A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Grand Teton National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pebble Beach Golf Course
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Grand Teton National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Carmel-by-the-Sea is better known for its museums, food, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Grand Teton National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for Pebble Beach Golf Course. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Teton National Park and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Carmel-by-the-Sea specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Grand Teton National Park. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is considered a top beach destination. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Around Grand Teton National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Grand Teton National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Carmel-by-the-Sea is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Grand Teton National Park

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

For even more information, also check out Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Grand Teton National Park 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.


  • How many days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 1-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Even though Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

With around the destination of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.


A weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

With around the vast park of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

With around the impressive destination of Grand Teton National Park, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

A week in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Carmel-by-the-Sea is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea


Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Carmel-by-the-Sea Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $125
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Carmel-by-the-Sea or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Carmel-by-the-Sea change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $153
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

  • Thai Cooking Class in Monterey: $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Carmel-by-the-Sea are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Monterey and Cannery Row Sea Car Tour: $79
  • 17 Mile Drive: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of Pebble Beach’s Historical Highlights: $9.99
  • 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour: $68
  • 2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove Sea Car Tour: $149
  • 2.5-Hour Electric Bike Tour Along 17 Mile Drive of Coastal Monterey: $65
  • 3-Hour Monterey Bay Winter Whale-Watching Tour: $70
  • 3-Hour Monterey, Cannery Row and Pacific Grove Sea Car Tour: $189
  • Big Sur Self-Driving Audio Tour: Highway 1, Pacific Coast Highway: $17
  • Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour: $139
  • Carmel by the Sea 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $20
  • Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour: $68
  • Fairy Tale Houses Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $149
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $149


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Grand Teton National Park is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Grand Teton National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Grand Teton National Park than you might in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.