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

Should you visit Destin or Sacramento?

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

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. Destin is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food. See Destin travel costs.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sacramento travel costs.

Destin and Sacramento: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Destin or Sacramento?

Both Sacramento and Destin have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Destin is very popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Sacramento attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Destin is more touristy than Sacramento and is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Sacramento is famous for its history and state capital.

How is Destin different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Destin
Sacramento

Sacramento is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Sacramento specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Destin
Sacramento

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

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.

Sacramento has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Is Destin or Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

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 Sacramento Better for Resorts?

Destin
Sacramento

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

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Sacramento is not a resort destination.


Is Destin or Sacramento Better for Beaches?

Destin
Sacramento

Destin is a very popular place for the beach. However, Sacramento is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. 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.

Sacramento is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Sacramento?

Destin
Sacramento

Both Destin and Sacramento are nice 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 Sacramento. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.

Is Destin or Sacramento More Beautiful?

Destin
Sacramento

Destin is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sacramento is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Sacramento is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Destin or Sacramento Better for Families?

Destin
Sacramento

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. 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 Sacramento. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

Is Destin or Sacramento Better for Couples?

Destin
Sacramento

Destin is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.

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

Destin
Sacramento

Sacramento 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 Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.

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 Sacramento a more walkable city?

Destin
Sacramento

Sacramento is a moderate city for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

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 Sacramento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sacramento or Destin?

How long in Destin or Sacramento?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Destin or Sacramento to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Destin than Sacramento 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 Sacramento.

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

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


  • How many days in Destin or Sacramento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Sacramento 1-2

One day in Destin or Sacramento?

With shopping and food around the beautiful beach town of Destin, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the 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 nightlife when visiting the destination of Sacramento. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Sacramento?

With food and shopping around the destination of Destin, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Sacramento 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 Sacramento?

Destin, a popular beach town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Destin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Sacramento. 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 Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.


Which place is cheaper, Sacramento or Destin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Destin Prices
    USA Prices
    Sacramento Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Destin $229
    Sacramento $320

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $229, while the average daily cost in Sacramento is $320. 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 Destin and Sacramento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Sacramento $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Sacramento $222
Compare Hotels in Destin and Sacramento

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Sacramento? 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 Destin


Hotels in Sacramento


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: Destin Hotel Prices and Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Sacramento $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

Also for Sacramento, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $74
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento Arrival Private Transfer: $93
  • Sacramento City to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento hotel/address- RoundTrip Private Transfer: $186
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $294
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $294

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Sacramento?

Prices for flights to both Sacramento and Destin 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
    Destin $89
    Sacramento $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Destin.

  • Halloween Dinner Cruise & Costume Contest: $115
  • Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views: $125
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $128

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Chinese Wonton Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Thai Cooking Class in Southeastern Sacramento (4-Course Menu): $108
  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Discover Midtown - Delicious Walking Food Tour: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Sacramento $19
Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

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

  • Dolphin & Sunset Cruises in Destin FL aboard the Hydrojet : $35
  • Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $37
  • 1 Hour and 30 Minutes Island Sightseeing Cruise on the Sound: $60
  • 10-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Adventure: $224
  • 2-Stop Snorkeling and Dolphin Cruise from Destin: $50
  • 3 Hour Crab Island Sandbar Cruise : $89
  • 3 Hour Crab Island and Harbor Tour from Destin Non-Private: $70
  • 3 hour Crab Island Adventure with Cruise Destin Bay: $75
  • 5-Hour Deep Sea Family Fishing Adventure: $112
  • 8-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Adventure: $151
  • All Inclusive Cypress Springs Eco Adventure with GoPro: $125
  • Back Porch on the water Fall/Winter Harbor Sightseeing Cruise: $69

Tours and Activities in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $15
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $15
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $15
  • Mini Golf Experience 9 Hole Course in Sacramento: $18
  • Nevada City Haunted History Tour: $20
  • Shadows, Scandals & Secrets of Sacramento Ghost Tours: $24
  • Folsom Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Sacramento Capitol Park Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Sacramento $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Apple Hill Wine Tasting Tours And Placerville wine tasting tours: $169
  • Old Vine Express Train Ride with Wine Tasting: $174


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

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


Which is Bigger, Destin or Sacramento?

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

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 Sacramento in the Summer?

Both Sacramento and Destin during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sacramento for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Destin is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Destin in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Sacramento averages at about 76°F (24°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Sacramento. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Destin 82°F (28°C) 
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Destin or Sacramento in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Sacramento. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sacramento in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Destin is generally a little warmer than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 69°F (21°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Destin 69°F (21°C) 
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Destin or Sacramento in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Destin as well as Sacramento. Many visitors come to Destin in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Sacramento for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Destin is a little warmer than Sacramento in the winter. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Sacramento fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin usually gets more rain in January than Sacramento. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Destin 50°F (10°C) 
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Destin or Sacramento in the Spring?

Both Sacramento and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Destin is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Destin in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Sacramento averages at about 58°F (15°C).

In April, Destin usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Destin 68°F (20°C) 
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Destin

Destin Sacramento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
May 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)