A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Santa Barbara for Beaches, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

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 Jacksonville and Santa Barbara. 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a fun, vibrant, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a stunning, wealthy, and opulent coastal town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Jacksonville and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santa Barbara than Jacksonville. While Jacksonville is larger than Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Barbara is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Jacksonville attracts visitors for its nightlife. Santa Barbara is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. It is also well known for The Old Mission Santa Barbara. Jacksonville is famous for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area.

How is Jacksonville different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Santa Barbara and Jacksonville.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Jacksonville. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

Is the Food Better in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Jacksonville and Santa Barbara.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Barbara makes for a great culinary experience. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Jacksonville offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Santa Barbara to choose from. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is renowned for the beach. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Santa Barbara offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

Santa Barbara has an old town worth visiting. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Santa Barbara is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Santa Barbara specifically to go shopping. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Jacksonville is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Santa Barbara. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is renowned for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Santa Barbara is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville is a popular place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Many students visit Santa Barbara. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Jacksonville is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Jacksonville and Santa Barbara.

Jacksonville has some public transit options. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

You'll find some public transit in Santa Barbara, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jacksonville and Santa Barbara. In our opinion, Santa Barbara has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Santa Barbara than Jacksonville. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Jacksonville 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Jacksonville. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Santa Barbara, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic coastal town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Santa Barbara is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Jacksonville. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the stunning destination of Santa Barbara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Santa Barbara is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Santa Barbara. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Santa Barbara, 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 Jacksonville or Santa Barbara?

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 Jacksonville or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Santa Barbara. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Jacksonville is much warmer than Santa Barbara in the summer. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Santa Barbara. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

Both Santa Barbara and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Jacksonville in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

Both Santa Barbara and Jacksonville during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Jacksonville is generally around the same temperature as Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 53°F (12°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

Jacksonville usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Santa Barbara. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Santa Barbara. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Jacksonville is a little warmer than Santa Barbara in the spring. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In April, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Jacksonville