A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Acadia National Park for Families, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a party-hard, energetic, and lively beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and live music. See Daytona Beach travel costs.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is popular for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also well known for The Daytona International Speedway. Acadia National Park is famous for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

How is Daytona Beach different from Acadia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Both Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park offer a number of reasonable restaurants to choose from.

Daytona Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Daytona Beach is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

People head to Daytona Beach just to party. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Daytona Beach is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Daytona Beach active and fun. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Acadia National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Daytona Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Daytona Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park are nice choices.

Daytona Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Many people head to Acadia National Park to enjoy the beach. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Acadia National Park is a popular spot for hiking. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Daytona Beach is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Daytona Beach has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park More Beautiful?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

Acadia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.


Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park make for a nice place to visit.

Daytona Beach is a good beach city for couples to visit. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a popular place for backpackers. However, Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Daytona Beach is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Acadia National Park is not popular with students.

Daytona Beach is a great destination for students. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Acadia National Park is not popular with students.


Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a moderate national park for its public transit. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Public transit is quite limited in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

Is Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a moderate national park for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

Acadia National Park is generally not very walkable. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

For even more information, also check out Is Daytona Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Acadia National Park than in Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Daytona Beach 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 Acadia National Park.


  • How many days in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting the destination of Daytona Beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Acadia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Daytona Beach is a fun place to experience. Most people find that a weekend is more than enough time to see everything. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Daytona Beach for five days. You'll find live music and nightlife around the beach city of Daytona Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the picturesque destination of Acadia National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

The lively destination of Daytona Beach offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Acadia National Park. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Daytona Beach?

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

  • Daytona Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Daytona Beach $269
    Acadia National Park $206

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $269, while the average daily cost in Acadia National Park is $206. 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 Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park? 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 Daytona Beach


Hotels in Acadia National Park


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: Daytona Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Acadia National Park $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Daytona Beach 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
    Daytona Beach $138
    Acadia National Park $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Daytona Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Daytona Beach.

  • Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show Ticket in Daytona Beach: $53

Typical Food Prices in Acadia National Park

For Acadia National Park, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Acadia National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Daytona Beach are as follows:

  • St. Johns River Cruise - Blue Spring State Park : $38
  • 2-Hour Glass Bottom Guided Eco Tour in Flagler County-Small-group: $85
  • 3 Hour Coastal Fun Cruise : $150
  • 3 Hour Social Sip N Dip Party Cruise: $70
  • Coastal Discovery Cruise: $75
  • Daytona Beach Champagne Sunset Cruise: $89
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • Paddle Pub Experience: $45
  • Discovery Dolphin Boat Tour: $35
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • Dolphin and Wildlife Tour at Indian River Shores: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Acadia National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Daytona Beach

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Daytona Beach:

  • Karaoke Party Bus Dive Bar Crawl: $40
  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $50


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

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



When is the best time to visit Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park?

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 Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

Both Acadia National Park and Daytona Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in July than Acadia National Park. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Acadia National Park. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Daytona Beach is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Daytona Beach in October average around 74°F (23°C), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Daytona Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Acadia National Park. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Acadia National Park. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Acadia National Park because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Acadia National Park can be very cold. In January, Daytona Beach is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in January than Acadia National Park. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

Both Acadia National Park and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

Daytona Beach is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 69°F (21°C) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Daytona Beach usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)