A Travel Price Comparison for California San Diego vs. Redwood National Park for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit San Diego or Redwood National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Diego and Redwood National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Diego

San Diego is a relaxed, outdoorsy, and idyllic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a impressive, monumental, and grand park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

San Diego and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although San Diego and Redwood National Park are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Redwood National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is San Diego different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

San Diego is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Is the Food Better in San Diego or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

San Diego is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Music?

San Diego is well known for its music scene. However, Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a good destination for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Redwood National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

San Diego is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly destination. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Redwood National Park is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Redwood National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Students?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Diego is a coastal city with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is San Diego or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

San Diego is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable coastal city. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or San Diego?

How long in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

In either San Diego or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Diego than Redwood National Park. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Redwood National Park 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 San Diego.

One day in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

In San Diego, you'll find shopping and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

You'll find around the park of Redwood National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the grand destination of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

San Diego is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the impressive park of Redwood National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in San Diego or Redwood National Park?

You'll find live music and food around the fun-filled destination of San Diego. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

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

When is the best time to visit San Diego or Redwood National Park?

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 San Diego or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Diego as well as Redwood National Park. The summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

In the summer, San Diego is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in San Diego in July average around 71°F (22°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In the summer, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. San Diego gets 306 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

San Diego usually gets less rain in July than Redwood National Park. San Diego gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and San Diego are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, San Diego is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in San Diego average around 68°F (20°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. San Diego gets 244 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, San Diego usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. San Diego gets 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Diego or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

Both Redwood National Park and San Diego during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

San Diego is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in San Diego averages around 57°F (14°C) in January, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. In the winter, San Diego often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. San Diego gets 239 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Diego usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. San Diego gets 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Diego or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Diego and Redwood National Park. Many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, San Diego is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in San Diego in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 50°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park this time of the year. In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Diego usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. San Diego gets 277 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, San Diego usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. San Diego gets 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and San Diego