A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Saint Simons for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Miami or Saint Simons?

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 Simons can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Miami and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Miami or Saint Simons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Miami and Saint Simons 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 Simons is known for its museums, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Saint Simons 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 Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Miami different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Simons 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 Simons?

Miami
Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a island with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Simons has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Miami is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Music?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Saint Simons 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 Simons is not a live music destination.


Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Miami. 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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Miami
Saint Simons

Saint Simons is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Miami is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Saint Simons?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Saint Simons 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 Simons is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Families?

Miami
Saint Simons

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Saint Simons.

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 Simons is very family-friendly. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

Miami
Saint Simons

Both Miami and Saint Simons are great 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 Simons is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.


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

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Miami or Saint Simons Better for Students?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is a popular place for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island 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 quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.


Is Miami or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Miami
Saint Simons

Miami is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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 Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Miami?

How long in Miami or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either Miami or Saint Simons. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Simons due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Simons.

Families should spend more time in Miami than Saint Simons. 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 Simons. 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 Simons 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.


  • How many days in Miami or Saint Simons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Saint Simons 2-4

One day in Miami or Saint Simons?

Each neighborhood in Miami has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island 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 Simons?

Miami 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Miami or Saint Simons?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the high energy big city of Miami. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Saint Simons is a fun place to experience. Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Simons?

Miami is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Saint Simons is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Saint Simons or Miami?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, while the average daily cost in Saint Simons is $176. 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 Miami and Saint Simons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Saint Simons $100
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Saint Simons $200
Compare Hotels in Miami and Saint Simons

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Saint Simons? 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 Miami


Hotels in Saint Simons


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: Miami Hotel Prices and Saint Simons Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Saint Simons $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Everglades Holiday Park Airboat Ride with Roundtrip Transfer: $70
  • Everglades National Park & Airboat tour with Roundtrip Transfer: $70
  • From Miami - Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Airport: $265
  • From Miami Airport - Private Transfer to Hotels and Homes: $265
  • From Miami Beach: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry and Hotel Transfers: $289
  • From Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Show & Bus Transfer: $55
  • From Everglades Wildlife Show, Airboat & Bus Transfer: $40
  • Hotel's To Port & Airport Transfer: $95
  • MIA: Transfer to Miami Beach, Aventura, Coral Gables: $150
  • Miami & Key West: One-Way Transfer by Motor Coach Bus: $62
  • Miami Airport Private Transfer ( Up to 14 passengers): $80
  • Miami Int'l Airport: Private 1-Way Transfer to Miami Port: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Saint Simons?

Prices for flights to both Saint Simons and Miami 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
    Miami $41
    Saint Simons $48
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

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

  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • South Beach Donut & Gelato Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Wynwood Street Art, Culture, Donuts & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • Little Havana Street Food Tour with Enthusiastic Guide: $69
  • Cuban Food Tour Of Little Havana: $70
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Food Tour of Miami's South Beach: $79
  • Mango's Dinner and Show Ticket: $98
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $124
  • 3 Hour Regional Indian Cooking Class and Dining Experience in Miami: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Saint Simons $16

Tours and Activities in Miami

Here are a few actual costs in Miami for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Haunted a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour : $5.92
  • Little Havana Smartphone guided Audio App Solo Walking Tour: $6.75
  • Haunted Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $7.27
  • Miami Beach: Self-Guided Walking Tour With Audio Guide: $7.27
  • Private Sightseeing Audio Walking Tour in Miami Beach: $7.99
  • Sights of Downtown a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Miami: $8.70
  • Miami Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Big Cypress National Preserve Audio Tour Guide: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Little Havana: $10
  • Audio Tour of Downtown, South Beach, and Wynwood: $11
  • Miami Marlins Baseball Game Ticket at loandepot Park: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Saint Simons $60
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Miami Bar Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100


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

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 Simons Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Miami or Saint Simons?

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

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 Simons in the Summer?

Both Saint Simons and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Miami or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

Both Saint Simons and Miami during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

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

In Saint Simons, 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 Simons. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons 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 Simons. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C)

Should I visit Miami or Saint Simons in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Saint Simons. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Miami or Saint Simons in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Miami as well as Saint Simons. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. 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 Simons. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 285 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Saint Simons. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Miami

Miami Saint Simons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)