A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Destin vs. Moncton for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Moncton?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Moncton can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a relaxing, peaceful, and family-friendly beach town. Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Destin travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Destin and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Moncton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Destin than Moncton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Destin is better known for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Moncton is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Destin is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Also, Destin is famous for Baytowne Wharf. Moncton is well known for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Destin different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Moncton?

Moncton is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Destin or Moncton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Destin and Moncton.

Destin offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Moncton has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Destin or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Moncton is a moderate city for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Destin is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Destin to choose from. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Destin is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Destin for it's beautiful beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Moncton?

Both Destin and Moncton are notable shopping destinations.

Destin is a great destination for shopping. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Moncton. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Destin or Moncton More Beautiful?

Destin is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or Moncton Better for Families?

Destin is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Destin. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Destin or Moncton Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Moncton are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Destin is a nice destination for couples. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Moncton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Destin or Moncton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Moncton is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Moncton a more walkable city?

Moncton is very good for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Destin?

How long in Destin or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Destin or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Destin than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Moncton than Destin 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 Moncton.

One day in Destin or Moncton?

In Destin, you'll find food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Moncton. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Moncton?

In Destin, you'll find shopping and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Moncton is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Moncton?

Destin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Destin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Destin or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. In Destin, you'll find shopping and food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Moncton. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Moncton, 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 Destin or Moncton?

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 Destin or Moncton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Destin as well as Moncton. Many visitors come to Destin in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Moncton for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Destin is generally a little warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Destin receives a lot of rain in the summer. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Moncton. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Moncton because of the shopping scene.

Destin is much warmer than Moncton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. It's quite rainy in Destin. In October, Destin usually receives around the same amount of rain as Moncton. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Destin or Moncton in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Moncton in the winter. In the winter, Destin is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Moncton averages at about -8°C (17°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Moncton. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Moncton. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Destin this time of year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moncton. In April, Destin is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Destin usually receives less rain than Moncton. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Destin