A Travel Price Comparison for California Los Angeles vs. Santa Monica for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

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 Los Angeles and Santa Monica. 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.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Santa Monica

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

Los Angeles and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Santa Monica, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. Santa Monica is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities.

How is Los Angeles different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. 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 Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is notable for its theatre productions. However, Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or Santa Monica? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Los Angeles has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Santa Monica has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Music?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Santa Monica is not a live music destination.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is notable for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Santa Monica is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Santa Monica is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles and Santa Monica both offer amazing beaches.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

People visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Both Los Angeles and Santa Monica are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is notable for backpackers. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Santa Monica is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Los Angeles is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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

Santa Monica is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Santa Monica. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Los Angeles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is Los Angeles or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Los Angeles is somewhat walkable. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Los Angeles?

How long in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Santa Monica 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the funfilled town of Santa Monica. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Los Angeles is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Santa Monica. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The funfilled town of Santa Monica offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Los Angeles is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Monica. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

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

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or Santa Monica?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles or Santa Monica in the Summer?

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

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