A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Big Sur for Couples, Beaches, Food, and Families

Should you visit Atlantic City or Big Sur?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Atlantic City and Big Sur. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a colorful, glitzy, and flashy city. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Atlantic City and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Atlantic City than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Atlantic City is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than Big Sur and is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Also, Atlantic City is famous for Steel Pier and the Boardwalk. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Atlantic City different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and Atlantic City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

Atlantic City is adequate for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Atlantic City and Big Sur both to be notable destinations.

Atlantic City offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Big Sur has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Atlantic City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Atlantic City. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

Atlantic City is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Atlantic City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Families?

Big Sur is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Big Sur. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City and Big Sur are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Atlantic City is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Atlantic City is a very walkable destination. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Atlantic City and Big Sur. In our opinion, Atlantic City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Atlantic City than Big Sur. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Big Sur 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 Atlantic City.

One day in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

In Atlantic City, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

In Atlantic City, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Atlantic City has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the remote destination of Big Sur. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Atlantic City or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Atlantic City. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food around the beautiful natural area of Big Sur. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Atlantic City Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Atlantic City or Big Sur?

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 Atlantic City or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Atlantic City during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Atlantic City is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Atlantic City. Atlantic City usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Big Sur. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Atlantic City is cooler than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Big Sur. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

Atlantic City can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in January than Big Sur. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In April, Atlantic City is generally cooler than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Atlantic City