A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. San Diego for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Panama City or San Diego?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or San Diego, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Panama City

Panama City is a active, cosmopolitan, and fun-filled beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a relaxed, outdoorsy, and idyllic coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Panama City and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or San Diego?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Diego than Panama City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Panama City is well known for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. San Diego is well known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Also, San Diego is famous for The San Diego Zoo.

How is Panama City different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego and Panama City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or San Diego?

San Diego is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Panama City or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Panama City and San Diego can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Panama City. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

San Diego is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Panama City or San Diego has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Panama City know how to have a good time. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

The nightlife in San Diego has something for everybody. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great destination for its live music scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

San Diego has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Panama City and San Diego.

With a selection of resorts, Panama City makes a nice vacation spot. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beache. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches in San Diego are among the best in the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

The beaches at Panama City attract visitors from all over. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Panama City or San Diego?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Diego and Panama City.

Panama City offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

San Diego has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Families?

Panama City and San Diego are both world-class destinations for the whole family.

Panama City is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

San Diego is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Panama City is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an amazing coastal city to visit for students. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Students come from all over to stay in Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Is Panama City or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and San Diego.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Panama City or San Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a nice place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

For even more information, also check out Is Panama City Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or San Diego?

In either Panama City or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Panama City than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Panama City, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Diego than Panama City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Diego that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Panama City 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 San Diego.

One day in Panama City or San Diego?

You'll find food and shopping around the beach town of Panama City. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the fun-filled coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Panama City or San Diego?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the active destination of Panama City. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the outdoorsy destination of San Diego. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Panama City or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the cosmopolitan beach town of Panama City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach town has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the hip coastal city of San Diego. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or San Diego?

Panama City is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Panama City, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting San Diego. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Panama City and San Diego, we can see that Panama City is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Panama City Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Panama City and San Diego, 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 Panama City or San Diego?

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 Panama City or San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Panama City during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Panama City for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Panama City is a little warmer than San Diego in the summer. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Panama City. In the summer, Panama City often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Panama City gets 283 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and San Diego. Many visitors come to Panama City in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Panama City is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Panama City in October average around 71°F (22°C), and San Diego averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Panama City, it's very sunny this time of the year. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during autumn. Panama City gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Panama City usually receives more rain than San Diego. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Panama City or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Panama City as well as San Diego. Most visitors come to Panama City for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Panama City is generally cooler than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 52°F (11°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Panama City often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Panama City gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Panama City usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Panama City because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Panama City is a little warmer than San Diego in the spring. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Panama City. Panama City usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during spring. Panama City gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Panama City usually receives more rain than San Diego. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Panama City