A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Virginia Beach vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Virginia Beach or Whistler?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Virginia Beach or Whistler, 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.

Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a relaxing, bustling, and fun-filled coastal city. Virginia Beach is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife and beaches. See Virginia Beach travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Whistler travel costs.

Virginia Beach and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Whistler. Although Virginia Beach and Whistler are popular destinations, Whistler has more sights and attractions for tourists. Whistler is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Virginia Beach attracts visitors for its beaches. Whistler is more touristy than Virginia Beach and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Cloudraker Skybridge. Virginia Beach is famous for its fun boardwalk, many seafood restaurants, and classic beach town vibe.

How is Virginia Beach different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is terrific for skiing. However, Virginia Beach is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Whistler is among the best in the world. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Virginia Beach is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Whistler is adequate for its historical sights. However, Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Virginia Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Virginia Beach or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Whistler is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Virginia Beach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Seafood is plentiful around town and there are all-you-can-eat buffets as well as high end, waterfront seafood restaurants. Make sure you try the She Crab Soup, soft shell crabs, and oysters.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Whistler for the nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Virginia Beach. While it's a family-friendly beach, there's still a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs in the area. Popular places to hang out at night include Omega Bar, Peabody's Nightclub, and Sky Bar.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Whistler is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Virginia Beach has a few great resort options. Some of the best resorts in the area include the Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club, the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and The Founders Inn and Spa.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

Virginia Beach has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are long and sandy, but they can get crowded during the summer months. The waves are just the right size for playing in the surf and the water temperature is usually warm enough to swim well into the fall months.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is terrific for hiking. However, Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Whistler draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Virginia Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Whistler is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Virginia Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Virginia Beach offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As a developed beach town, the city has its share of hotels along the beach, but it is still a beautiful setting to explore.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Virginia Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This is a popular family-friendly beach with a nice boardwalk, a fun waterpark, aquarium, and nice beaches. It attracts families in the area for its long beaches and fun atmosphere. Most restaurants have kid's menus and there are ice cream shops and minigolf around.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is great for its romantic activities. Also, Virginia Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for couples.

Whistler is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy a nice escape to the beaches and boardwalk. There are many great seafood restaurants, some with waterfront settings. There's also a variety of activities ranging from many golf to dance clubs.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Virginia Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Students?

Virginia Beach is a nice place to visit for students. However, Whistler is not popular with students.

Virginia Beach is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not as popular as more southern beach towns, but you'll still find students heading here for the spring break holidays.

Whistler is not popular with students.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Whistler is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Virginia Beach. There is very limited public transit in the area so you'll need to have a car to get around.

Is Virginia Beach or Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is great for its high level of walkability. However, Virginia Beach is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

Whistler is a very walkable village. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

Virginia Beach is generally not very walkable. Most people prefer to have a car but do note that parking can be a nightmare, particularly during the summer season.

For even more information, also check out Is Virginia Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Virginia Beach?

How long in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

In either Virginia Beach or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Virginia Beach than Whistler because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Virginia Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler than Virginia Beach 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 Whistler.

One day in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

The coastal city of Virginia Beach offers nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Whistler, you'll find shopping and skiing. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Virginia Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Whistler is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Virginia Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Virginia Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Whistler. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Virginia Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Virginia Beach has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the village of Whistler. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Virginia Beach and Whistler, we can see that Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach Expensive? and Is Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Virginia Beach or Whistler?

Virginia Beach has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Virginia Beach and Whistler, 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 Virginia Beach or Whistler?

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 Virginia Beach or Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Virginia Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Virginia Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In July, Virginia Beach is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 79°F (26°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Whistler, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Virginia Beach. In the summer, Virginia Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Whistler. Virginia Beach gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Virginia Beach gets 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Virginia Beach and Whistler. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Virginia Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Virginia Beach is much warmer than Whistler in the autumn. The daily temperature in Virginia Beach averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Virginia Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Virginia Beach gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Whistler. Virginia Beach gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Virginia Beach as well as Whistler. Many travelers come to Virginia Beach for the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Whistler in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Whistler can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Virginia Beach. In the winter, Virginia Beach is around the same temperature as Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Virginia Beach in January average around 39°F (4°C), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Virginia Beach often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Virginia Beach gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Virginia Beach usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Virginia Beach gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Virginia Beach or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Virginia Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Virginia Beach in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Virginia Beach is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Virginia Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Virginia Beach gets 253 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In April, Virginia Beach usually receives less rain than Whistler. Virginia Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Virginia Beach