A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jekyll Island vs. Moncton for Families, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Moncton?

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 Moncton 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.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

Jekyll Island and Moncton: 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 with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Moncton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jekyll Island. Although Jekyll Island and Moncton are popular destinations, Jekyll Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jekyll Island is very popular for its resorts, beaches, and hiking, while Moncton attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Jekyll Island is more touristy than Moncton and is known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. It is also well known for Driftwood Beach. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Jekyll Island different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jekyll Island
Moncton

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Moncton and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. 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.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.


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

Jekyll Island
Moncton

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

Moncton is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

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 Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Moncton is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Moncton. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Jekyll Island is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Jekyll Island is great for the beach. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Moncton Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Jekyll Island is great for hiking. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Moncton?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

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

Moncton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

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 Moncton Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Jekyll Island is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Jekyll Island or Moncton Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Both Jekyll Island and Moncton are nice 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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

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

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Moncton is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

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 Moncton a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Moncton

Moncton is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Moncton is a somewhat walkable city. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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 Moncton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Jekyll Island or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Jekyll Island than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

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

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


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

One day in Jekyll Island or Moncton?

In Jekyll Island, you'll find museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the compact destination of Moncton. 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 Moncton?

In Jekyll Island, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jekyll Island has to offer.

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

Jekyll Island is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Moncton. 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 Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jekyll Island. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Jekyll Island. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and food around the city of Moncton. 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton 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
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jekyll Island $189
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $189, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. 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 Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Moncton? 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 Moncton


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 Moncton Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Moncton?

Prices for flights to both Moncton 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
    Moncton $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Moncton $79

Tours and Activities in Moncton

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

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Moncton $4.54


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

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 Moncton Expensive?.



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

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 Moncton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Moncton. 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 Moncton for the family-friendly experiences.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Moncton in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Moncton. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Moncton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Moncton. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in October than Moncton. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Moncton in the Winter?

Both Moncton 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 Moncton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Moncton can be very cold during winter. In January, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In January, Jekyll Island usually receives less rain than Moncton. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Moncton in the Spring?

Both Moncton and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches during these months.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. Jekyll Island is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

Typical Weather for Moncton and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)