A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Miami vs. Saint Augustine for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Miami or Saint Augustine?

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 Miami and Saint Augustine can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Saint Augustine

Saint Augustine is a historic, notable, and colonial city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Miami and Saint Augustine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Miami and Saint Augustine are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Saint Augustine is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Saint Augustine and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Saint Augustine is popular for being the oldest consistently inhabited city in the United States.

How is Miami different from Saint Augustine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Saint Augustine is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Saint Augustine specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's history is brought to life with many monuments and museums. The Lightner Museum, the Old Jail Museum, the Lincolnville Museum, and Castillo De San Marcos are among the city's most notable sights. Also worth a visit is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Miami or Saint Augustine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Saint Augustine has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food scene is influenced by the long history of the city. You'll find flavors that are influenced by Spanish, African, and Native American cultures. There are several popular dishes around town such as fried shrimp, clam chowder, and shrimp and grits.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Nightlife?

Miami is very popular for nightlife. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Augustine has a few options to choose from. There are wineries, pubs, live music venues, and a number of activities that take advantage of the outdoor setting.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Music?

Miami is very popular for live music. However, Saint Augustine is not a live music destination.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Saint Augustine is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Resorts?

Miami is very popular for its resorts. However, Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Saint Augustine is not a resort destination.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Beaches?

Miami is very popular for its beaches. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

The beaches at Saint Augustine attract visitors from all over. Head to the beach to relax and swim. There are miles of sandy beach nearby, with some of the most popular being Ponte Vedra Beach, known for its golf courses, Vilano Beach, with its charming atmosphere, and the scenic Anastasia State Park.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for its Old Town?

Saint Augustine is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Miami does not have a historic old town.

Saint Augustine offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. As the longest running, continuously occupied city in the United States, the Historic Downtown is at the heart of the city. It's filled with quaint restaurants, historic hotels, and charming streets. You can take carriage rides or wander through the historic sites. Many of the buildings date back to the 1700s and offer a glimpse into Florida's past.

Miami does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Miami is very popular for shopping. Also, Saint Augustine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Saint Augustine is well-known for its shopping. The Historic Downtown has unique art galleries and boutiques. St. George Street is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir and Aviles Street is the oldest street in the United States. It's also filled with artisan boutiques. Plaza de la Constitución is known for its long running public market and it often has live entertainment.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Saint Augustine.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Augustine is very family-friendly. Kids will love the Alligator Farm but there's also a surprisingly fascinating archaeological park - The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The Colonial Quarter is fun for all ages as well, as is a visit to Fort Castillo De San Marcos. If you have some time, head outside of town to the Marineland Dolphin Adventure, which is well worth the trip.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Couples?

Both Miami and Saint Augustine are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Saint Augustine is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. The Ancient City has a charm that is unique in Florida. There is beautiful architecture and a historical atmosphere that is romantic and genuine. You can enjoy a carriage ride and then sample some local cuisine before heading to the beach.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Saint Augustine is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Saint Augustine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel in town as well as a couple of affordable inns.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Students?

Miami is a nice place to visit for students. However, Saint Augustine is not popular with students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Saint Augustine is not popular with students.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Miami is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Saint Augustine is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Augustine. The Old Town Trolley travels through the historic center. There's also a bus service through the region, but you really need a private vehicle to explore everything.

Is Miami or Saint Augustine a more walkable city?

Miami and Saint Augustine both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

Saint Augustine is a very walkable beach city. It's one of the more walkable cities in the area. Downtown, Uptown, and even near the beach have accessible areas with sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly zones.

For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Saint Augustine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Augustine or Miami?

How long in Miami or Saint Augustine?

It's fun to spend time in either Miami or Saint Augustine. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Augustine due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 3-4 days is enough time in Saint Augustine.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than Saint Augustine 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Saint Augustine, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this notable destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Augustine. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Miami is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This beach city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Saint Augustine is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Saint Augustine. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or Saint Augustine?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Miami. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the notable destination of Saint Augustine. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Saint Augustine?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Saint Augustine. When comparing the sizes of Miami and Saint Augustine, 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 Miami or Saint Augustine?

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 Miami or Saint Augustine in the Summer?

Both Saint Augustine and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Augustine for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is around the same temperature as Saint Augustine in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Saint Augustine fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Augustine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Saint Augustine during summer. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Augustine receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Augustine. It's quite rainy in Miami. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Saint Augustine. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Miami or Saint Augustine in the Autumn?

Both Saint Augustine and Miami during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint Augustine in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Miami is a little warmer than Saint Augustine. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Saint Augustine averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In Saint Augustine, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the autumn, Miami often gets more sunshine than Saint Augustine. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Augustine receives 214 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Saint Augustine. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Augustine is June to November.

Should I visit Miami or Saint Augustine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Saint Augustine. Many visitors come to Miami in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint Augustine for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Miami is generally much warmer than Saint Augustine. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 67°F (20°C), and Saint Augustine fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Saint Augustine during winter. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Augustine receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Saint Augustine. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Miami or Saint Augustine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Miami as well as Saint Augustine. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Saint Augustine because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Miami is a little warmer than Saint Augustine in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Saint Augustine fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Augustine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the spring, Miami often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Augustine. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Augustine receives 285 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Saint Augustine. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Saint Augustine receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Augustine.

Typical Weather for Saint Augustine and Miami