A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Monterey?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Monterey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxing beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Destin and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Destin is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Destin different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Destin or Monterey?

Monterey is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Monterey specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Destin or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is notable for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Monterey has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Destin is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Destin to choose from. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Monterey. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Destin is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Destin for it's beautiful beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Monterey?

Monterey is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Monterey is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Destin or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Monterey is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Destin Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Destin?

How long in Destin or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Destin and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in Monterey. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Destin 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 Monterey.

One day in Destin or Monterey?

The beach town of Destin offers shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Destin or Monterey?

Destin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Monterey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Monterey?

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Destin, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Monterey?

Destin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Destin has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin and Monterey, 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 Destin or Monterey?

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 Destin or Monterey in the Summer?

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

In July, Destin is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 82°F (28°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Monterey. Most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Monterey because of the shopping scene.

Destin is a little warmer than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Destin usually receives more rain than Monterey. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Destin or Monterey in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Destin is around the same temperature as Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Destin in January average around 50°F (10°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. Destin usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches.

In April, Destin is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 68°F (20°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Destin usually receives more rain than Monterey. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Destin