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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Newport?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Newport? 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. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Newport

Newport is a historical, charming, and coastal town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Saint Simons and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Newport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newport than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newport is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Saint Simons is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and small town charm. Saint Simons is well known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Newport is well known for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history. Also, Newport is famous for Thames Street.

How is Saint Simons different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Simons
Newport

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

Newport offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.

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 Newport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Newport

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Newport 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.

Newport has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is Saint Simons or Newport Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Newport

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

Newport has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

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 Newport Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Newport

Saint Simons is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Newport is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Newport Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Newport

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Saint Simons and Newport are great 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.

Newport is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is Saint Simons or Newport Better for its Old Town?

Saint Simons
Newport

Newport is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Newport. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Newport Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Newport

Saint Simons is very good for its hiking trails. However, Newport is not a hiking destination.

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.

Newport is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Newport?

Saint Simons
Newport

Shopping is a popular activity in both Newport 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.

Newport is well-known for its shopping. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is Saint Simons or Newport Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Newport

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

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, Newport is very family-friendly. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.

Is Saint Simons or Newport Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Newport

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

Newport makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Newport

Newport is a popular place for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Newport, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.

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

Is Saint Simons or Newport a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Newport

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

Newport is very walkable. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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 Newport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Newport or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Newport?

In either Saint Simons or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than Saint Simons because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Newport 2-5

One day in Saint Simons or Newport?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Newport, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming 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 Newport?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Simons has to offer.

Newport 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 Newport?

Saint Simons 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.

In Newport, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this coastal 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 Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

Newport is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, Newport 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 Newport is $159. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Newport

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Newport? 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 Newport


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 and Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Newport $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Newport

Also for Newport, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Newport Cruise Port to Boston city hotels: $87
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Boston Logan Airport (BOS) : $87
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence Airport (PVD): $49
  • Private Transfer from Newport Port to Providence city Hotels: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Newport

For Newport, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Newport $17

Tours and Activities in Newport

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Downtown Historic Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Newport Downtown Historic Audio APP Self Guided Smart Phone Tour: $6.75
  • Newport's Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Cliff Walk Gilded Age Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.49
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Ocean Drive Historic District Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Discover Newport's Grandeur: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Newport, Rhode Island: Scenic Self-Driving Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Newport $14


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Newport, 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 Newport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Newport?

Newport has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Saint Simons or Newport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Newport. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 82°F (28°C), and Newport fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the summer, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Newport. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Newport in the Autumn?

Both Newport and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Newport in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Newport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Newport during autumn. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Newport. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Newport in the Winter?

Both Newport and Saint Simons during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Newport can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Saint Simons is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Newport averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Newport. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Newport. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Newport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Newport. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Newport because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Newport fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Newport during spring. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Newport. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)