A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Park City Utah for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

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 Park City Utah 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 quaint, charming, and picturesque town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a high energy, adventurous, and active town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Park City Utah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Park City Utah. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Park City Utah are popular destinations, Park City Utah has more sights and attractions for tourists. Park City Utah is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors for its museums, beaches, and small town charm. Park City Utah is more touristy than Carmel-by-the-Sea and is popular for the Sundance Film Festival and world-renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also well known for Deer Valley Resort. Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Park City Utah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah Better for Skiing?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for snow skiing. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Park City Utah. Two ski resorts are nearby, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Park City Mountain is the largest resort in the United States. There are 7,300 acres that include two different base areas, 41 lifts, and 6 terrain parks. There's ski-in ski-out access from the town's Main Street, and options for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Deer Valley Resort is a ritzy and upscale option that is more glamorous and high class.

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


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Park City Utah is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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.

Park City Utah offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums and some nice art galleries in town. There are also museums at Olympic Park.

Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Park City Utah.

Dining out in Carmel-by-the-Sea is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Park City Utah. Park City has a wonderful food scene with many award-winning restaurants. Many restaurants offer fine dining experiences and even the more casual options are high priced with high quality dishes. You'll also find many great breakfast restaurants and cafes so you can start your day off with a filling meal.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah Better for Nightlife?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Park City Utah is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. After a day on the slopes, you'll return to a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and live music. Most of the action is concentrated around Main Street and it's easy to walk to most venues, even when the weather is cold and snowy.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah Better for Resorts?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

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

In Park City Utah, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find most of the major chains as well as smaller and more personal hotels. Many hotels have hot tubs and pools, and many offer easy access to the ski gondola.

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

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for the beach. However, Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Park City Utah is not a beach destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah Better for Hiking?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Park City Utah is a popular spot for hiking. If you're visiting during a warmer month, hiking is a great way to experience the area's beauty. There are more than 350 miles of hiking trails that pass through forests, canyons, creeks, and mountain ridges. You'll find options for every skill level and regardless of the hike you choose, it's sure to take your breath away.

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


Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Park City Utah are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Park City Utah. Wander down the historic Main Street and enjoy shopping at the many quaint vendors and art galleries. There are also outlet malls in town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah Better for Families?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Park City Utah is an extremely popular town to visit for families. There is kid-family skiing, ziplining, and alpine coasters. The free museums at Olympic Park are fun to explore as well and are filled with memorabilia from the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, there are kid-friendly restaurants and playgrounds where the little ones can run around.

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 Park City Utah Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

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

Park City Utah is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the area's many great restaurants and beautiful hikes. There are romantic hotels as well as sleigh rides and evening walks that will make this an unforgettable destination.

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 Park City Utah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Park City Utah is a good town to visit for backpackers. Although the town is notoriously expensive, there is a hostel in town that appeals to backpackers.

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 Park City Utah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Park City Utah offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are 13 free bus routes as well as seasonal transportation providers.

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.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Park City Utah

Park City Utah is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Park City Utah on foot. It's a very walkable town and is easy to explore on foot.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Park City Utah or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

In either Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Park City Utah than Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 3-5 days is enough time in Park City Utah.

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

Couples should spend more time in Park City Utah than Carmel-by-the-Sea. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Park City Utah that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Park City Utah than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Park City Utah.


  • How many days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 1-3 
    Park City Utah 3-5

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Most people come for the beaches. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food and shopping around the destination of Park City Utah, 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 Park City Utah?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

With shopping and skiing around the high energy town of Park City Utah, 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 Park City Utah?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With skiing and nightlife around the high energy destination of Park City Utah, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this town 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 Park City Utah?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Park City Utah is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


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, Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah is $320. 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 Park City Utah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Park City Utah $202
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Park City Utah $404
Compare Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Park City Utah

Looking for a hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah? 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 Park City Utah


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 Park City Utah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $125
    Park City Utah $72

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Park City Utah

Also for Park City Utah, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Departure Transfer from Park City Ski Resort to Provo Airport PVU: $33
  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $90
  • Canyons Village to Salt Lake Airport (SLC) - Departure Transfer: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

Prices for flights to both Park City Utah 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
    Park City Utah $65

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Park City Utah $68

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 Park City Utah

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Park City Utah.

  • Park City Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Privately Guided Snowshoe Experience: $108
  • Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour in Park City: $175
  • 2 Hours Off Road Tour in Utah: $175
  • Guided Fly Fishing Experience in Park City: $260

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Park City Utah $46

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 Park City Utah, we can see that Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Park City Utah 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 Park City Utah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Park City Utah?

Park City Utah has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Park City Utah, 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.