A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Sonoma for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Sonoma? 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 lively, fun, and party-hard 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.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. You'll find world class beauty in Sonoma as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Sonoma travel costs.

Daytona Beach and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Sonoma are popular destinations, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Sonoma attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Daytona Beach is famous for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also well known for The Daytona International Speedway. Sonoma is famous for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture.

How is Daytona Beach different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sonoma 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 Sonoma?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a moderate county for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Sonoma offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Daytona Beach or Sonoma? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

For foodies, Sonoma is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

Daytona Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Daytona Beach is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for nightlife.

Daytona Beach is a must-see party destination. 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.

Sonoma offers plenty to do in the evening. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Daytona Beach is a beach city with good options for its music scene. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its luxury resorts.

Sonoma is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.

Daytona Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. 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.

Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for the beach. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for its beaches.

Sonoma is considered a top beach destination. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

Many people head to Daytona Beach to enjoy the 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.

Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

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

Sonoma is a popular spot for hiking. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for 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.

Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Sonoma as well. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Daytona Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.

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 Sonoma Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Sonoma is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

Sonoma makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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 Sonoma Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Daytona Beach is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not popular with students.

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

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Neither Daytona Beach or Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.


Is Daytona Beach or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Sonoma

Neither Daytona Beach or Sonoma 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.

Sonoma is not a very walkable beach city. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.

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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Daytona Beach or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sonoma 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 Sonoma.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sonoma than Daytona Beach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sonoma that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sonoma 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 Sonoma.


  • How many days in Daytona Beach or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the live music and nightlife when visiting the destination of Daytona Beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the serene destination of Sonoma. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the food, 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 Sonoma?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sonoma. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the food, 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 Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Daytona Beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Sonoma. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This county 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 Sonoma?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the party-hard destination of Daytona Beach. This beach city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful county of Sonoma. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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, Sonoma 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
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Daytona Beach $269
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $269, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Sonoma? 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 Sonoma


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 and Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Sonoma $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Port Canaveral: $262
  • Private Transfer from Daytona to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $219
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $202

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $96

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
    Sonoma $16

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
  • Bioluminescence Paddle Tour: $75
  • Coastal Discovery Cruise: $75
  • Daytona Beach Champagne Sunset Cruise: $89
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • Paddle Pub Experience: $45
  • Sunrise Cruise on the Atlantic Ocean: $110
  • Discovery Dolphin Boat Tour: $35
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Sonoma $41

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 comparing the travel costs between Daytona Beach and Sonoma, we can see that Daytona Beach is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sonoma Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Sonoma, 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 Daytona Beach or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Sonoma. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Sonoma for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Sonoma in the summer. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Daytona Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in July than Sonoma. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sonoma because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Daytona Beach in October average around 74°F (23°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In October, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Sonoma in the Winter?

Both Sonoma and Daytona Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

In January, Daytona Beach is generally much warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets less rain in January than Sonoma. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Sonoma. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sonoma for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Daytona Beach is much warmer than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 69°F (21°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)