A Travel Price Comparison for California Big Sur vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Beaches

Should you visit Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking.

Big Sur and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Sur. Although Big Sur and Redwood National Park are popular destinations, Big Sur has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Sur is very popular for its food and beaches, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Big Sur is famous for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. It is also well known for Bixby Bridge. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Big Sur different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park?

Neither Big Sur or Redwood National Park offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Big Sur. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Redwood National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Is the Food Better in Big Sur or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Sur is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Big Sur area. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Big Sur or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Big Sur or Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park for the nightlife. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Big Sur or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is well known for the beach. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Is Big Sur or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

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 Redwood National Park?

Neither Big Sur or Redwood National Park offer decent shopping options.

Shopping in Big Sur can be found for those interested. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Redwood National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Big Sur or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for couples. Also, Redwood National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Redwood National Park is a great natural area if you're traveling as a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Is Big Sur or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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 Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Big Sur or Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Big Sur or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Neither Big Sur or Redwood National Park 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.

Redwood National Park is not a walkable natural area. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

In either Big Sur or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than Big Sur because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Big Sur than Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park.

One day in Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

In Big Sur, you'll find food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, one day is sufficent for most.

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This park 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 Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this natural area. It offers something for everyone.

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Redwood National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

You'll find food around the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Redwood National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Redwood National Park. 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 Redwood National Park, we can see that Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Big Sur or Redwood National Park?

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 Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Redwood National Park. Many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Big Sur is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in July than Redwood National Park. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

Both Redwood National Park and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Big Sur is a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Big Sur in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In October, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Big Sur or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

Both Redwood National Park and Big Sur during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

In January, Big Sur is generally a little warmer than Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 51°F (11°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Redwood National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Big Sur usually gets less rain in January than Redwood National Park. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Redwood National Park. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Big Sur is a little warmer than Redwood National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In April, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Big Sur