A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Olympic National Park for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

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 Olympic National Park. 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 relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Clearwater travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Clearwater and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its 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. Olympic National Park is famous for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Clearwater different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

Clearwater is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Clearwater. 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.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Olympic National Park.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. 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.

Olympic National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Olympic National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Olympic National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

Clearwater is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Clearwater offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Olympic National Park is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Olympic National Park 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, Olympic National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Olympic National Park 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.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Olympic National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Olympic National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Clearwater and Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Clearwater or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Clearwater is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable coastal city. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

In either Clearwater or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Clearwater has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Clearwater than Olympic National Park. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Olympic National Park. 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 Olympic National Park. 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 Clearwater than Olympic National Park 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 Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

In Clearwater, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

With museums around the pristine park of Olympic National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

With museums around the destination of Olympic National Park, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.

Five days in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

Clearwater is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Olympic National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

You'll find nightlife and food around the adventure-filled destination of Clearwater. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Olympic National Park, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Olympic National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Olympic National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park.

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

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Olympic National Park?

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 Clearwater or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Clearwater is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Clearwater in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Olympic National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 210 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Olympic National Park. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Olympic National Park and Clearwater during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 75°F (24°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 113 hours of full sun.

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Olympic National Park. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Olympic National Park can be very cold during winter. Clearwater is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Olympic National Park. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Clearwater is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Clearwater in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Clearwater