A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Joshua Tree National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nags Head

It's also popular because of the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Nags Head and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Joshua Tree National Park than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Joshua Tree National Park is better known for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is more popular for its food and nightlife. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is famous for Cholla Cactus Garden. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Joshua Tree National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Joshua Tree National Park and Nags Head. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Joshua Tree National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Nags Head is a with good options for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Nags Head is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Nags Head is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Nags Head has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

People visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is mediocre for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Joshua Tree National Park can be found for those interested. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park More Beautiful?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Families?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very kid-friendly . With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.


Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Joshua Tree National Park. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Neither Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.


Is Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Joshua Tree National Park

Nags Head is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Nags Head is generally not a very walkable . This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable . You need a car to truly explore the park.

Should I spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nags Head due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

Families should spend more time in Nags Head than Joshua Tree National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Nags Head, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park than Nags Head. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Joshua Tree National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park than Nags Head 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 Joshua Tree National Park.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4

One day in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back of Nags Head. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find around the national park of Joshua Tree National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nags Head. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find around the adventurous destination of Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this makes for a great vacation. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the fascinating national park of Joshua Tree National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Nags Head is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Joshua Tree National Park or Nags Head?

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

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Joshua Tree National Park $177

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Joshua Tree National Park is $177. 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 Nags Head and Joshua Tree National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park? 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 Nags Head


Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Joshua Tree National Park $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Joshua Tree National Park?

Prices for flights to both Joshua Tree National Park and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $71
    Joshua Tree National Park $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Joshua Tree National Park $27

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

For Joshua Tree National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949
  • Rappelling Experience: $255

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


When comparing the travel costs between Nags Head and Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Nags Head 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 Nags Head Expensive? and Is Joshua Tree National Park Expensive?.