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

Should you visit Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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.

Austin

Austin is a eccentric, unconventional, and lively city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Austin travel costs.

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. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Austin and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Austin than Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Austin is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Austin and is known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Austin is well known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Austin is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Austin. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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.

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

Austin is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Austin have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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.

Is Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

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

Austin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Music?

Austin is renowned for its music scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

In Austin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

Is Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great destination for its beaches. However, Austin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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.

Austin is not a beach destination.

Is Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Hiking?

Austin is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin 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 Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its scenery and beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Austin is beautiful destination to visit. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Is Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Austin is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Austin is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

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

Is Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great destination for romance. Also, Austin 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.

Austin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

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

Austin is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Austin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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 Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Students?

Austin is a well-known place for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Austin. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Austin and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Public transit is generally limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

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 Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

How long in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Austin and Carmel-by-the-Sea. In our opinion, Austin has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Austin than Carmel-by-the-Sea. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Austin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Austin. 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 Austin 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 Austin.

One day in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Austin, there's plenty to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With museums and nightlife around the entrepreneurial city of Austin, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the unconventional destination of Austin. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Austin is a popular choice for travelers. 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 it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Austin has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Austin 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 Austin 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 Austin or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Austin and Carmel-by-the-Sea. The hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Austin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Austin is generally much warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 87°F (30°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Austin usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Austin as well as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Many travelers come to Austin for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Austin is a little warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea in the autumn. The daily temperature in Austin averages around 73°F (23°C) in October, and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Austin usually gets more rain in October than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Austin gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Austin are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Austin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Austin is around the same temperature as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Typically, the winter temperatures in Austin in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Austin usually receives less rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Austin gets 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Austin during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Austin is generally much warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Austin average around 71°F (22°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Austin usually gets more rain in April than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Austin gets 3.5 inches (89 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 Austin