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

Should you visit San Francisco or Redwood National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Francisco or Redwood National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a one-of-a-kind, scenic, and beautiful coastal city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Redwood National Park

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

San Francisco and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Francisco. Although San Francisco and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also well known for The Golden Gate Bridge. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is San Francisco 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 Francisco. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put San Francisco on the map. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

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 San Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Redwood National Park is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Redwood National Park is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through San Francisco, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

San Francisco is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

San Francisco has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

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

Is San Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Music?

San Francisco is a good destination for its music scene. However, Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Redwood National Park is not a live music destination.

Is San Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit San Francisco for it's beautiful beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir 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 Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

San Francisco and Redwood National Park are both places where visitors can find world-class hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, San Francisco draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Around Redwood National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

San Francisco is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

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 Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

San Francisco 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 Francisco is very family-friendly. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

San Francisco and Redwood National Park are both great to visit as a couple.

San Francisco is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Redwood National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is San Francisco or Redwood National Park Better for Students?

San Francisco is well known for students. However, Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit San Francisco. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Redwood National Park is not popular with students.

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

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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

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

San Francisco is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

San Francisco is a very walkable destination. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 Francisco Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in San Francisco or Redwood National Park?

In either San Francisco or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than Redwood National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for San Francisco, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco 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 Francisco.

One day in San Francisco or Redwood National Park?

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the impressive destination of Redwood National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 San Francisco or Redwood National Park?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood 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 San Francisco or Redwood National Park?

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the grand destination of Redwood National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This 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 San Francisco or Redwood National Park?

Because San Francisco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

You'll find around the beautiful park of Redwood National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Francisco and Redwood National Park, we can see that San Francisco 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 Francisco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Francisco 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 Francisco Expensive? and Is Redwood National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit San Francisco 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 Francisco or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Francisco as well as Redwood National Park. Many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

San Francisco is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

San Francisco usually gets less rain in July than Redwood National Park. San Francisco gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Redwood National Park and San Francisco are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, San Francisco is a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Francisco in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In October, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. San Francisco gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Redwood National Park and San Francisco during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, San Francisco is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in San Francisco average around 50°F (10°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. San Francisco usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. San Francisco gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Francisco and Redwood National Park. The spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

San Francisco is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in San Francisco averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In April, San Francisco usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. San Francisco gets 1.2 inches (31 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 Francisco