A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Big Sur vs. Anchorage for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Big Sur or Anchorage?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Big Sur and Anchorage can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a breathtaking, cultural, and artsy city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Big Sur and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Anchorage?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Anchorage than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Anchorage is better known for its museums, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Anchorage is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture. Also, Anchorage is famous for Chugach State Park.

How is Big Sur different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Anchorage is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Anchorage. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.

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 Big Sur or Anchorage? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Big Sur and Anchorage can be an enjoyable experience.

Big Sur is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Anchorage offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Big Sur or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Anchorage is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Anchorage doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

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 Big Sur or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Big Sur attract visitors from all over. 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.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Anchorage is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Anchorage specifically for its hiking. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Anchorage?

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

Anchorage has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

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 Big Sur or Anchorage Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Big Sur or Anchorage.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. 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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Big Sur or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Big Sur is a great natural area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.

Is Big Sur or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Big Sur and Anchorage are notable places to visit.

Big Sur is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

It's common for backpackers to visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

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

Neither Big Sur or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Big Sur or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Anchorage is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

Big Sur is not a walkable natural area. 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 Big Sur Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Anchorage?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage 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 Anchorage.

One day in Big Sur or Anchorage?

You'll find food around the natural area of Big Sur. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Sur has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Anchorage, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

A weekend in Big Sur or Anchorage?

You'll find food around the remote destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Anchorage, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Anchorage has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Anchorage?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic natural area of Big Sur. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Anchorage is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Big Sur or Anchorage?

Big Sur is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Anchorage. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Anchorage. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

When is the best time to visit Big Sur or Anchorage?

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 Big Sur or Anchorage in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Big Sur is a little warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the summer temperatures in Big Sur in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Anchorage averages at about 59°F (15°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in July than Anchorage. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Anchorage in the Autumn?

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

Anchorage can be very cold during autumn. In October, Big Sur is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 62°F (17°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In October, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Anchorage. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Big Sur or Anchorage in the Winter?

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

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Big Sur is much warmer than Anchorage in the winter. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

Big Sur usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Anchorage in the Spring?

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

It's quite cold in Anchorage in the spring. In the spring, Big Sur is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the spring temperatures in Big Sur in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Anchorage averages at about 36°F (2°C).

In April, Big Sur usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Big Sur