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

Should you visit Big Sur or Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a unique, outdoorsy, and remote city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, hiking, and shopping.

Big Sur and Fairbanks: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Fairbanks?

Both Fairbanks and Big Sur have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Big Sur is very popular for its food and beaches, while Fairbanks attracts visitors for its skiing, museums, and shopping. Big Sur is more touristy than Fairbanks and is known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Fairbanks is famous for its remote wilderness setting, access to the Arctic, unique winter sports, and popularity for seeing the northern lights.

How is Big Sur different from Fairbanks?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Big Sur or Fairbanks Better for Skiing?

Fairbanks is adequate for skiing. However, Big Sur is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Fairbanks for snow skiing. The closest ski areas are the ski resorts of Fort Wainwright/Birch Hill, Moose Mountain and Skiland. The area also has dog mushing, snowshoeing, sledding, tubing and sleigh riding.

Big Sur is not a skiing destination.

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

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. The city is mostly known for its outdoor activities, but you can also visit the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center, the Aurora Ice Museum, Fountainhead Auto Museum, the Museum of the North, and Pioneer Park.

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 Fairbanks? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Sur is a popular place for its restaurants. However, Fairbanks is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Fairbanks offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Food can be expensive and of varying quality, but many restaurants use local meats and seafood. There's a surprising number of international restaurants in town as well. Also make sure you try the local specialties like reindeer sausage, Yukon gold potatoes, and Alaskan salmon.

Is Big Sur or Fairbanks Better for Nightlife?

Neither Big Sur or Fairbanks offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Big Sur There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

People don't go to Fairbanks for the nightlife. You will find some bars around town, but for the most part, the city stays quiet at night.

Is Big Sur or Fairbanks Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a very popular place for the beach. However, Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Big Sur is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Fairbanks is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Fairbanks Better for Hiking?

You'll find great hiking in both Big Sur and Fairbanks.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. 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.

Fairbanks is a popular spot for hiking. While the town serves as a gateway to the Arctic and all that it has to offer, there are also hiking trails both in town and nearby. There are trails that connect the city's historic sites as well as day hikes that start at the edge of town.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Fairbanks?

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

Fairbanks has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are interesting local shops and boutiques that sell native Alaskan handmade items. You'll find "Made in Alaska" merchandise at many boutiques and souvenir shops. There are also larger retailers available in case you forgot clothing or other items at home.

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 Fairbanks Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Big Sur or Fairbanks.

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.

Fairbanks is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy searching for wildlife, playing in the snow, and exploring nature will love a visit to Fairbanks. Make sure you visit the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as well as Pioneer Park.

Is Big Sur or Fairbanks Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for couples. Also, Fairbanks is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Fairbanks is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy hiking and nature will love a visit here. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, Fairbanks is your best destination in Alaska. Try to visit sometime between August to April for the best chance of enjoying the lights.

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

Fairbanks is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fairbanks. There are many outdoor recreation areas where backpackers can explore. Alaska, and Fairbanks in particular, can have very harsh conditions, so unless you know what you're doing, it's best to take a guide.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Neither Big Sur or Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks. There is a public bus system that connects the downtown area with the shopping areas and the university. However, you really can't rely on it to explore the region and you should have your own vehicle.

Is Big Sur or Fairbanks a more walkable city?

Neither Big Sur or Fairbanks are walkable places.

Big Sur is not a very 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.

Fairbanks is not a walkable natural area. The city was built for cars and there are very few walkable areas around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Fairbanks or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Fairbanks?

It's fun to spend time in either Big Sur or Fairbanks. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Fairbanks due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 2-4 days is enough time in Fairbanks.

Couples should spend more time in Big Sur than Fairbanks. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Sur that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Big Sur or Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks, you'll find shopping and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks, you'll find museums 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fairbanks has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Fairbanks?

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.

Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks?

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 Fairbanks. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Fairbanks. 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 Fairbanks, we can see that Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks Expensive?.

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

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 Big Sur or Fairbanks in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Fairbanks. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Fairbanks because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Big Sur is around the same temperature as Fairbanks in the summer. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In July, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Fairbanks. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 2 inches (51 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Big Sur or Fairbanks in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Fairbanks. The autumn months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fairbanks this time of year.

It's quite cold in Fairbanks in the autumn. In the autumn, Big Sur is much warmer than Fairbanks. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Big Sur in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Fairbanks averages at about 27°F (-3°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in October than Fairbanks. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Fairbanks in the Winter?

Both Fairbanks and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Fairbanks for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Fairbanks. In January, Big Sur is generally much warmer than Fairbanks. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 51°F (11°C), and Fairbanks fluctuates around -9°F (-23°C).

In January, Big Sur usually receives more rain than Fairbanks. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Big Sur or Fairbanks in the Spring?

Both Fairbanks and Big Sur during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Fairbanks in the spring for the natural beauty.

Fairbanks can get quite cold in the spring. Big Sur is much warmer than Fairbanks in the spring. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Fairbanks fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

Big Sur usually gets more rain in April than Fairbanks. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Fairbanks receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Fairbanks and Big Sur