A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Portland, Maine vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Portland, Maine or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Monterey? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a scenic, picturesque, and seaside coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Portland, Maine and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Portland, Maine and Monterey are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Portland, Maine attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Monterey is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Portland, Maine is famous for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Portland, Maine different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Monterey is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Portland, Maine or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

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.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine offers some nice hiking trails. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Monterey is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Monterey. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a decent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Monterey does not offer Christmas activities.

Many enjoy the Christmas activities while in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Monterey does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a popular place for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Monterey is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Portland, Maine or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable coastal town. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Portland, Maine?

How long in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Portland, Maine and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Portland, Maine. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Portland, Maine, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Portland, Maine 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 Monterey.

One day in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

The beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The nature-oriented destination of Monterey offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Portland, Maine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, Maine, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Monterey offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Portland, Maine is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Monterey is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Monterey. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Portland, Maine and Monterey, we can see that Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine Expensive? and Is Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Portland, Maine or Monterey?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Portland, Maine and Monterey, 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 Portland, Maine or Monterey?

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 Portland, Maine or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Portland, Maine as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Portland, Maine is a little warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Portland, Maine gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Portland, Maine are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the autumn, Portland, Maine is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Portland, Maine in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Monterey. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Portland, Maine during the winter are popular places to visit. The Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. In January, Portland, Maine is generally much colder than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Portland, Maine average around 21°F (-6°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Portland, Maine usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Portland, Maine gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Portland, Maine or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Portland, Maine and Monterey. Many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

Portland, Maine is much colder than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Portland, Maine averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Portland, Maine usually receives more rain than Monterey. Portland, Maine gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Portland, Maine