A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Cape Cod or San Diego?

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 Cape Cod and San Diego. 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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cape Cod and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cape Cod or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Cape Cod and San Diego are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is known for its food, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. San Diego is more touristy than Cape Cod and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Cape Cod is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cape Cod different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego and Cape Cod. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or San Diego?

San Diego is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Cod has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for its music scene. However, Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Resorts?

There are good resorts to choose from in both Cape Cod and San Diego.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its beaches.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or San Diego?

Cape Cod is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Cape Cod is well-known for its shopping. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for romance.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod and San Diego both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Cape Cod or San Diego a more walkable city?

Cape Cod and San Diego are good when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or San Diego?

In either Cape Cod or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Cape Cod 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 San Diego.

One day in Cape Cod or San Diego?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The coastal city of San Diego offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Cape Cod or San Diego?

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Five days in Cape Cod or San Diego?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

San Diego 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 San Diego, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or San Diego?

Cape Cod is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Cod, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cape Cod and San Diego, we can see that San Diego is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Cod Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or San Diego?

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 Cape Cod or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In July, Cape Cod is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 68°F (20°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during summer. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than San Diego. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cape Cod or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Cape Cod during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Cape Cod is much colder than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Cape Cod often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cape Cod or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and San Diego. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cape Cod. In the winter, Cape Cod is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Cod in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Cape Cod usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during winter. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than San Diego. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cape Cod or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as San Diego. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cape Cod is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 45°F (7°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Cod often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Cape Cod