A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bar Harbor vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Bar Harbor or Monterey?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bar Harbor and Monterey can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a quaint, charming, and picturesque coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bar Harbor and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Bar Harbor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums & sights, nightlife, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Bar Harbor is more popular for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bar Harbor is well known for its small town vibe, picturesque setting, whale watching tours, and convenient location near Acadia National Park. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Bar Harbor different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Monterey is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Monterey. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Bar Harbor does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bar Harbor or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Bar Harbor and Monterey.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bar Harbor makes for a great culinary experience. The town is famous for its Maine lobster, but there are also countless other types of fresh seafood available. You'll find waterfront restaurants with beautiful views and fresh ingredients.

Monterey has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for nightlife and partying.

Monterey offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Bar Harbor doesn't offer many options. It's a peaceful and sleepy town, so you wont find much in the way of nightlife.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Bar Harbor is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Bar Harbor has a few great resort options. The town is all about the cute hotel. Several favorites include Sand Bar Cottage Inn, Bluenose Inn, and Bar Harbor Inn and Spa.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bar Harbor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Bar Harbor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Both Bar Harbor and Monterey are considered to be notable beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Bar Harbor. A nice beach is close by but do note that the sand is very shelly and there is a big difference between high and low tides.

Monterey offers a nice beach destination. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Bar Harbor is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Bar Harbor offers some nice hiking trails. Nearby Acadia National Park has plenty of hiking options. There's also the Bar Harbor Shore Path that wanders along the coastline and offers beautiful views.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Both Bar Harbor and Monterey are very good shopping destinations.

Bar Harbor is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Filled with plenty of local boutique shops, its fun to enjoy some shopping around town.

Monterey is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bar Harbor is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Monterey is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Bar Harbor is a family-friendly coastal town. It is a small town with a lot of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Whale watching, kayaking, and wildlife spotting are all fun activities for all ages.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Couples?

Both Bar Harbor and Monterey are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bar Harbor is a very popular place to visit for couples. It is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a couple's getaway or a short honeymoon. There are romantic restaurants, scenic walks, and beautiful views that make this a wonderful retreat.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Bar Harbor is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Monterey is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Bar Harbor is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's a small town with mostly high end accommodation so budget travelers and backpackers will struggle to find a place to stay.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Bar Harbor and Monterey offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Bar Harbor. There is a free shuttle bus that will help you get around town if needed.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Bar Harbor or Monterey a more walkable city?

Bar Harbor and Monterey both are very good when exploring on foot.

Bar Harbor is very walkable. The town is small enough that it's easily explored on foot.

Monterey is a very walkable coastal town. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bar Harbor Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Bar Harbor?

How long in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bar Harbor and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Bar Harbor. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Bar Harbor, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Bar Harbor 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 Monterey.

One day in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Bar Harbor is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back city of Monterey, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monterey, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Bar Harbor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bar Harbor, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Monterey, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Bar Harbor is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Monterey, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Bar Harbor is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Monterey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bar Harbor Expensive? and Is Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bar Harbor or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Bar Harbor and Monterey, 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 Bar Harbor or Monterey?

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 Bar Harbor or Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Bar Harbor during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bar Harbor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bar Harbor is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Bar Harbor average around 69°F (21°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Bar Harbor usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Bar Harbor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bar Harbor and Monterey. Many travelers come to Bar Harbor for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Bar Harbor is much colder than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bar Harbor averages around 48°F (9°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Bar Harbor usually receives more rain than Monterey. Bar Harbor gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Monterey in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bar Harbor as well as Monterey. Many visitors come to Bar Harbor in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bar Harbor can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bar Harbor is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bar Harbor in January average around 18°F (-8°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Bar Harbor usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Bar Harbor gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bar Harbor or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Bar Harbor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches.

In April, Bar Harbor is generally much colder than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Bar Harbor average around 43°F (6°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Bar Harbor usually receives more rain than Monterey. Bar Harbor gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Bar Harbor