A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. Napa Valley for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Napa Valley, 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.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a picturesque, idyllic, and scenic area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Virginia Beach and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Napa Valley than Virginia Beach. While Virginia Beach is larger than Napa Valley, Napa Valley has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Napa Valley is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach is known for its resorts and beaches. Napa Valley is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. It is also home to Louis M. Martini Winery. Virginia Beach is popular for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is adequate for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Napa Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Napa Valley for the nightlife scene. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Virginia Beach. 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.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Napa Valley is well-known for its shopping. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Families?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Virginia Beach is a great coastal city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Virginia Beach. 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Napa Valley has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Students?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Napa Valley is not popular with students.

It's common for students to 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.

Napa Valley is not popular with students.


Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Neither Virginia Beach or Napa Valley offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Virginia Beach or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach
Napa Valley

Virginia Beach is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Napa Valley is not known for its 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.

Napa Valley is not a walkable coastal city. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Virginia Beach or Napa Valley. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley.


  • How many days in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Virginia Beach 5-7 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the fun-filled coastal city of Virginia Beach. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Napa Valley, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Virginia Beach. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the relaxing coastal city of Virginia Beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Napa Valley. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Virginia Beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the area of Napa Valley. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Napa Valley or Virginia Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Virginia Beach is $126, while the average daily cost in Napa Valley is $288. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Virginia Beach and Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Virginia Beach $71
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Virginia Beach $142
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Virginia Beach and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Virginia Beach or Napa Valley? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Virginia Beach


Hotels in Napa Valley


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Virginia Beach Hotel Prices and Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Virginia Beach $39
    Napa Valley $183
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Virginia Beach:


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley and Virginia Beach change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Virginia Beach $30
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Virginia Beach $21
    Napa Valley $28

Tours and Activities in Virginia Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Virginia Beach.

  • Dolphin Kayak Tour in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim: $87
  • Kayak Dolphin Experience in Virginia Beach Must know how to swim: $90
  • Neptune Ghosts: Ghosts of the Coast By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • Small Group Dolphin Kayak Eco-Tour: $68
  • Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours: $68
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Virginia Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Dolphin Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: $60
  • Kayak Dolphin Tours | Must Know How to Swim: $78
  • Morning Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Neptune Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: $26
  • Sunset Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour: $45
  • Virginia Historic Adventure!: $200

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Virginia Beach $11
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Virginia Beach and Napa Valley, we can see that Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

Virginia Beach has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Napa Valley. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach and Napa Valley, 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 Virginia Beach or Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Virginia Beach is a little warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Virginia Beach in July average around 79°F (26°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Virginia Beach. In July, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Virginia Beach 79°F (26°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Virginia Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Virginia Beach is generally around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 62°F (16°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. In the autumn, Virginia Beach often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Virginia Beach 62°F (16°C) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Virginia Beach can get quite cold in the winter. Virginia Beach is much colder than Napa Valley in the winter. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 39°F (4°C) in January, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Virginia Beach 39°F (4°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Virginia Beach is around the same temperature as Napa Valley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Virginia Beach in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Virginia Beach this time of the year. In the spring, Virginia Beach often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in April than Napa Valley. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Virginia Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 39°F (4°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 41°F (5°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 49°F (10°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 74°F (24°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.7 inches (145 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)