A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Atlantic City for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

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 Atlantic City 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 natural, relaxing, and secluded island. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and museums. See Jekyll Island travel costs.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a flashy, party-oriented, and colorful city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Jekyll Island and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its museums and attractions, beaches, and hiking. Atlantic City is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Also, Atlantic City is famous for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Jekyll Island is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.


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

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Atlantic City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

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 Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Atlantic City is a world class party destination. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

In Atlantic City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.


Is Jekyll Island or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Jekyll Island is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Jekyll Island or Atlantic City Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Jekyll Island is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Atlantic City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

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 Atlantic City Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Jekyll Island is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Jekyll Island or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Both Jekyll Island and Atlantic City are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Jekyll Island is a good island for couples to visit. 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.

Atlantic City is a nice destination for couples. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Jekyll Island or Atlantic City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

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

Atlantic City is a good city to visit for backpackers. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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 Atlantic City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Atlantic City has some public transit options. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

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 Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Atlantic City is a very walkable destination. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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 Atlantic City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jekyll Island and Atlantic City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Jekyll Island than in Atlantic City. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 1-3 days is enough time in Atlantic City.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Atlantic City 1-3

One day in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the flashy destination of Atlantic City. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Atlantic City?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the flashy destination of Atlantic City. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Atlantic City?

You'll find museums around the island of Jekyll Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Atlantic City. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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, Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jekyll Island $189
    Atlantic City $190

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $189, while the average daily cost in Atlantic City is $190. 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 Atlantic City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Atlantic City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Atlantic City $146
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Atlantic City

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Atlantic City? 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 Atlantic City


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 Atlantic City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Atlantic City $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

Prices for flights to both Atlantic City 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
    Atlantic City $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Atlantic City $44

Tours and Activities in Atlantic City

Here are a few actual costs in Atlantic City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Hour Private Escape Room Experience in Ocean City: $36
  • 1-Hour Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Ocean City, MD: $95
  • 1-Hour Private Party Assateague Island Pony Cruise in Ocean City: $200
  • 1-Hour Private Party Happy Hour Booze Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $190
  • 1-Hour Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $38
  • 45-Minute Sea Rocket Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City MD: $40
  • 75 Minute Private Party Back Bay Sunset Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $200
  • Aces to Ashes: Apparitions of Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghost Tour: $31
  • Assateague Horses, Herons and Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Atlantic City Adventure Scavenger Hunt: $29
  • Downtown/Boardwalk Foodie Tour: $110
  • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL: Speed Boat & Dolphin Cruise in Ocean City, MD: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Atlantic City $39


When comparing the travel costs between Jekyll Island and Atlantic City, we can see that Atlantic City 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 Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Atlantic City Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Atlantic City?

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 Jekyll Island or Atlantic City in the Summer?

Both Atlantic City and Jekyll Island during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Atlantic City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 75°F (24°C).

In Atlantic City, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the summer, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Atlantic City. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 273 hours of full sun.

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in July than Atlantic City. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Atlantic City 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Atlantic City in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Atlantic City. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Atlantic City in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Atlantic City. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Atlantic City fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during autumn. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Atlantic City. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Atlantic City 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Atlantic City in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Atlantic City. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Atlantic City can be very cold during winter. Jekyll Island is much warmer than Atlantic City in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Atlantic City fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In the winter, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Atlantic City. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Atlantic City receives 146 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Atlantic City. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Atlantic City 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Atlantic City in the Spring?

Both Atlantic City and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Atlantic City. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Atlantic City averages at about 51°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Atlantic City. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives more sunshine than Atlantic City during spring. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Atlantic City receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Atlantic City. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Atlantic City receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Atlantic City 51°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Atlantic City and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Atlantic City
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 42°F (6°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 51°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 67°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3 inches (76 mm)