A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Redwood National Park for Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Tampa or Redwood National Park?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Tampa and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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


Is there more to do in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Tampa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tampa is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is more touristy than Tampa and is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also well known for Busch Gardens.

How is Tampa 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 Tampa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Tampa 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 Tampa area. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

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 Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Tampa is a city with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

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

Is Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Tampa is a city with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Tampa is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Tampa for it's beautiful beaches. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

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.

Is Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is not a good area for its shopping areas. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Tampa or Redwood National Park More Beautiful?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

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

Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Redwood National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.


Is Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. 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.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Tampa or Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

Neither Tampa or Redwood National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Tampa or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Tampa
Redwood National Park

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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


For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

In either Tampa or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Tampa because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Redwood National Park than Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

In Tampa, you'll find food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this monumental destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

Tampa is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. In Redwood National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Tampa or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food around the easy-going destination of Tampa. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the grand destination of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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 Tampa?

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

  • Tampa Prices
    USA Prices
    Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tampa $218
    Redwood National Park $135

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $218, 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 Tampa and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Redwood National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

Also for Tampa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Luxury SUV: $94
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Lakeland / Winter Haven to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Tampa Airport (TPA): $36
  • Private One-way Transfer from Tampa Airport To Tampa: $100
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg Accommodation: $144
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $144
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Land O' Lakes Florida: $100
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa hotels: $59
  • Private transfer Tampa airport To Ruskin, FL: $112
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA): $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Tampa 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
    Tampa $92
    Redwood National Park $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Ybor City Food Tour with 5 Local Delicacies Tastings: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Tampa

For Tampa, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Historic Ybor City Self Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Ybor City Immigrant influence Smart Phone guided App (GPS) walking tour: $9.75
  • Tampa's Highlights Self Guided Audio Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Tampa by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Tampa Riverwalk Private Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Tampa Bay Lightning Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $23
  • Tides of Tethered Terror: Tampa Ghost Tours: $24
  • Selfie WRLD Admission Ticket: $25
  • ZooTampa at Lowry Park Ticket with After Hours Option: $30
  • Tampa Celebrity Homes Boat Tour: $31
  • Tampa History Cruise: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tampa $26
    Redwood National Park $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Naples Bar Crawl Experience: $15
  • Tampa Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Historic Ybor: $40
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on New Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Downtown 3-Hour Food and Wine Tour: $145
  • Tampa's Top Dive Bar Tour Experience by Golf Cart: $275


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tampa and Redwood National Park, we can see that Tampa 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 Tampa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tampa 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 Tampa Expensive? and Is Redwood National Park Expensive?.



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

Both Redwood National Park and Tampa during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the summer, Tampa often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually gets more rain in July than Redwood National Park. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Redwood National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Tampa because of the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Redwood National Park this time of year.

In the autumn, Tampa is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during autumn. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tampa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Redwood National Park. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Tampa 75°F (24°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Redwood National Park. The cuisine are the main draw to Tampa this time of year.

In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the winter, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Redwood National Park. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. Tampa usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

Both Redwood National Park and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tampa is much warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Redwood National Park during spring. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tampa usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Tampa 71°F (22°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Tampa

Tampa Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)