A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Shenandoah National Park vs. San Diego for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Shenandoah National Park and San Diego can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. The beauty of Shenandoah National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See San Diego travel costs.

Shenandoah National Park and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Shenandoah National Park and San Diego are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Shenandoah National Park is known for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Shenandoah National Park and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Shenandoah National Park is popular for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

How is Shenandoah National Park different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego and Shenandoah National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Skiing?

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for skiing. However, San Diego is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Shenandoah National Park is a great destination to visit. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

San Diego is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

San Diego is great for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Diego has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is great for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for its music scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Shenandoah National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Shenandoah National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Shenandoah National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

San Diego has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego More Beautiful?

Shenandoah National Park is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Shenandoah National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is renowned for couples. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

San Diego is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Shenandoah National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Shenandoah National Park is not popular with students.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Diego is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Shenandoah National Park or San Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Shenandoah National Park?

How long in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

In either Shenandoah National Park or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Shenandoah National Park. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Shenandoah 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 San Diego.

One day in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

You'll find skiing around the national park of Shenandoah 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.

With live music and food around the outdoorsy coastal city of San Diego, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

You'll find skiing around the beautiful destination of Shenandoah 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 national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of San Diego, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

You'll find skiing around the serene national park of Shenandoah National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national 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 national park has to offer.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the hip coastal city of San Diego, there's plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

Shenandoah 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.

San Diego is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Shenandoah National Park or San Diego?

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 Shenandoah National Park or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Shenandoah National Park is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 77°F (25°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In July, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than San Diego. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Shenandoah National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Shenandoah National Park is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and San Diego. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shenandoah National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Shenandoah National Park is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in January average around 32°F (-0°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than San Diego. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shenandoah National Park or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Shenandoah National Park as well as San Diego. Most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Shenandoah National Park is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 54°F (12°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Shenandoah National Park