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

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix 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.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a laid back, sprawling, and desert city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Phoenix travel costs.

Jekyll Island and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jekyll Island. Although Jekyll Island and Phoenix are popular destinations, Jekyll Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jekyll Island is very popular for its resorts, beaches, and hiking, while Phoenix attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Jekyll Island is more touristy than Phoenix and is known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. It is also well known for Driftwood Beach. Phoenix is famous for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Jekyll Island different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

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

Phoenix is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

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 Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Phoenix Better for Resorts?

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

Phoenix is not a resort destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Phoenix Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Jekyll Island attract visitors from all over. 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.

Phoenix is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island is a great island for hiking. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Phoenix offers some nice hiking trails. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Phoenix?

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

Phoenix has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

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 Phoenix Better for Families?

Jekyll Island is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Jekyll Island or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Both Jekyll Island and Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a nice destination for couples. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

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

Phoenix 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 Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

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 Phoenix a more walkable city?

Phoenix is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Phoenix is generally not a very walkable city. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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 Phoenix Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Phoenix?

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

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

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

One day in Jekyll Island or Phoenix?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the desert destination of Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

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 nightlife and food when visiting the sprawling destination of Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

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 food and shopping around the city of Phoenix. 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.

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

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 Phoenix Expensive?.

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

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 Phoenix in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Phoenix. The summer months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

The heat can be very extreme in Phoenix. Jekyll Island is cooler than Phoenix in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Phoenix fluctuates around 98°F (36°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phoenix this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during summer. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 380 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 Phoenix. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Phoenix. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is cooler than Phoenix. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Phoenix averages at about 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Phoenix. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the autumn, Jekyll Island often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 305 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in October than Phoenix. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Phoenix in the Winter?

Both Phoenix and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Phoenix in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Jekyll Island is generally cooler than Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Phoenix. Jekyll Island usually receives less sunshine than Phoenix during winter. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Phoenix receives 254 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Jekyll Island during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the spring for the beaches.

Jekyll Island is cooler than Phoenix in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Phoenix fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

In Phoenix, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. In the spring, Jekyll Island often gets less sunshine than Phoenix. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Phoenix receives 355 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in April than Phoenix. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Phoenix and Jekyll Island