A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Juneau for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Saint Simons or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Juneau? 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 laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Juneau

Juneau is a scenic, breathtaking, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Saint Simons and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Juneau?

Both Juneau and Saint Simons have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm, while Juneau attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Juneau is famous for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880.

How is Saint Simons different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Juneau 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 Juneau?

Juneau is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

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 Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Juneau can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Juneau has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Saint Simons or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Saint Simons or Juneau has a better nightlife scene.

Saint Simons is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Juneau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Saint Simons or Juneau Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its resorts. However, Juneau is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Juneau is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a well-known place for the beache. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Juneau?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Juneau and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Juneau is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Is Saint Simons or Juneau Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Juneau.

Saint Simons is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Juneau is very family-friendly. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Saint Simons or Juneau Better for Couples?

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

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

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 Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Juneau is a great destination for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Juneau. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

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

Juneau is a city 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 Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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

Is Saint Simons or Juneau a more walkable city?

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

Juneau is very walkable. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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 Juneau Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Juneau?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Juneau 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 Juneau.

One day in Saint Simons or Juneau?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Juneau, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this breathtaking city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Juneau?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Juneau?

Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Juneau is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Juneau, 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 Juneau Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Juneau?

Juneau has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Juneau. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

In the summer, Saint Simons is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Juneau averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 179 hours of full sun in the summer.

Juneau 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 more rain than Juneau. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Juneau in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Juneau. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 42°F (6°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 Juneau. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 69 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Juneau. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Juneau in the Winter?

Both Juneau and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Juneau in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Juneau can get quite cold in the winter. Saint Simons is much warmer than Juneau in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Juneau during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Juneau receives 87 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In January, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Juneau. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Juneau in the Spring?

Both Juneau and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Juneau for the natural beauty during these months.

Juneau can be very cold during spring. In the spring, Saint Simons is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Juneau averages at about 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Juneau. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Juneau receives 185 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Juneau. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Saint Simons