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

Should you visit Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Olympic 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

And you can't forget about the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Nags Head and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Olympic National Park. Although Nags Head and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Olympic National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Olympic National Park is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head attracts visitors for its food and nightlife. Olympic National Park is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. It is also well known for the Hoh Rain Forest. Nags Head is famous for

How is Nags Head different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic 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 Olympic National Park?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Olympic National Park is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Nags Head is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. 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.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Nags Head is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

Nags Head offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Olympic National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

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

People visit Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is adequate for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Olympic National Park is a good destination for shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is a very kid-friendly . Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an amazing 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 Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

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

Is Nags Head or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Olympic National Park

Nags Head is a moderate for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

Nags Head is generally not 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.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable . The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

How long in Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

In either Nags Head or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than Olympic National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Olympic 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 Olympic National Park.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

In Nags Head, you'll find nightlife and food. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums around the park of Olympic National Park. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums around the vast destination of Olympic 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 park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

Nags Head is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this . Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums around the vast park of Olympic National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

A week in Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

In Nags Head, you'll find food and nightlife. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer.

Olympic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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, Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Olympic National Park $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Olympic National Park is $150. 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 Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Olympic 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 Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $68

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

Prices for flights to both Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

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

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Olympic National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Olympic National Park $5.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


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

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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Nags Head or Olympic National Park?

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 Nags Head or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

Both Olympic National Park and Nags Head during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Olympic National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Nags Head is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nags Head in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

In Olympic National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the summer, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 210 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets more rain in July than Olympic National Park. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Olympic National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Olympic National Park. Furthermore, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nags Head is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 62°F (16°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 113 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Nags Head usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Olympic National Park 51°F (10°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Olympic National Park. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Olympic National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nags Head. Nags Head is around the same temperature as Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 56 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nags Head usually gets less rain in January than Olympic National Park. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Olympic National Park 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

Both Olympic National Park and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Nags Head is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nags Head in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 148 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. In April, Nags Head usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Olympic National Park 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Nags Head

Nags Head Olympic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 41°F (5°C) 13.7 inches (349 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 43°F (6°C) 12.2 inches (311 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 44°F (7°C) 11.6 inches (294 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 47°F (8°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 52°F (11°C) 5.6 inches (142 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 58°F (14°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 51°F (10°C) 10.4 inches (263 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 45°F (7°C) 14 inches (355 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 41°F (5°C) 15 inches (380 mm)