A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Acadia National Park for Families, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Acadia 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.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and bustling coastal city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a beautiful, scenic, and picturesque national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches and hiking.

Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Acadia National Park. Although Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park are both popular with visitors, Acadia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Acadia National Park is more popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach is known for its nightlife and resorts. Acadia National Park is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter. It is also home to Cadillac Mountain. Virginia Beach is popular for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Acadia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Acadia National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Acadia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Virginia Beach. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Acadia National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Both Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park have good beaches worth visiting.

Virginia Beach has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park is great for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Acadia National Park is mediocre for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Acadia National Park can be found for those interested. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Virginia Beach is very family-friendly. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Acadia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park are both good to visit as a couple.

Virginia Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Acadia National Park is a good coastal city for couples to visit. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Virginia Beach. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acadia National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park are decent when it comes to walkability.

Virginia Beach is generally not a very walkable coastal city. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

Acadia National Park is generally not very walkable. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Virginia Beach 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 Acadia National Park.

One day in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Virginia Beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Acadia National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Virginia Beach is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Virginia Beach for five days. Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the coastal city of Virginia Beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Virginia Beach. Many people spend one week here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Virginia Beach, one week is sufficent for most.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park of Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park?

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 Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Acadia National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Virginia Beach in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 69°F (21°C).

Virginia Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Acadia National Park. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Virginia Beach is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 62°F (16°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Virginia Beach usually gets less rain in October than Acadia National Park. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

Both Acadia National Park and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

Both Acadia National Park and Virginia Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Virginia Beach is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Virginia Beach in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 43°F (6°C).

Virginia Beach usually gets less rain in April than Acadia National Park. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Virginia Beach