A Travel Price Comparison for California Monterey vs. Santa Monica for Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Monterey 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 Monterey 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santa Monica

Monterey and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Monterey or Santa Monica?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monterey. Although Monterey and Santa Monica are both popular with visitors, Monterey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Monterey is more touristy than Santa Monica and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Santa Monica is popular for

How is Monterey different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is notable for its sights and museums. However, Santa Monica does not have museums and landmarks.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Santa Monica does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Santa Monica is not a culinary destination.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Monterey. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Santa Monica is not a culinary destination.

Is Monterey or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is notable for nightlife and partying. However, Santa Monica is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Monterey has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Santa Monica is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Monterey or Santa Monica Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey
Santa Monica

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

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Santa Monica is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Monterey or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is a popular place for the beache. However, Santa Monica is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Santa Monica is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Monterey or Santa Monica?

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Santa Monica is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Monterey is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Santa Monica is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Monterey or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Monterey
Santa Monica

Both Monterey and Santa Monica are amazing family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

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 Monterey or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey and Santa Monica both superb destinations for a couple.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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.

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

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey and Santa Monica are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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.

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

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Santa Monica does not have public transit.


Is Monterey or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Monterey
Santa Monica

Monterey is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Santa Monica is not a walkable destination.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Santa Monica is not a walkable destination.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Santa Monica or Monterey?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Monterey is $170, 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 Monterey and Santa Monica in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Monterey $90
    Santa Monica $123
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Monterey $180
    Santa Monica $246
Compare Hotels in Monterey and Santa Monica

Looking for a hotel in Monterey 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 Monterey


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: Monterey Hotel Prices and Santa Monica Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Monterey $32
    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

Is it cheaper to fly into Monterey or Santa Monica?

Prices for flights to both Santa Monica and Monterey 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
    Monterey $56
    Santa Monica $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Monterey

For Monterey, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Guided Walking Food Tour with Tastings: $150

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 Father's Day Plated Dinner Cruise: $175
  • Marina del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Monterey $27
    Santa Monica $38

Tours and Activities in Monterey

For Monterey, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • San Fran Pacific Coast Self-Driving Tour App: $7.33
  • Self-Guided John Steinbeck Walking Tour with Audio: $7.99
  • Monterey Peninsula Drive: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Scenic 17-Mile Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Treasure Hunt The Ride - Family Adventure: $20
  • Macabre Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour: $26
  • Monterey Fisherman's Wharf & Presidio Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $49
  • Monterey Cannery Row: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $49
  • California: Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $50
  • Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour: $60
  • Cannery Row Kayak Tour: $65

Tours and Activities in Santa Monica

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

  • 15 Passengers Open Ocean/Harbor Cruise Party Boat Marina Del Rey: $129
  • 3-Hour Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Guided Tour : $72
  • 4.5 Hour Venice Beach Open Air Van Tour: $65
  • All Day Tour 6.5 Hour : $111
  • Bring-Your-Own-Food and Drinks Marina del Rey Boat Tour: $80
  • City Tour of Los Angeles from Torrance and El Segundo: $122
  • Dolphin Sighting Sunset Tour: $90
  • Exotic Tijuana Massage Tour in LA: $250
  • LA & Self-Guided Aerospace Legacy Audio Tour: $15
  • LA: Santa Monica & Venice Beach Guided Bike or eBike Tour: $72
  • Los Angeles Must-See Tour - Filming Locations, Crime Scenes, Celebrity Homes: $197
  • Los Angeles Premier Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Monterey $21
    Santa Monica $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Monterey

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Monterey:

  • Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $150

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


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

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


Which is Bigger, Monterey or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey or Santa Monica in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Monterey as well as Santa Monica. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Monterey is generally cooler than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 63°F (17°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Monterey usually gets more rain in July than Santa Monica. Monterey gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Monterey 63°F (17°C) 
    Santa Monica 70°F (21°C)

Should I visit Monterey or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Monterey are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene.

Monterey is cooler than Santa Monica in the autumn. The daily temperature in Monterey averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In October, Monterey usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Monterey gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Monterey 62°F (17°C) 
    Santa Monica 67°F (20°C)

Should I visit Monterey or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Monterey during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Monterey is cooler than Santa Monica. Typically, the winter temperatures in Monterey in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Monterey usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Monterey gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Monterey 51°F (11°C) 
    Santa Monica 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Monterey or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Monterey and Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

In April, Monterey is generally cooler than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Monterey average around 56°F (13°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Monterey usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Monterey gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Monterey 56°F (13°C) 
    Santa Monica 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Monterey

Monterey Santa Monica
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.7 inches (17 mm)
Feb 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm) 58°F (15°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm) 58°F (15°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Apr 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 61°F (16°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
May 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Jun 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 71°F (22°C) 0 inches (0 mm)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm) 67°F (20°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Nov 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)