A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Nightlife, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Atlantic City and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlantic City have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Atlantic City is better known for its nightlife and resorts, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its museums & sights, food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Atlantic City is more touristy than Carmel-by-the-Sea and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Atlantic City different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

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.

Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a great culinary experience. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Resorts?

Atlantic City is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

In Atlantic City, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for it's beautiful beaches. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

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 the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. 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.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea as a family destination.

Atlantic City doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. 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.

For families, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always the best place to visit. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Carmel-by-the-Sea frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Atlantic City is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Atlantic City has a few public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Atlantic City and Carmel-by-the-Sea both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable city. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Atlantic City Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Atlantic City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Atlantic City than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Atlantic City, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

Even though Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With food and shopping around the party-oriented city of Atlantic City, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the glitzy destination of Atlantic City. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Atlantic City is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Atlantic City and Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Atlantic City is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Atlantic City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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 Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Carmel-by-the-Sea. The autumn months attract visitors to Atlantic City because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year.

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

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in October than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Winter?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Atlantic City in the winter. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Spring?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Atlantic City is generally cooler than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Atlantic City