A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Newport vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newport

Newport is a coastal, seaside, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a quaint, charming, and picturesque town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Newport. Although Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations, Newport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Newport is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Newport is famous for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. It is also well known for Thames Street. Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Newport different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Newport. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Newport is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Is the Food Better in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a great culinary experience. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Newport is a town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea are superb choices for a beach vacation.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for its Old Town?

Newport is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Newport is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Newport is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Newport is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

Newport is renowned for couples. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Newport is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newport is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Newport has a few public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea are superb when it comes to walkability.

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Newport Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Newport?

How long in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Newport, and 1-3 days is enough time in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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

Couples should spend more time in Newport than Carmel-by-the-Sea. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newport that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newport than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Newport.

One day in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With museums and nightlife around the historical town of Newport, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer.

Five days in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With nightlife and food around the seaside destination of Newport, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Newport is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Newport Expensive? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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 Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Newport as well as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Newport is a little warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea in the summer. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Newport usually gets more rain in July than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Autumn?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Newport is cooler than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newport in October average around 53°F (12°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Newport usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Winter?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Newport during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newport can be very cold during winter. In January, Newport is generally much colder than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 28°F (-2°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Newport usually gets more rain in January than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Carmel-by-the-Sea. The spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year.

Newport is cooler than Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Newport usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Newport