A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Yosemite National Park for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Destin or Yosemite National Park?

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 Yosemite National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches. See Destin travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking, popular, and world-famous national park. You'll find world class beauty in Yosemite National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Destin and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan


Is there more to do in Destin or Yosemite National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yosemite National Park is better known for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Destin is more popular for its food, beaches, and shopping. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Destin and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Also, Yosemite National Park is famous for El Capitan. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Destin different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Destin or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Destin is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Destin area. 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.


Is Destin or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a moderate national park for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Yosemite National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Destin and Yosemite National Park.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Destin. 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.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Is Destin or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Destin is a well-known place for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Destin is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Destin or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Yosemite National Park?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Destin is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Destin to go 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Destin or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yosemite National Park as well. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

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.


Is Destin or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Yosemite National Park.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yosemite National Park is very family-friendly. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Destin or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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.

Is Destin or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is terrific for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Yosemite National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Destin
Yosemite National Park

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

Yosemite National Park has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

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 Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Destin
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a moderate national park for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Yosemite National Park is generally not very walkable. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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 Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Destin?

How long in Destin or Yosemite National Park?

Both Destin and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Yosemite National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Yosemite National Park than Destin. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park.


  • How many days in Destin or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Destin 5-7 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Destin or Yosemite National Park?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. 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 when visiting the destination of Yosemite National Park. 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 Yosemite National Park?

The peaceful destination of Destin offers food and shopping. This beach town offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, 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.

Five days in Destin or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yosemite National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Yosemite National Park?

Destin is a fun place to experience. The destination of Destin offers food and shopping. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Yosemite National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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, Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Destin $229
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Destin is $229, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Destin $111
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Destin $222
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Destin and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Destin or Yosemite National Park? 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 Yosemite National Park


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 Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Destin $50
    Yosemite National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Destin or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

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

  • 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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Destin $17
    Yosemite National Park $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:

  • Party Cruise aboard the Soundside Cruiser: $19
  • Santa Cruise on the Sound: $25
  • Milton Splash and Dash Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Destin Dolphin Cruise: $30
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Sandestin Sunset Eco-Dolphin Cruise Aboard Sol y Luna: $35
  • Hydro Rocket Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour from Destin: $35
  • Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $37
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $38
  • The Maximum Magic Show Ticket: $39
  • Destin Family Friendly Dolphin Watching Adventure: $40

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Destin $49
    Yosemite National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Destin and Yosemite National Park, we can see that Destin is more expensive. And not only is Yosemite National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yosemite National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park.

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