A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Virginia Beach vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Virginia Beach or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or San Diego, 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 bustling, fun-filled, and relaxing coastal city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the nightlife and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a dynamic, energetic, and relaxed coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Virginia Beach and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

You'll generally find more things to do in San Diego than Virginia Beach. San Diego is bigger than Virginia Beach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. San Diego is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo. Virginia Beach is well known for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego 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 San Diego?

San Diego is great for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Diego has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego 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 San Diego for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for its live music scene. However, Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Virginia Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Virginia Beach and San Diego.

With a selection of resorts, Virginia Beach makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

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.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Virginia Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is terrific for the beache. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the beach.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in 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.

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.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Diego. 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.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. 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.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for students.

San Diego is a great destination 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.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

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

San Diego 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 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 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 San Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

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

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

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

One day in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife around the coastal city of Virginia Beach. 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.

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife around the bustling destination of Virginia Beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife around the bustling coastal city of Virginia Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. 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 San Diego. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or San Diego?

Virginia Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Virginia Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the coastal city of San Diego. 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 beaches. 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 San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 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 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Virginia Beach. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Virginia Beach is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during summer. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Virginia Beach. In July, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than San Diego. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Virginia Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Virginia Beach is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Virginia Beach in October average around 62°F (16°C), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, 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 San Diego. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and San Diego. Most visitors come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Virginia Beach can be very cold during winter. In January, Virginia Beach is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 39°F (4°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Virginia Beach usually receives more rain than San Diego. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as San Diego. The spring months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Virginia Beach is cooler than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. 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 San Diego. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Virginia Beach