A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Monterey for Beaches, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Boca Raton or Monterey?

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 Monterey. 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 posh, outdoorsy, and relaxed coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Boca Raton and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boca Raton. Although Boca Raton and Monterey are popular destinations, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is more touristy than Boca Raton and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. 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 Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Monterey and Boca Raton.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Boca Raton. 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.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Boca Raton and Monterey both to be excellent destinations.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Boca Raton and Monterey.

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.

Monterey has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Boca Raton to choose from. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find nice places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Boca Raton and Monterey.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Boca Raton offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Boca Raton offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Monterey?

If you're looking to go shopping, Boca Raton and Monterey both offer plenty of excellent spots.

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.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Boca Raton is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Couples?

Boca Raton and Monterey both excellent destinations for a couple.

Boca Raton is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Monterey is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

Boca Raton is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Boca Raton has some public transit options. 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 generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Boca Raton or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Boca Raton is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Boca Raton is somewhat walkable. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Monterey?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Boca Raton than Monterey. 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 Monterey than Boca Raton 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 Monterey.

One day in Boca Raton or Monterey?

The coastal city of Boca Raton offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the nature-oriented city of Monterey, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monterey, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Boca Raton or Monterey?

Boca Raton is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Monterey, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Boca Raton or Monterey?

Boca Raton is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boca Raton, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Monterey, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Monterey?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Monterey 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 Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Boca Raton and Monterey, we can see that Boca Raton is more expensive. And not only is Monterey much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Monterey would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Monterey 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 Monterey.

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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Boca Raton or Monterey?

Boca Raton has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Boca Raton and Monterey, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Boca Raton or Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Monterey. The summer months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

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

Boca Raton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Monterey. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Boca Raton or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Monterey. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene.

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

Boca Raton receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Monterey 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 Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

Should I visit Boca Raton or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Boca Raton during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

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

Boca Raton usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Monterey 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 Monterey and Boca Raton