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

Should you visit Big Sur or Juneau?

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

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Juneau

Juneau is a historic, scenic, and breathtaking 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 Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Juneau?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Juneau. Although Big Sur and Juneau are both popular with visitors, Juneau has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Juneau is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while Big Sur is known for its beaches. Big Sur is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Juneau is popular for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880. It is also home to the Mendenhall Glacier.

How is Big Sur different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Juneau 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 Juneau?

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

Many visitors head to Juneau specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Juneau is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Juneau has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Big Sur or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

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

Juneau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

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 Juneau Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a well-known place for the beache. However, Juneau 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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau 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 Juneau specifically for its hiking. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

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 Juneau?

Juneau is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

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 Juneau Better for Families?

Juneau is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Big Sur or Juneau Better for Couples?

Both Big Sur and Juneau are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur 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.

Juneau has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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

Juneau 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 Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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 Juneau Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Juneau is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Juneau a more walkable city?

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

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Juneau?

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

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

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

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

One day in Big Sur or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Juneau, 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. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Juneau?

Big Sur 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.

In Juneau, 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 Juneau has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Juneau 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 Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the remote destination of Big Sur. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Juneau. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Juneau. 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 Juneau, we can see that Juneau 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 Juneau would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Juneau 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 Juneau Expensive?.

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

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 Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Big Sur during the summer are popular places to visit. 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 Juneau because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Big Sur is generally a little warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 63°F (17°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Big Sur usually gets less rain in July than Juneau. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Juneau. The autumn months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

Big Sur is much warmer than Juneau in the autumn. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Juneau. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Big Sur or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Juneau. The cuisine are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Juneau for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Juneau. In the winter, Big Sur is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the winter temperatures in Big Sur in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Juneau averages at about 24°F (-4°C).

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Big Sur usually gets less rain in January than Juneau. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the spring for the natural beauty.

Juneau can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Big Sur is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 56°F (13°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In April, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Juneau. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Big Sur