A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Sacramento for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Sacramento?

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 Clearwater and Sacramento. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and adventure-filled coastal city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Sacramento

Sacramento is a laid back, relaxed, and undiscovered city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Clearwater and Sacramento: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Sacramento?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Clearwater than Sacramento. While Sacramento is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is more touristy than Sacramento and is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also well known for Clearwater Beach. Sacramento is famous for its history and state capital.

How is Clearwater different from Sacramento?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Sacramento?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Both Clearwater and Sacramento have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Sacramento offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As the state capital, you'll find a number of historical and informational museums around town. You should check out the State Capital, as well as the California State Railroad Museum, the Crocker Museum of Art, Sutter's Fort State Historic Park, and the California Automobile Museum.


Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Sacramento? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Clearwater has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sacramento area. Casual restaurants with laid back atmospheres are what's most common around town. You'll also find a variety of international cuisines that include Korean and Vietnamese.

Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Evening events are nice in both Clearwater and Sacramento.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sacramento. There highest concentration of activities are found in Downtown Sacramento. You'll find bars, clubs and live music in the area. You can also head to midtown, which has performing arts and comedy shows.

Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Sacramento is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Sacramento is not a resort destination.


Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sacramento is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Sacramento is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is very popular for the beache. However, Sacramento is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Clearwater are among the best in the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Sacramento is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Sacramento?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Both Clearwater and Sacramento are nice shopping destinations.

Clearwater is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sacramento. You'll find down-to-earth vendors who have reasonable prices and a great selection. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at the Old Sacramento Waterfront or along Folsom Boulevard.


Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Families?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sacramento is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Clearwater is very family-friendly. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sacramento. With the large number of families that live in the area, you'll a variety of kid-friendly activities. Options include smaller amusement parks like Funderland Amusement Park, museums like the Sacramento Children's Museum, and indoor trampoline parks. There's also Fairytale Town, which is an imagination filled playground.

Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for couples.

Clearwater makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Sacramento is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Picnics, nice restaurants, and shows make for enjoyable date activities while you're in town.

Is Clearwater or Sacramento Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Both Clearwater and Sacramento offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sacramento. There's both light rail and buses around town.


Is Clearwater or Sacramento a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Sacramento

Clearwater is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Sacramento is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Sacramento is generally not very walkable. You'll really want a car to get around town, but Midtown is one of the more walkable areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Sacramento Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sacramento or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Sacramento?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Clearwater or Sacramento to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Clearwater than Sacramento because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-2 days is enough time in Sacramento.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Sacramento 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 Clearwater.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Sacramento? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Sacramento 1-2

One day in Clearwater or Sacramento?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful coastal city of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the laid back city of Sacramento, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sacramento, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Clearwater or Sacramento?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Clearwater, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Sacramento, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Clearwater or Sacramento?

Clearwater, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sacramento, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Sacramento?

Clearwater is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sacramento is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sacramento or Clearwater?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $309, while the average daily cost in Sacramento is $281. 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 Clearwater and Sacramento in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Sacramento $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Sacramento $222
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Sacramento

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater or Sacramento? 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 Clearwater


Hotels in Sacramento


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: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Sacramento Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Sacramento $51

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $126
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $101
  • St Petersburg to Tampa Airport (TPA) -Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • From Orlando: Clearwater Beach Day with Transfers and Lunch: $100

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sacramento

Also for Sacramento, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $110
  • Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Napa, CA - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $219

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Sacramento?

Prices for flights to both Sacramento and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $46
    Sacramento $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour: $98
  • Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour: $98
  • Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour: $125
  • Midtown Walking Food Tour: $145
  • Italian Cooking and Dance Class Experience: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Sacramento $19

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • 1.5 Hour Tiki Tour with Open Bar in Clearwater Beach: $49
  • 2 Hour Guided Kayak Tour in Boca Ciega Bay - St. Pete: $55
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour of Downtown St Pete: $59
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $54
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry: $67
  • 90 Minute Axe Throwing Guided Experience in Clearwater at Hatchet Hangout: $50
  • All Day Fishing Experience from John's Pass in Madeira Beach, FL - 10 Hours: $160
  • Aqua Sol Adventures -Signature Sunset Cruise and Bridge tour: $275
  • Bay Area Info Tours- Tours of Pinellas in a Luxury Mini Van: $100

Tours and Activities in Sacramento

For Sacramento, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Gold Rush & Ghosts SmartPhone App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Gold Rush and Ghosts of Sacramento Smart Phone guided (App/GPS) Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Old A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Historic Folsom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Placerville to Jackson: $12
  • Driving in Delta’s Wine Country: Private Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Delta's History and Wine: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Jackson to Angels Camp: $12
  • A Highway 49 Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour from Auburn to Placerville: $12
  • Sacramento Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Sacramento $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Sacramento

Also in Sacramento, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Sacramento Bar Hunt: Sacramento Sprint Bar Crawl: $12
  • Cider and Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch - near Sacramento: $125


When comparing the travel costs between Clearwater and Sacramento, we can see that Clearwater 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 Clearwater Expensive? and Is Sacramento Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Sacramento?

Sacramento has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Sacramento, 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 Clearwater or Sacramento?

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 Clearwater or Sacramento in the Summer?

Both Sacramento and Clearwater during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Sacramento for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Clearwater is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the summer temperatures in Clearwater in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Sacramento averages at about 76°F (24°C).

In Sacramento, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Sacramento. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 439 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Sacramento. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C) 
    Sacramento 76°F (24°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Sacramento in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Sacramento. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Sacramento because of the shopping scene.

In October, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Sacramento. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 75°F (24°C), and Sacramento fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sacramento this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 300 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Sacramento 64°F (18°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Sacramento in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Sacramento. The winter months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sacramento this time of year.

Clearwater is much warmer than Sacramento in the winter. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Sacramento fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Sacramento. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sacramento receives 149 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Sacramento. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 3.8 inches (97 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Sacramento 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Sacramento in the Spring?

Both Sacramento and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year.

In the spring, Clearwater is a little warmer than Sacramento. Typically, the spring temperatures in Clearwater in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Sacramento averages at about 58°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Sacramento. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Sacramento during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Sacramento receives 328 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Sacramento. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Sacramento receives 1.3 inches (32 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Sacramento 58°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Sacramento and Clearwater

Clearwater Sacramento
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 58°F (15°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 76°F (24°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 75°F (24°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 45°F (7°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)