A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Santa Monica for Beaches, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Santa Monica 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.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a relaxing, secluded, and natural island. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and beaches.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a lively, funfilled, and energetic town. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Jekyll Island and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Jekyll Island and Santa Monica are both popular with visitors, Santa Monica has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Santa Monica is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Jekyll Island is known for its resorts and hiking. Santa Monica is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also home to the Santa Monica Pier. Jekyll Island is popular for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Santa Monica and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

Santa Monica is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Santa Monica has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Santa Monica has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island is a moderate island for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Jekyll Island offers a few options. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Santa Monica is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Many people visit Jekyll Island for it's beautiful beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Jekyll Island is a popular spot for hiking. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santa Monica. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Monica is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Santa Monica is a good town to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island is not a good place to visit for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Jekyll Island or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Santa Monica is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jekyll Island and Santa Monica. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Jekyll Island than in Santa Monica. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Monica than Jekyll Island 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 Monica.

One day in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

In Jekyll Island, many people enjoy the museums that this relaxing island 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Santa Monica. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

Jekyll Island is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

You'll find museums around the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the funfilled destination of Santa Monica. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town 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.

A week in Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

Jekyll Island 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Santa Monica. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Santa Monica?

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 Jekyll Island or Santa Monica in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Santa Monica. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

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

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the shopping scene during these months.

Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Santa Monica in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Jekyll Island during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Jekyll Island is cooler than Santa Monica. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jekyll Island in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Santa Monica. The spring months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

In April, Jekyll Island is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 68°F (20°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Jekyll Island