A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a overlooked, underrated, and vast park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking.

Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Saint Simons different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park have decent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a moderate island for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Saint Simons attract visitors from all over. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.


Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly island. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

Is Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable island. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, many people enjoy the that this underrated park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Saint Simons, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Saint Simons is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

You'll find around the overlooked destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Saint Simons?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Saint Simons


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Saint Simons Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Saint Simons change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Saint Simons $48
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun in the summer.

Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 66°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Winter?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

In January, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In January, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Spring?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the natural beauty.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


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