A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Alexandria for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Alexandria can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a secluded, natural, and relaxing island. It's also popular because of the museums, beaches, and hiking. See Jekyll Island travel costs.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a charming, quaint, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Alexandria travel costs.

Jekyll Island and Alexandria: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Alexandria. Although Jekyll Island and Alexandria are popular destinations, Alexandria has more sights and attractions for tourists. Alexandria is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, and hiking. Alexandria is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Alexandria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.


Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Alexandria? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Alexandria has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alexandria. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Jekyll Island is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Jekyll Island as a resort destination, but it has a few places. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Jekyll Island is great for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for its Old Town?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Alexandria can be explored in its historical center. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Jekyll Island is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria More Beautiful?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Jekyll Island is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Alexandria attracts visitors from all around. The historic architecture and beautiful waterfront make this an iconic destination.

Jekyll Island is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Jekyll Island is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.


Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Alexandria makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Alexandria is a good city to visit for backpackers. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Alexandria has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.


Is Jekyll Island or Alexandria a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Alexandria

Alexandria is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Alexandria. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Alexandria Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alexandria or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

It's fun to spend time in either Jekyll Island or Alexandria. In our opinion, Alexandria has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Alexandria than Jekyll Island. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Jekyll Island 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 Alexandria.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Alexandria? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Alexandria 2-4

One day in Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

With museums around the natural island of Jekyll Island, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

With museums around the destination of Jekyll Island, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

Jekyll Island, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Alexandria. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Alexandria or Jekyll Island?

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

  • Jekyll Island Prices
    USA Prices
    Alexandria Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jekyll Island $189
    Alexandria $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $189, while the average daily cost in Alexandria is $0.00. 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 Jekyll Island and Alexandria in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Alexandria $38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Alexandria $76
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Alexandria

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Alexandria? 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 Jekyll Island


Hotels in Alexandria


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: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Alexandria Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Alexandria -

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

Prices for flights to both Alexandria and Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $77
    Alexandria -

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Alexandria -

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alexandria.

  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $30
  • Old Town Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $39
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127
  • Phantoms of the Potomac: Old Town Alexandria Ghost Tour: $27
  • Semi-Private Walking Tour Old Town Alexandria & Carlyle: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Alexandria -

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Alexandria Ghosts: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30


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

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



When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Alexandria?

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 Jekyll Island or Alexandria in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Alexandria. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Alexandria in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Alexandria fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alexandria during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jekyll Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Alexandria in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Alexandria. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Alexandria in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Alexandria. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Alexandria averages at about 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 197 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Alexandria. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Alexandria in the Winter?

Both Alexandria and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Alexandria can be very cold during winter. In January, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Alexandria. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Alexandria fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Alexandria during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Alexandria receives 139 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Alexandria. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Alexandria in the Spring?

Both Alexandria and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Alexandria in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Alexandria fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

In Alexandria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Alexandria. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alexandria receives 228 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Alexandria. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Alexandria receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Alexandria and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Alexandria
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)