A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pensacola vs. Los Angeles for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Pensacola or Los Angeles?

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 Pensacola and Los Angeles can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a entertaining, fun-filled, and active beach town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Pensacola and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than Pensacola, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Pensacola is popular for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood.

How is Pensacola different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is notable for its theatre productions. However, Pensacola is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Pensacola is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Pensacola or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

Los Angeles has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Pensacola has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Los Angeles just to party. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Pensacola is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Pensacola is not a live music destination.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Pensacola and Los Angeles.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Pensacola. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Los Angeles is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Los Angeles is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pensacola is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Pensacola is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Pensacola and Los Angeles are first-rate choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Pensacola is a very popular vacation destination. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

The beaches in Los Angeles are among the best in the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Los Angeles is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pensacola. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Los Angeles has plenty to offer. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Pensacola makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is notable for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is a world-class destination for students. However, Pensacola is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Pensacola is not popular with students.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Los Angeles is very good for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Los Angeles is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its ease of walking around.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable place. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

For even more information, also check out Is Pensacola Worth Visiting? and Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Both Pensacola and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than Pensacola. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pensacola, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Pensacola 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fun-filled beach town of Pensacola. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the active destination of Pensacola. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the entertaining beach town of Pensacola. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pensacola. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Pensacola. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola and Los Angeles, 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 Pensacola or Los Angeles?

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 Pensacola or Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Pensacola during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pensacola in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Los Angeles for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Pensacola is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pensacola in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pensacola or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Pensacola is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 69°F (21°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.

Should I visit Pensacola or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Los Angeles. The winter months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

Pensacola is cooler than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 51°F (10°C) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Pensacola receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pensacola usually gets more rain in January than Los Angeles. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pensacola or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Pensacola this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Pensacola is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pensacola in April average around 67°F (20°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Pensacola