A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Augustine vs. Yosemite National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park, 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 colonial, historic, and notable city. Saint Augustine offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Saint Augustine travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a world-famous, stunning, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Yosemite National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Saint Augustine and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Augustine than Yosemite National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Augustine is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Yosemite National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Saint Augustine and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Saint Augustine is well known for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States. Also, Saint Augustine is famous for the Colonial Quarter.

How is Saint Augustine different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Dining out in Saint Augustine is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

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 Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great destination for its resorts. However, Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Saint Augustine is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Saint Augustine is revered around 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Saint Augustine is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yosemite National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Saint Augustine is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Saint Augustine. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Yosemite National Park is one of the main draws. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine and Yosemite National Park 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, Yosemite National Park is very family-friendly. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.


Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine and Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Saint Augustine is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yosemite National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Saint Augustine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as a couple of affordable inns.

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

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Saint Augustine is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is mostly 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.


Is Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Augustine
Yosemite National Park

Saint Augustine is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Saint Augustine is a very walkable destination. 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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable city. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Saint Augustine?

How long in Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Augustine than Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Augustine 3-4 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park?

The city of Saint Augustine offers museums and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The world-famous destination of Yosemite National Park offers . People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that hiking 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 Yosemite National Park?

The historic destination of Saint Augustine offers nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a great beach destination, too. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The national park of Yosemite National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Augustine. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park 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 Yosemite National Park?

Saint Augustine is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Saint Augustine. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

The stunning national park of Yosemite National Park offers . You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Augustine $195
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Augustine is $195, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Augustine $86
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Augustine $172
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Saint Augustine and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Augustine or Yosemite 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 Saint Augustine


Hotels in Yosemite 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: Saint Augustine Hotel Prices and Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Augustine $39
    Yosemite National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Augustine or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park $69

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
    Yosemite National Park $19

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
  • Historic St Augustine Audio Self Guided App GPS Tour: $9.75
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of St Augustine's Twisted History: $15
  • St. Augustine City Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $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
  • Walking Guided History Tour of Old St. Augustine: $25
  • Castillo after Dark 1 Hour Guided Exterior Tour: $25
  • Guardian Angels of St. Augustine Walking Tour: $27
  • Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine: $29

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Augustine $25
    Yosemite National Park $11

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: $36
  • Wine Tasting Cruise in St. Augustine : $49
  • Toast of St. Augustine Walking Pub Crawl - drinks included: $63
  • Mobile Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Tour St. Augustine: $129


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

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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.