A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Families and Couples

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree 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.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a unique, fascinating, and adventurous national park. With stunning beauty, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Daytona Beach and Joshua Tree 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
  • 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Joshua Tree National Park are popular destinations, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Joshua Tree 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. Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

How is Daytona Beach different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

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

Joshua Tree National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Daytona Beach is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is a beach city with good options for its music scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Daytona Beach. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is a beach city with good options for the beach. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Daytona Beach. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree 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.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree 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, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

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 Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. 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.

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

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Daytona Beach is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.

Daytona Beach is a very popular beach city 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not popular with students.


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

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Neither Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Joshua Tree National Park

Neither Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park are walkable places.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is not a very walkable beach city. You need a car to truly explore the park.

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

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

How long in Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

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


  • How many days in Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4

One day in Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the lively beach city of Daytona Beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the adventurous destination of Joshua Tree National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting the destination of Daytona Beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the nightlife. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Joshua Tree National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Daytona Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the unique destination of Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Daytona Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Joshua Tree 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, Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Daytona Beach $269
    Joshua Tree National Park $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $269, while the average daily cost in Joshua Tree National Park is $177. 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 Joshua Tree National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $47

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

Prices for flights to both Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $60

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Joshua Tree National Park $27

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

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

For Joshua Tree National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Rappelling Experience: $255
  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93

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 Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Daytona Beach is more expensive. And not only is Joshua Tree National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Joshua Tree National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park Expensive?.