A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Canaveral vs. Sonoma for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cape Canaveral or Sonoma, 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. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Cape Canaveral travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Sonoma travel costs.

Cape Canaveral and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Cape Canaveral and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cape Canaveral attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Sonoma is more touristy than Cape Canaveral and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. Cape Canaveral is famous for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States.

How is Cape Canaveral different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Cape Canaveral is terrific for its historical sights. However, Sonoma is not known for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Cape Canaveral has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.


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

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Sonoma is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

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

The nightlife in Sonoma has something for everybody. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Sonoma is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

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.


Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for the beach. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Sonoma. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Cape Canaveral. 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.

Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for hiking. However, Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Cape Canaveral is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is a great county for its shopping areas. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Cape Canaveral is a great destination for shopping. 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.


Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Cape Canaveral is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma Better for Families?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Cape Canaveral is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for its family-friendly activities.

Cape Canaveral is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Sonoma has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

Cape Canaveral is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.


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

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Neither Cape Canaveral or Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Cape Canaveral or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Cape Canaveral
Sonoma

Neither Cape Canaveral or Sonoma are walkable places.

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

Sonoma is not a walkable town. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting? and Is Sonoma Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Cape Canaveral?

How long in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Canaveral or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cape Canaveral, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma 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 Sonoma.


  • How many days in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Canaveral 1-3 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cape Canaveral. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Sonoma, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

Cape Canaveral is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sonoma is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Canaveral. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sonoma. 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 Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Cape Canaveral. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the county of Sonoma. 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 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, Sonoma 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
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Canaveral $251
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Canaveral is $251, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Canaveral $155
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Canaveral $310
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Cape Canaveral and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Cape Canaveral or Sonoma? 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 Sonoma


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: Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $35
    Sonoma $134

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 Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Canaveral $17
    Sonoma $16

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 Sonoma

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

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Canaveral $13
    Sonoma $41


When comparing the travel costs between Cape Canaveral and Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma 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 Cape Canaveral Expensive? and Is Sonoma Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cape Canaveral or Sonoma?

Cape Canaveral has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Cape Canaveral and Sonoma, 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 Sonoma?

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

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

Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Sonoma in the summer. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 80°F (27°C) in July, and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Cape Canaveral. In July, Cape Canaveral usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Cape Canaveral gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Canaveral 80°F (27°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Cape Canaveral during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cape Canaveral for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Sonoma in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cape Canaveral is a little warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cape Canaveral in October average around 74°F (24°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Canaveral. Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Cape Canaveral gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Canaveral 74°F (24°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Canaveral and Sonoma. Many visitors come to Cape Canaveral in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sonoma for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Cape Canaveral is generally much warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Cape Canaveral average around 60°F (15°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Cape Canaveral usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Cape Canaveral gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Canaveral 60°F (15°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Cape Canaveral or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Canaveral as well as Sonoma. Most visitors come to Cape Canaveral for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Cape Canaveral is much warmer than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Cape Canaveral averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Cape Canaveral usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Cape Canaveral gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Cape Canaveral.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Canaveral 70°F (21°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 65°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 80°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 74°F (24°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 64°F (18°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 62°F (16°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)