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

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a magical, breathtaking, and surreal national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park are popular destinations, Sequoia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sequoia National Park is very popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also well known for the General Sherman tree. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

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

While most people don't head to Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Virginia Beach and Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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 Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Virginia Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Sequoia National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

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

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park are both high quality 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.

Sequoia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Sequoia National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Sequoia National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Virginia Beach is a coastal city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

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 Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Virginia Beach
Sequoia National Park

Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park are reasonable 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.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.


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

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

How long in Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park?

Both Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sequoia National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sequoia National Park than Virginia Beach. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Virginia Beach 5-7 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park?

In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. 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.

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . 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 Sequoia National Park?

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

Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

Virginia Beach is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. 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 hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park?

In Virginia Beach, you'll find nightlife. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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.

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


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, Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park is $130. 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 Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Virginia Beach $71
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Virginia Beach $142
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park? 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 Sequoia National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Virginia Beach $39
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Virginia Beach

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


  • Beach Parking
    $10

Is it cheaper to fly into Virginia Beach or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park 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
    Sequoia National Park $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Virginia Beach $21
    Sequoia National Park $31

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 Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Virginia Beach $11
    Sequoia National Park $7.84


When comparing the travel costs between Virginia Beach and Sequoia National Park, we can see that Sequoia National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sequoia National Park Expensive?.