A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Charleston for Food, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Saint Simons or Charleston?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charleston? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Charleston

Charleston is a charming, southern, and quaint coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Saint Simons and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Simons is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Saint Simons is well known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is Saint Simons different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Charleston is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Saint Simons has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Charleston has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons and Charleston offer a relatively similar set of notable luxury resort options.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

With a selection of resorts, Charleston makes a nice vacation spot. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Saint Simons and Charleston are very good choices.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Charleston is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Charleston offers plenty to see. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Charleston is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Saint Simons is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great destination for its Christmas activities. However, Saint Simons does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Charleston. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Saint Simons does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for its Christmas markets. However, Saint Simons does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Saint Simons does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Families?

Saint Simons is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint Simons is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Charleston is a family-friendly island. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Charleston is popular with students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charleston is a coastal town with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Saint Simons or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Both Saint Simons and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Saint Simons. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Saint Simons 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 Charleston.

One day in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this picturesque coastal 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.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Charleston 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.

Five days in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Saint Simons, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this picturesque 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.

A week in Saint Simons or Charleston?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Charleston, we can see that Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Charleston, 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 Saint Simons or Charleston?

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 Simons or Charleston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Charleston. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Simons is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 82°F (28°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Charleston. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Charleston. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Charleston. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Charleston. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In April, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Charleston. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Saint Simons