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

Should you visit Boston 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 Boston 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.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Boston and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Boston than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Boston is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Boston different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Boston or Big Sur Better for Theater?

Boston is great for its shows and theatre. However, Big Sur is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Big Sur is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Boston or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boston 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.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

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 Boston or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

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 Boston or Big Sur Better for Music?

Boston is very good for its music scene. However, Big Sur is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Big Sur is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is notable for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

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.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Boston or Big Sur Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Big Sur?

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

Boston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

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 Boston or Big Sur Better for Christmas?

Boston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Big Sur does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Big Sur does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Big Sur Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Big Sur does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Big Sur does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Big Sur Better for Families?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Boston or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Both Boston and Big Sur are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

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

Is Boston or Big Sur Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Sur is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Boston or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

Big Sur is not a walkable 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 Boston Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Boston?

How long in Boston or Big Sur?

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

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

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

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

One day in Boston or Big Sur?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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.

A weekend in Boston or Big Sur?

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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.

Five days in Boston or Big Sur?

Boston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boston has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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.

A week in Boston or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Boston. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

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

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 Boston or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boston as well as Big Sur. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Boston is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Boston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Boston is cooler than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Boston during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

Boston can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Boston is much colder than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Boston in January average around 29°F (-2°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Boston usually gets more rain in January than Big Sur. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Big Sur. The spring months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In April, Boston is generally much colder than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 48°F (9°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Boston