A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Nags Head for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saint Simons or Nags Head?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nags Head? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Nags Head

It's also known for food.

Saint Simons and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Nags Head are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Nags Head is popular for

How is Saint Simons different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nags Head and Saint Simons. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Saint Simons is adequate for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons is adequate for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is great for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a popular place for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Saint Simons is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Nags Head.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Nags Head is very family-friendly. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Saint Simons is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Saint Simons or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Both Saint Simons and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Saint Simons. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint Simons than Nags Head. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint Simons that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons than Nags Head 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 Saint Simons.

One day in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Nags Head is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

In Nags Head, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Saint Simons 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.

Nags Head is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Nags Head Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Nags Head, 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.

When is the best time to visit Saint Simons or Nags Head?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Nags Head. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nags Head in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Nags Head. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Nags Head. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Nags Head in the winter for the cuisine.

Nags Head can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in January than Nags Head. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nags Head in the Spring?

Both Nags Head and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nags Head. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Saint Simons