sequoia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Ocean City is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

Sequoia National Park is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Ocean City and Sequoia National Park make for a excellent place to visit.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ocean City is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sequoia National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Ocean City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in the area, but there are some affordable motels if you look beyond the beachfront properties.


Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Both Ocean City and Sequoia National Park offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Is Ocean City or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Ocean City
Sequoia National Park

Ocean City and Sequoia National Park both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Ocean City is generally not very walkable. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

Sequoia National Park is generally not a very walkable city. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Ocean City Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Ocean City?

How long in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

Both Ocean City and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Ocean City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ocean City than Sequoia National Park. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Ocean City, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Ocean City 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ocean City 3-7 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

In Ocean City, you'll find nightlife and food. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With around the impressive national park of Sequoia National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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.


A weekend in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ocean City. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

With around the destination of Sequoia National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Five days in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

Ocean City is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sequoia National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

In Ocean City, you'll find food and nightlife. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Ocean City?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ocean City is $160, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $130. 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 Ocean City and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ocean City $83
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ocean City $166
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Ocean City and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ocean City or Sequoia 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 Ocean City


Hotels in Sequoia 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: Ocean City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ocean City $47
    Sequoia National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Ocean City or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Ocean City 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
    Ocean City $49
    Sequoia National Park $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ocean City $18
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Ocean City

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ocean City are as follows:

  • Assateague Island Morning Cruise: $79
  • Atlantic Coastline Parasailing Adventure: $132
  • Atlantic Ocean Catamaran Cruise with Crew: $125
  • Banana Boat Fun Adventure: $33
  • Bay Hopping Food Boat Tour with Tastings: $179
  • Downtown and Boardwalk Foodie Walking Tour: $110
  • Guided Happy Hour Bar Hopping Tour: $50
  • High-Speed Sunrise Cruise and Dolphin Watching: $25
  • High-Speed Sunset Cruise & Dolphin Watch: $36
  • Midtown District Walking Foodie Tour: $110
  • Speedboat Coastal Tour with Dolphin Spotting: $25

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

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

  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ocean City $14
    Sequoia National Park $7.84


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ocean City Expensive? and Is Sequoia National Park Expensive?.