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

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Vernon?

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 Vernon 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. Other popular activities here include museums, beaches, and hiking. See Jekyll Island travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vernon travel costs.

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


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Vernon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jekyll Island. Although Jekyll Island and Vernon are popular destinations, Jekyll Island has more sights and attractions for tourists. Jekyll Island is very popular for its resorts and beaches, while Vernon attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. It is also well known for Driftwood Beach. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Jekyll Island different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jekyll Island
Vernon

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

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

Jekyll Island
Vernon

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

Vernon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

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 Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Vernon 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 Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

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

Is Jekyll Island or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Jekyll Island is a moderate island for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Jekyll Island. 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Both Jekyll Island and Vernon are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Vernon?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

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

Vernon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

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 Vernon Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Jekyll Island is known to be 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly island. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Jekyll Island or Vernon Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Both Jekyll Island and Vernon 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

Jekyll Island
Vernon

Vernon 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Vernon

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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 Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Vernon?

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

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

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


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

One day in Jekyll Island or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Jekyll Island. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Vernon. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Vernon?

Jekyll Island is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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


Five days in Jekyll Island or Vernon?

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. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Vernon. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Vernon?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and food around the town of Vernon. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Jekyll Island $189
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $189, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Vernon $13


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

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 Vernon Expensive?.



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

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 Vernon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Vernon. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In the autumn, Jekyll Island is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jekyll Island in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Vernon. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Vernon in the Winter?

Both Vernon and Jekyll Island during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vernon. In January, Jekyll Island is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 53°F (12°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Vernon. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches.

Jekyll Island is much warmer than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Vernon. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)