A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Nags Head for Families, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Nags Head, 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.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a iconic, fascinating, and wonder-filled town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Cape Canaveral travel costs.

Nags Head

It's also popular because of the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Cape Canaveral and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cape Canaveral than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cape Canaveral is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Nags Head is more popular for its nightlife. Cape Canaveral is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. Also, Cape Canaveral is famous for The Kennedy Space Center. Nags Head is well known for

How is Cape Canaveral different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nags Head and Cape Canaveral. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Cape Canaveral is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Cape Canaveral from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Canaveral and Nags Head can be an enjoyable experience.

Cape Canaveral is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

Nags Head offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Nags Head is a great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Nags Head has something for everybody. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

Most people don't head to Cape Canaveral specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Cape Canaveral has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Cape Canaveral is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Cape Canaveral. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Cape Canaveral is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cape Canaveral is a very family-friendly destination. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly town. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.


Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Cape Canaveral is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Cape Canaveral is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Nags Head is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Cape Canaveral is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You won't find any hostels in the area, but you may have some luck finding affordable accommodation nearby.

Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Neither Cape Canaveral or Nags Head offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.


Is Cape Canaveral or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Nags Head

Nags Head is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Nags Head is generally not a very walkable . This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable town. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Both Cape Canaveral and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Cape Canaveral. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nags Head than Cape Canaveral 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 Nags Head.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Cape Canaveral. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Canaveral has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Nags Head, you'll find food and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

You'll find museums and food around the iconic destination of Cape Canaveral. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nags Head is a great place to explore. 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 Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the iconic town of Cape Canaveral. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Cape Canaveral is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Nags Head, you'll find nightlife and food. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head or Cape Canaveral?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Cape Canaveral Prices
    USA Prices
    Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Canaveral $251
    Nags Head $179

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $251, while the average daily cost in Nags Head is $179. 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 Cape Canaveral and Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Nags Head? 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 Cape Canaveral


Hotels in Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Nags Head $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

Also for Cape Canaveral, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Port Canaveral to Orlando by Bus or Limo: $292
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $269
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Vistana Centre Drive: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to SeaWorld: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $261
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Pointe Orlando: $252
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $236
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO : $215
  • Private SUV Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando Theme Parks: $210
  • MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Round Trip Private Transfer: $170
  • Private Transfer: Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO in Luxury SUV: $167
  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head and Cape Canaveral 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
    Cape Canaveral $74
    Nags Head $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Nags Head $14

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Canaveral.

  • Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $80
  • Canaveral Private Fishing Charter Experience,: $55
  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $56
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • Cocoa Beach: Aerial Adventure Park Ticket: $56
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • Kennedy Space Center from Port Canaveral & return to Cruise Ship : $70
  • Port Canaveral: Airboat Wildlife Tour with Gator Encounter: $97
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Nags Head $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Canaveral Expensive? and Is Nags Head Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

Cape Canaveral has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Nags Head, 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 Cape Canaveral or Nags Head?

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 Cape Canaveral or Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Cape Canaveral are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cape Canaveral is around the same temperature as Nags Head. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Canaveral in July average around 80°F (27°C), and Nags Head averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Nags Head in the Autumn?

Both Nags Head and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Cape Canaveral is generally a little warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 74°F (24°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Nags Head. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cape Canaveral is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Nags Head. The winter months attract visitors to Cape Canaveral because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nags Head in the winter. Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Nags Head in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Nags Head in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Nags Head. The beaches are the main draw to Cape Canaveral this time of year.

In the spring, Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Canaveral in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Nags Head averages at about 59°F (15°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets less rain in April than Nags Head. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)