A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Newport vs. Santa Monica for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Newport or Santa Monica?

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 Santa Monica 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's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a lively, funfilled, and energetic town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Newport and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newport or Santa Monica?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Newport and Santa Monica are both popular with visitors, Santa Monica has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Santa Monica is more popular for its nightlife and beaches, while Newport is known for its museums, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is more touristy than Newport and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also home to the Santa Monica Pier. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

How is Newport different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica?

Newport is notable 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.

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Newport and Santa Monica.

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, Santa Monica makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Newport or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Santa Monica has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is Newport or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is terrific for the beach. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Santa Monica is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Newport. 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.

Is Newport or Santa Monica Better for its Old Town?

Newport is notable for its old town. However, Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. 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.

Santa Monica does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newport or Santa Monica?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Newport and Santa Monica.

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

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Newport or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Santa Monica is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Santa Monica is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Newport is 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.

Is Newport or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

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

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Newport or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Monica is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

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

Newport is a popular place for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

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.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. 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.

Is Newport or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Newport and Santa Monica are great 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.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Newport?

How long in Newport or Santa Monica?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Newport than Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica than Newport 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 Santa Monica.

One day in Newport or Santa Monica?

In Newport, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this seaside town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

In Santa Monica, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Santa Monica?

Newport is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Santa Monica, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Monica has to offer.

Five days in Newport or Santa Monica?

In Newport, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this coastal destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica?

Newport is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Monica. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Santa Monica, we can see that Santa Monica is more expensive. And not only is Newport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Newport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Newport 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 Newport.

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

Which is Bigger, Newport or Santa Monica?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Newport as well as Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Newport is generally around the same temperature as Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 73°F (23°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Newport usually gets more rain in July than Santa Monica. Newport gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Newport are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Newport because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

Newport is much colder than Santa Monica in the autumn. The daily temperature in Newport averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In October, Newport usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Newport gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newport or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Newport during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newport this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Newport in the winter. In the winter, Newport is much colder than Santa Monica. Typically, the winter temperatures in Newport in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Newport usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Newport gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newport or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newport and Santa Monica. Many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Newport is generally much colder than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Newport average around 48°F (9°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Newport usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Newport gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Newport