A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Augustine vs. Duck for Beaches, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Augustine or Duck?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Augustine or Duck, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is a historic, notable, and colonial city. Saint Augustine is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums. See Saint Augustine travel costs.

Duck

Duck is a laid-back, traditional, and compact beach town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Duck is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food. See Duck travel costs.

Saint Augustine and Duck: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Saint Augustine or Duck?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Augustine. Although Saint Augustine and Duck are both popular with visitors, Saint Augustine has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Augustine is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Duck is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Saint Augustine is popular for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States. It is also home to the Colonial Quarter. Duck is popular for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm.

How is Saint Augustine different from Duck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Duck and Saint Augustine. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Augustine or Duck?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

Saint Augustine offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It's history is brought to life with many monuments and museums. The Lightner Museum, the Old Jail Museum, the Lincolnville Museum, and Castillo De San Marcos are among the city's most notable sights. Also worth a visit is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Saint Augustine or Duck? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Augustine makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is influenced by the long history of the city. You'll find flavors that are influenced by Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. There are several popular dishes around town such as fried shrimp, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits.

Duck has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Nightlife?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Saint Augustine is a popular place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Augustine. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Resorts?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Duck is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.

Duck has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Beaches?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Duck is very popular for its beaches. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches in Duck are among the best in the world. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

The beaches at Saint Augustine attract visitors from all over. Head to the beach to relax and swim. There are miles of sandy beach nearby, with some of the most popular being Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its golf courses, Vilano Beach, with its charming atmosphere, and the scenic Anastasia State Park.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Saint Augustine is renowned for its historic old town. However, Duck does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Saint Augustine is one of the most recognized in the world. As the longest running, continuously occupied city in the United States, the Historic Downtown is at the heart of the city. It's filled with quaint restaurants, historic hotels, and charming streets. You can take carriage rides or wander through the historic sites. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s and offer a glimpse into Florida's past.

Duck does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Hiking?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Duck is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Augustine is not a hiking destination.

Duck has hiking trails worth exploring. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Saint Augustine is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Augustine or Duck?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Shopping is a popular activity in both Duck and Saint Augustine.

Saint Augustine is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The Historic Downtown has unique art galleries and boutiques. St. George Street is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir and Aviles Street is the oldest street in the United States. It's also filled with artisan boutiques. Plaza de la Constitución is known for its long running public market and it often has live entertainment.

Duck is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck More Beautiful?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Duck is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

Duck is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful sandy beaches and family-friendly parks offer a beautiful and relaxed beach vacation.

Saint Augustine is a beautiful place to visit, too. Colonial architecture and a charming atmosphere give this historic town a unique beauty.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Families?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Saint Augustine and Duck are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Saint Augustine is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the Alligator Farm but there's also a surprisingly fascinating archaeological park - The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The Colonial Quarter is fun for all ages as well, as is a visit to Fort Castillo De San Marcos. If you have some time, head outside of town to the Marineland Dolphin Adventure, which is well worth the trip.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Duck is very family-friendly. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.


Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Couples?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Saint Augustine and Duck are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Saint Augustine frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The Ancient City has a charm that is unique in Florida. There is beautiful architecture and a historical atmosphere that is romantic and genuine. You can enjoy a carriage ride and then sample some local cuisine before heading to the beach.

Duck is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Augustine
Duck

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Saint Augustine and Duck.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Augustine. The Old Town Trolley travels through the historic center. There's also a bus service through the region, but you really need a private vehicle to explore everything.

Public transit is mostly limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

Is Saint Augustine or Duck a more walkable city?

Saint Augustine
Duck

Duck is very popular for its walkability. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Duck on foot is easy. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

Saint Augustine is a very walkable city. It's one of the more walkable cities in the area. Downtown, Uptown, and even near the beach have accessible areas with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones.


For even more information, also check out Is Saint Augustine Worth Visiting? and Is Duck Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Duck or Saint Augustine?

How long in Saint Augustine or Duck?

Both Saint Augustine and Duck have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Duck than in Saint Augustine. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Augustine, and 5-7 days is enough time in Duck.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Augustine than Duck 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 Saint Augustine.


  • How many days in Saint Augustine or Duck? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Augustine 3-4 
    Duck 5-7

One day in Saint Augustine or Duck?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Saint Augustine. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Duck is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Saint Augustine or Duck?

Saint Augustine is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Duck might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Saint Augustine or Duck?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Saint Augustine. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Duck is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This beach town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.


A week in Saint Augustine or Duck?

The colonial city of Saint Augustine offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Duck or Saint Augustine?

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

  • Saint Augustine Prices
    USA Prices
    Duck Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Augustine $195
    Duck $221

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Augustine is $195, while the average daily cost in Duck is $221. 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 Saint Augustine and Duck in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Augustine $86
    Duck $107
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Augustine $172
    Duck $214
Compare Hotels in Saint Augustine and Duck

Looking for a hotel in Saint Augustine or Duck? 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 Saint Augustine


Hotels in Duck


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: Saint Augustine Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Augustine $39
    Duck $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Augustine or Duck?

Prices for flights to both Duck and Saint Augustine 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
    Saint Augustine $85
    Duck $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Augustine

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Saint Augustine.

  • Cooking Class/Dinner W/ Celebrity French Chef OR Private Chef Ser: $115
  • St. Augustine Historical FOOD Tour on Electric Cart with Pick Up : $129
  • The Ghoulish Gourmet Haunted Food Tour: $129
  • Feast of Saint Augustine Historical Walking Food Tour: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Augustine $18
    Duck $13

Tours and Activities in Saint Augustine

Here are a few actual costs in Saint Augustine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • St Augustine Haunted History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Self-Guided Haunted Ghost Walking Audio Tour in St. Augustine: $9.75
  • Historic St Augustine Audio Self Guided App GPS Tour: $9.75
  • Bastions of St. Augustine Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • St. Augustine City Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of St Augustine's Twisted History: $15
  • Haunting Hour Walking Ghost Tour: $18
  • Old Jail Museum Tour in St. Augustine: $18
  • Historic Museum Tour Ticket: $19
  • America‘s Oldest City: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of St Augustine: $20
  • St. Augustine's Original Ghostly Experience Walking Tour: $20
  • St. Augustine Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Augustine $25
    Duck $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint Augustine

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Saint Augustine:

  • St. Augustine's Booze & Boos Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • St. Augustine Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Dark History Pub Crawl from Saint Augustine: $40
  • Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine : $49
  • Spirits with the Spirits haunted pub crawl - drinks included: $59
  • Toast of St. Augustine Walking Pub Crawl - drinks included: $63
  • Mobile Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Tour St. Augustine: $129


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Augustine and Duck, we can see that Duck 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 Saint Augustine Expensive? and Is Duck Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Augustine or Duck?

Saint Augustine has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Saint Augustine and Duck, 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.


When is the best time to visit Saint Augustine or Duck?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Duck in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Augustine and Duck. Many visitors come to Saint Augustine in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Duck for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Saint Augustine is around the same temperature as Duck in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Augustine averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Duck fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Duck this time of the year. In Saint Augustine, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Augustine usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Duck during summer. Saint Augustine gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

Duck receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Augustine gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Augustine usually receives around the same amount of rain as Duck. Saint Augustine gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Augustine 82°F (28°C) 
    Duck 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Duck in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Augustine as well as Duck. Most visitors come to Saint Augustine for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Duck because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Augustine is a little warmer than Duck. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Augustine in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Duck averages at about 62°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Duck. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Augustine this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Augustine often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Duck. Saint Augustine gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 211 hours of full sun.

Saint Augustine usually gets less rain in October than Duck. Saint Augustine gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Augustine is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Augustine 70°F (21°C) 
    Duck 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Duck in the Winter?

Both Duck and Saint Augustine are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Duck this time of year.

It's quite cold in Duck in the winter. In January, Saint Augustine is generally much warmer than Duck. Daily temperatures in Saint Augustine average around 53°F (12°C), and Duck fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Saint Augustine usually receives more sunshine than Duck during winter. Saint Augustine gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Duck. In January, Saint Augustine usually receives less rain than Duck. Saint Augustine gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Augustine 53°F (12°C) 
    Duck 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Saint Augustine or Duck in the Spring?

Both Duck and Saint Augustine during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Augustine this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Duck for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Augustine is a little warmer than Duck in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Augustine averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Duck fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Duck, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Augustine. In the spring, Saint Augustine often gets more sunshine than Duck. Saint Augustine gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 253 hours of full sun.

Saint Augustine usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Duck. Saint Augustine gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Augustine.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Augustine 68°F (20°C) 
    Duck 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Duck and Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine Duck
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)