A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Jekyll Island for Families, Attractions, Beaches, and Food

Should you visit Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

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 Sarasota and Jekyll Island. 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a relaxing, secluded, and natural island. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and beaches.

Sarasota and Jekyll Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarasota. Although Sarasota and Jekyll Island are both popular with visitors, Sarasota has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sarasota is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Jekyll Island is known for its beaches and hiking. Sarasota is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. It is also home to the John and Mable Ringling Museum. Jekyll Island is popular for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Sarasota different from Jekyll Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

Sarasota is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Jekyll Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarasota is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Sarasota is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Resorts?

Sarasota is a city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island is great for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island is great for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

Sarasota is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Sarasota has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Families?

Sarasota is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sarasota is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Couples?

Sarasota and Jekyll Island both good destinations for a couple.

Sarasota makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Jekyll Island is a good city for couples to visit. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Sarasota or Jekyll Island a more walkable city?

Sarasota is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Sarasota is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable city. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jekyll Island or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

It's fun to spend time in either Sarasota or Jekyll Island. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sarasota due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-4 days is enough time in Jekyll Island.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sarasota than Jekyll Island 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 Sarasota.

One day in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Sarasota. 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.

The island of Jekyll Island offers museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarasota. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jekyll Island, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Sarasota. This city 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.

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Sarasota. 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.

Jekyll Island is a great place to explore. 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. This island offers something for everyone.

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

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

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

When is the best time to visit Sarasota or Jekyll Island?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Sarasota or Jekyll Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Jekyll Island. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sarasota is around the same temperature as Jekyll Island. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sarasota in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Jekyll Island averages at about 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives less sunshine than Jekyll Island during summer. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sarasota gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Jekyll Island. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sarasota or Jekyll Island in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Jekyll Island. The autumn months attract visitors to Sarasota because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year.

In October, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Jekyll Island. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 76°F (24°C), and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the autumn, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Jekyll Island. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 214 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in October than Jekyll Island. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Sarasota or Jekyll Island in the Winter?

Both Jekyll Island and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Sarasota is a little warmer than Jekyll Island in the winter. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jekyll Island during winter. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Jekyll Island. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sarasota or Jekyll Island in the Spring?

Both Jekyll Island and Sarasota during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Sarasota is a little warmer than Jekyll Island. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sarasota in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Jekyll Island averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the spring, Sarasota often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jekyll Island. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 285 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in April than Jekyll Island. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Typical Weather for Jekyll Island and Sarasota