A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Petersburg vs. Big Sur for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

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 Saint Petersburg and Big Sur can help you decide which place is right for you.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a underrated, relaxed, and fun-filled coastal city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Saint Petersburg and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Petersburg than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Petersburg is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Saint Petersburg is well known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is famous for St. Pete Beach. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Saint Petersburg different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and Saint Petersburg. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

Saint Petersburg is great for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Saint Petersburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Petersburg is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Petersburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Saint Petersburg is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint Petersburg has a few options to choose from. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Saint Petersburg is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Saint Petersburg has a few great resort options. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Saint Petersburg is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is great for hiking. However, Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Saint Petersburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

Saint Petersburg is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Saint Petersburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Families?

Saint Petersburg is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Petersburg. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Big Sur is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Petersburg is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Saint Petersburg or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Saint Petersburg is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Saint Petersburg is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

Big Sur is not a walkable coastal city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Petersburg and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Big Sur. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Saint Petersburg that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg than Big Sur 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 Saint Petersburg.

One day in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

In Saint Petersburg, 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 coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find food around the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

In Saint Petersburg, 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 Saint Petersburg has to offer.

You'll find food around the remote natural area of Big Sur. If you have a weekend, this natural area makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

Saint Petersburg 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.

Big Sur is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Petersburg. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Petersburg. 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.

Big Sur is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Petersburg Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Saint Petersburg or Big Sur?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In July, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Saint Petersburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the winter for the cuisine.

In the winter, Saint Petersburg is a little warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Petersburg in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Big Sur. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Saint Petersburg in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Saint Petersburg is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 73°F (23°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Saint Petersburg usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Saint Petersburg is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Saint Petersburg