A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.

Clearwater

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

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Clearwater and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Clearwater. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Clearwater attracts visitors for its food and resorts. San Diego is more touristy than Clearwater 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 well known for The San Diego Zoo. Clearwater is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports.

How is Clearwater different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Clearwater and San Diego have excellent 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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Clearwater 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.

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 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 Clearwater or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

San Diego is notable for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is notable for live music. However, Clearwater is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Clearwater is not a live music destination.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. 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.

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.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find nice places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Clearwater and San Diego.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. 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.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Beaches?

Clearwater and San Diego both offer terrific beaches.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. 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.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or San Diego?

Both Clearwater and San Diego 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 San Diego. 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 Clearwater or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its kid-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.

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.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

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.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

Is Clearwater or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is a world-class destination for students. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Both Clearwater and San Diego 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 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 Clearwater or San Diego a more walkable city?

Clearwater and San Diego both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or San Diego?

In either Clearwater or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Clearwater. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Clearwater. 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 Clearwater. 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

With museums and nightlife around the dynamic coastal city of San Diego, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or San Diego?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventure-filled destination of Clearwater. 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 coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Clearwater or San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing coastal city of Clearwater. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

San Diego, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or San Diego?

Clearwater is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as San Diego. The summer months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, 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 the summer, Clearwater is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Clearwater in July average around 82°F (28°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Clearwater or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene are the main draw to Clearwater 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.

In October, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 75°F (24°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives more rain than San Diego. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Should I visit Clearwater or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the museums, 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.

Clearwater is around the same temperature as San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and San Diego. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Clearwater is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Clearwater in April average around 71°F (22°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives more rain than San Diego. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Clearwater