A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Lewisburg vs. Santa Monica for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg or Santa Monica? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a charming, historical, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping and museums.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a funfilled, energetic, and active town. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Lewisburg and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Santa Monica Pier


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Lewisburg and Santa Monica are popular destinations, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Lewisburg attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Santa Monica is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier. Lewisburg is famous for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Both Lewisburg and Santa Monica have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

Santa Monica offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Lewisburg or Santa Monica? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Monica makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Santa Monica is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is an amazing town to visit for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Monica. 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.


Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Lewisburg is a popular place for its old town. However, Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Lewisburg to see the old town. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is well known for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Santa Monica is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.


Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Santa Monica frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.

Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a popular place for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Santa Monica. 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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Lewisburg or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Lewisburg is a popular place for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Lewisburg is a good town to visit for students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.


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

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Lewisburg is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

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 Lewisburg or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Santa Monica

Santa Monica is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

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

Families should spend more time in Santa Monica than Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg. 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 Lewisburg 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.


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Santa Monica? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Santa Monica 1-3

One day in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

In Lewisburg, many people enjoy the museums and shopping that this quaint town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Santa Monica. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Monica has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Lewisburg is a fun place to experience. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Santa Monica. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

You'll find museums and shopping around the quaint destination of Lewisburg. 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 lively town of Santa Monica. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Lewisburg is a popular place to visit. 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.

Santa Monica is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Santa Monica or Lewisburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $136, while the average daily cost in Santa Monica is $210. 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 Lewisburg and Santa Monica in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Santa Monica $123
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Santa Monica $246
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Santa Monica

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Santa Monica? 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 Lewisburg


Hotels in Santa Monica


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: Santa Monica Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Santa Monica $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santa Monica

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Santa Monica:

  • Santa Monica to Long Beach Airport (LGB) - Deparure Private Transfer: $80
  • Santa Monica to Los Angeles Airport Departure Private Transfer: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Prices for flights to both Santa Monica and Lewisburg 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
    Lewisburg $34
    Santa Monica $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santa Monica

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Santa Monica.

  • Flavors of Venice Beach Food Tour: $96
  • Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise from Marina del Rey: $124
  • Marina del Rey Christmas Day Buffet Dinner Cruise: $175
  • Marina del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $175
  • Marina del Rey Father's Day Plated Dinner Cruise: $222

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Santa Monica $38

Tours and Activities in Santa Monica

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

  • LA & Self-Guided Aerospace Legacy Audio Tour: $15
  • Explore Malibu's Coast: PCH & Beyond - Self Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Santa Monica Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $22
  • Santa Monica Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour on the Pier: $30
  • Santa Monica Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Santa Monica Downtown Walking Tour: $40
  • Santa Monica Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $44
  • Virtual Reality Escape Room Experience: $45
  • Onewheel Board Experience: $60
  • Los Angeles: Latin Dance Club Crawl Experience: $65
  • 4.5 Hour Venice Beach Open Air Van Tour: $65
  • Sights and Sips Cruise Tour in Marina del Rey: $69

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Santa Monica $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Santa Monica

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

  • Private Vintage VW Hippie Tour to Malibu with wine tasting: $195
  • Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting: $199
  • Charcuterie Board and Wine Tasting in Marina Bay: $300


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lewisburg and Santa Monica, we can see that Santa Monica is more expensive. And not only is Lewisburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lewisburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg.

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


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg and Santa Monica, 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 Lewisburg or Santa Monica?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lewisburg or Santa Monica in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lewisburg and Santa Monica. The summer months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

In the summer, Lewisburg is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lewisburg in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 70°F (21°C).

Lewisburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C) 
    Santa Monica 70°F (21°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lewisburg as well as Santa Monica. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the shopping scene.

In October, Lewisburg is generally much colder than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 54°F (12°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in October than Santa Monica. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C) 
    Santa Monica 67°F (20°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Lewisburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lewisburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lewisburg. Lewisburg is much colder than Santa Monica in the winter. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 27°F (-3°C) in January, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C) 
    Santa Monica 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Santa Monica in the Spring?

Both Santa Monica and Lewisburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lewisburg in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Lewisburg is much colder than Santa Monica. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lewisburg in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in April than Santa Monica. Lewisburg gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C) 
    Santa Monica 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Lewisburg

Lewisburg Santa Monica
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 58°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 58°F (15°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 61°F (16°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 71°F (22°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 67°F (20°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)