A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Moab for Hiking, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Moab?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Moab. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a relaxing, laid-back, and wealthy beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Moab

Moab is a scenic, adventurous, and active town. Many visitors also come to Moab because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking and shopping. See Moab travel costs.

Cape Cod and Moab: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Moab?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Moab than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Moab is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Cape Cod is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Moab is more touristy than Cape Cod and is known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. Also, Moab is famous for Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cape Cod different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Moab?

Cape Cod
Moab

Moab is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Moab specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Moab? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Moab is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cape Cod. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Moab

Moab is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Moab doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Moab is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Moab is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod is great for its beaches. However, Moab is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Moab is not a beach destination.

Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Moab

Moab is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Moab is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Moab?

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod is great for shopping. Also, Moab is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Moab offers some nice shopping areas. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.


Is Cape Cod or Moab More Beautiful?

Cape Cod
Moab

Moab is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Moab because of it's amazing beauty. The desert landscapes and unique geological features make this a fascinating and beautiful area to explore. The dramatic arches in Arches National Park tell a unique story of how the geology of the area has changed.

Cape Cod is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Moab

Both Cape Cod and Moab are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Moab is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.

Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod and Moab both superb destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.


Is Cape Cod or Moab Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Cod
Moab

Moab is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Moab. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.

Is Cape Cod or Moab a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Moab

Cape Cod is a popular place for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.


For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Moab Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moab or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Moab?

In either Cape Cod or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than Moab because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Moab than Cape Cod 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 Moab.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Moab 2-5

One day in Cape Cod or Moab?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful town of Moab offers shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Moab?

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Moab is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Moab, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cape Cod or Moab?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This beach destination offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Moab is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Moab, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Cape Cod or Moab?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Moab is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Moab or Cape Cod?

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

  • Cape Cod Prices
    USA Prices
    Moab Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cape Cod $227
    Moab $416

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $227, while the average daily cost in Moab is $416. 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 Cod and Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Moab

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Moab? 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 Cod


Hotels in Moab


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: Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Moab $17

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab and Cape Cod 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 Cod $103
    Moab $64

Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

For Moab, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Moab $3.13

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $75
  • Provincetown West End History Tour : $38
  • The Pilgrim Monument Tour- From Harbor to Heights: $52
  • The Tides of Terror A Provincetown Hidden Horrors Tour: $68
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Chatham Bites and Sights Walking Guided Food Tasting Tour: $98
  • Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: $58
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Local Legends and Lobster Roll Tour: $92
  • Lucinda Liphol Provincetown Cemetery Tour: $30
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $46

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

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

  • BEST! Hell's Revenge U-Drive 4X4 Tour in Moab +Dinosaur Tracks!: $48
  • 2 hour Moab Ebike Petroglyph Tour: $117
  • 2.5 Hour Moab Hell's Revenge You Drive Off Road UTV Tour: $149
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $173
  • 3.5 Hour HELL'S REVENGE and FINS & THINGS You Drive UTV Tour: $239
  • 30+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $210
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $210
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $249
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $210
  • Arches National Park Backcountry Tour: $252

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Moab $66


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

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