A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Portland for Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Portland?

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 Portland can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a scenic, laid-back, and progressive city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and hiking. See Portland travel costs.

Destin and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland. Although Destin and Portland are both popular with visitors, Portland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portland is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, hiking, and small town charm, while Destin is known for its food, resorts, and beaches. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also home to Washington Park.

How is Destin different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Portland is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Destin is a beach town with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Destin. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Portland is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

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 Portland Better for Music?

Portland is very good for live music. However, Destin is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Destin is not a live music destination.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Resorts?

Destin is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Destin, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Beaches?

Destin is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Destin attract visitors from all over. 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Portland is a popular spot for hiking. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Portland?

Both Destin and Portland are good 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 Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Destin or Portland More Beautiful?

Destin and Portland both are comparable with their good scenery and beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Families?

Destin is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Destin is a very family-friendly destination. 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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Couples?

Both Destin and Portland are good 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Portland. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is very good for students. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its student-friendly activities.

Portland is a good city to visit for students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Destin is a decent spot for students. It is more a family-friendly destination than a spring break destination. If you're looking for a place to cut loose and blow off some steam, then there are better options in Florida.

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

Portland is very good for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Portland has a few public transit options. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Destin?

How long in Destin or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Portland. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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

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

One day in Destin or Portland?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Portland?

Destin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Portland 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 Portland?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Portland?

Destin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Destin has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting the eclectic destination of Portland. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Portland, we can see that Destin 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 Destin Expensive? and Is Portland Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Destin or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Destin during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Destin is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Portland. Many visitors come to Destin in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Destin is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Portland. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Destin or Portland in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Destin as well as Portland. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. In January, Destin is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite rainy in Portland. Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

Destin is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In April, Destin usually receives more rain than Portland. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Destin