A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Sedona for Couples, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nags Head or Sedona?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Sedona? 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

Visitors also love the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a striking, desert, and dramatic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Sedona because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sedona travel costs.

Nags Head and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Nags Head or Sedona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sedona. Although Nags Head and Sedona are popular destinations, Sedona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sedona is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head attracts visitors for its nightlife. Sedona is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also well known for Red Rock Crossing Park. Nags Head is famous for

How is Nags Head different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Nags Head
Sedona

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

Sedona is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

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.

Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Sedona

Nags Head is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Nags Head for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Sedona is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Nags Head does not have a historic old town.

Sedona is a good destination for visiting its old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Nags Head does not have a historic old town.

Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is great for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sedona for the hiking trails. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Sedona?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Sedona. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Nags Head or Sedona More Beautiful?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sedona because of it's amazing beauty. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for Families?

Nags Head
Sedona

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

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.

Sedona is a very kid-friendly . There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Sedona

For backpackers, both Nags Head and Sedona are nice places to visit.

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

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Nags Head or Sedona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

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 Sedona a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Sedona

Sedona is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Sedona is somewhat walkable. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

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.


Should I spend more time in Sedona or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Sedona?

In either Nags Head or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than Sedona 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 Sedona.

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

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

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


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

One day in Nags Head or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nags Head. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Even though Sedona is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Sedona?

Nags Head is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nags Head. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sedona is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.


A week in Nags Head or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back destination of Nags Head. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Sedona 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, Sedona 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
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 and Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Sedona $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $83

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Sedona $19

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • 2 Hours Private Spiritual Healing Tour in the Nature of Sedona: $200
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Arizona Ghost Adventure: $150
  • Arizona Winery All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch & Tastings: $199
  • Best E-Bike Tour of Sedona with Private Local Guide: $140
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $85
  • Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $186
  • Explore Sedona's Vortexes: 2.5 Hour Jeep Tour of Mysticism: $136
  • Five Star AZ Wine Crawler Tour 4- 12 PPL : $139
  • From Flagstaff or Antelope Canyon Full-Day Tour: $306

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275


When comparing the travel costs between Nags Head and Sedona, we can see that Sedona 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 Sedona Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Sedona?

Sedona has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head and Sedona, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.