A Travel Price Comparison for California Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

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 San Diego 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 picturesque, quaint, and charming town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, food, and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea 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, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its food, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Carmel-by-the-Sea and is popular 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. Carmel-by-the-Sea is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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.

Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

San Diego offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego is very popular with diverse venues. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its resorts. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. 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.

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

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for the beach. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its beaches.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

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.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well-known for its shopping. 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.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Families?

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

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

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 San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Diego offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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 mostly 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

In either Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 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 San Diego.

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

Even though Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of San Diego, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 San Diego?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With live music and food around the outdoorsy coastal city of San Diego, 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 San Diego?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the fun-filled destination of San Diego, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this coastal city 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 San Diego?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. This coastal city 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Diego, we can see that San Diego 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 San Diego would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Diego 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Diego, 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as San Diego. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 63°F (17°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives more rain than San Diego. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in January average around 51°F (11°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Diego. Most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 56°F (13°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives more rain than San Diego. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Carmel-by-the-Sea