A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Daytona Beach vs. Vernon for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Vernon?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Vernon? 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 fun, party-hard, and energetic beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and live music. See Daytona Beach travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Daytona Beach and Vernon: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Vernon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Vernon are popular destinations, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, and big city activities, while Vernon attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, and shopping. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also well known for The Daytona International Speedway. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Daytona Beach different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Vernon is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Vernon. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Vernon is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vernon area. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

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 Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Daytona Beach is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Daytona Beach or Vernon Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Daytona Beach is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Daytona Beach is a moderate beach city for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Daytona Beach is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

Daytona Beach has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

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

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Vernon?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Vernon is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Many visitors go to Vernon to go shopping. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

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 Vernon Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

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

Vernon is a family-friendly place to visit. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

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 Vernon Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

With fun activities for couples, both Daytona Beach and Vernon 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.


Is Daytona Beach or Vernon Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Daytona Beach is terrific for students. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not popular with students.

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

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Vernon is a moderate town 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

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 Vernon a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Vernon

Vernon is a moderate town for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

Vernon is generally not very walkable. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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 Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Vernon?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Daytona Beach or Vernon?

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 museums and food when visiting the quiet destination of Vernon. 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 Vernon?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. A weekend may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vernon. 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 Vernon?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Vernon. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the energetic 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 museums and food around the town of Vernon. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Daytona Beach $269
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $269, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Vernon -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43

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
    Vernon -

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

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

  • Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon with Experienced Captain: $35
  • Discovery Dolphin Boat Tour: $35
  • St. Johns River Cruise - Blue Spring State Park : $38
  • Scenic Mangrove Tunnel Paddle Tour – New Smyrna Beach: $45
  • Paddle Pub Experience: $45
  • Kayaking Backwaters of New Smyrna Beach Ecotour/Birdwatching: $50
  • Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour in New Smyrna Beach: $50
  • New Smyrna Mangrove Paddle & Mimosa Tour: $55
  • Zipline Adventure through Tuscawilla Park: $59
  • Nighttime iSUP Glow Paddleboard Adventure in Daytona Beach: $60
  • Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Vernon $13

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

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 Vernon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Vernon?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Daytona Beach or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 Vernon in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Vernon. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Daytona Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Daytona Beach is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Daytona Beach in October average around 74°F (23°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Vernon. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Vernon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Vernon can be very cold. In January, Daytona Beach is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Vernon. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Vernon. The spring months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Daytona Beach is much warmer than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 69°F (21°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)