A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Hood River for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Hood River?

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 Clearwater and Hood River. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled coastal city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Clearwater travel costs.

Hood River

Hood River is a charming, agricultural, and quaint town. Hood River is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Hood River travel costs.

Clearwater and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Hood River are popular destinations, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also well known for Clearwater Beach. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is Clearwater different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a good destination for snow skiing. However, Clearwater is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Clearwater is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Hood River?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Hood River both to be superb destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Clearwater and Hood River.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hood River is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Hood River is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Hood River is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Hood River is a popular spot for hiking. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Hood River?

Both Clearwater and Hood River are nice shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Clearwater or Hood River More Beautiful?

Hood River is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hood River is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Hood River are superb family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Hood River both superb destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Hood River makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hood River is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Clearwater and Hood River offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Clearwater or Hood River a more walkable city?

Clearwater is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Hood River. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hood River than Clearwater 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 Hood River.

One day in Clearwater or Hood River?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and skiing around the quaint town of Hood River, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Hood River?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Hood River, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Clearwater or Hood River?

Clearwater, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hood River, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Hood River?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Hood River is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Hood River?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Hood River, 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 Clearwater or Hood River?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Clearwater is a little warmer than Hood River. Typically, the summer temperatures in Clearwater in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Hood River averages at about 68°F (20°C).

In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Hood River. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Hood River. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Hood River in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Hood River. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hood River in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 75°F (24°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hood River. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Should I visit Clearwater or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Hood River. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Hood River for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hood River can be very cold during winter. Clearwater is much warmer than Hood River in the winter. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hood River. Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Hood River in the Spring?

Both Hood River and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hood River because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Clearwater is much warmer than Hood River. Typically, the spring temperatures in Clearwater in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Hood River averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Hood River. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Hood River and Clearwater