A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Big Sur for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Boca Raton or Big Sur?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boca Raton and Big Sur. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a relaxed, luxurious, and posh coastal city. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Boca Raton and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Big Sur?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boca Raton. Although Boca Raton and Big Sur are popular destinations, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boca Raton is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Big Sur attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Big Sur is more touristy than Boca Raton and is known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Boca Raton is famous for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also well known for Red Reef Park.

How is Boca Raton different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Boca Raton specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

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 Boca Raton or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton 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.

Boca Raton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

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 Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Boca Raton for the nightlife scene. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into 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 Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Boca Raton. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Boca Raton is a very popular vacation destination. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. 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.

Is Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is great for hiking. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Boca Raton is a good destination for hiking. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Big Sur?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

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 Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Families?

Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

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 Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Boca Raton is a very popular place to visit for couples. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Is Boca Raton or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Boca Raton is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Boca Raton is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's known for its upscale luxury, and you won't find much in the form of hostels or backpacker-friendly accommodation.

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

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

While Boca Raton offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

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

Is Boca Raton or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Boca Raton is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable coastal city. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Big Sur is not a walkable coastal city. 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 Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Boca Raton and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Boca Raton than in Big Sur. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton 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 Boca Raton.

One day in Boca Raton or Big Sur?

In Boca Raton, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food around the remote natural area of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Big Sur?

In Boca Raton, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With food around the destination of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

Five days in Boca Raton or Big Sur?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boca Raton has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur, a popular natural area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Boca Raton or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boca Raton. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Boca Raton. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Big Sur 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 The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

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

When is the best time to visit Boca Raton or Big Sur?

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 Boca Raton or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Big Sur in the summer. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In July, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Boca Raton during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Boca Raton is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boca Raton in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Big Sur averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Big Sur. Most visitors come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

In January, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 65°F (19°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Big Sur. The spring months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Big Sur in the spring. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Boca Raton usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Boca Raton