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

Should you visit Nags Head or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Redwood 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

Other popular activities here include nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Nags Head and Redwood 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 beach
  • 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 Redwood National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Redwood National Park than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Redwood National Park is better known for its museums and attractions, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is more popular for its food and nightlife. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Also, Redwood National Park is famous for Stout Grove. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Nags Head is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Nags Head area. 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 Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Nags Head or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Nags Head is well known for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Nags Head is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Nags Head or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.


Is Nags Head or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

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

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

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

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

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

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Redwood National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Nags Head or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is a very kid-friendly . There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Nags Head or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Redwood 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 Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do 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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Neither Nags Head or Redwood 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

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

Nags Head
Redwood National Park

Nags Head is a with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable . The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

How long in Nags Head or Redwood National Park?

In either Nags Head or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than Redwood 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 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Nags Head or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Nags Head or Redwood 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 around the park of Redwood 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 Redwood 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 around the monumental destination of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Redwood 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 around the impressive park of Redwood National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Redwood 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.

Redwood 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, Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $135. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Redwood 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 Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $53

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

Prices for flights to both Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $56

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Redwood National Park $33

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Redwood National Park $11

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 Redwood National Park, we can see that Nags Head is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood 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 Redwood 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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Nags Head or Redwood 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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Redwood National Park. Most visitors come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nags Head is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 78°F (26°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In the summer, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the summer. Nags Head usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

Nags Head is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

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

Both Redwood National Park and Nags Head during the winter are popular places to visit. The cuisine are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nags Head in the winter. In the winter, Nags Head is much colder than Redwood National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nags Head in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

In the winter, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. Nags Head usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Redwood National Park. Also, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 59°F (15°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park this time of the year. In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during spring. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Nags Head

Nags Head Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)