A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Sequoia National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Sequoia 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. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Saint Simons and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Saint Simons and Sequoia National Park are both popular with visitors, Sequoia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sequoia National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Saint Simons is known for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Saint Simons and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also home to the General Sherman tree. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Saint Simons different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Both Saint Simons and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Simons. 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 Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Saint Simons is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Saint Simons. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

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

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Saint Simons is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

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

People visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

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 Sequoia National Park?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Saint Simons is a very popular place for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Simons. 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, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.


Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park.

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, Sequoia National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sequoia National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park 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 Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

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

Is Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Sequoia National Park

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options 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.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park?

Both Saint Simons and Sequoia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Saint Simons than Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Saint Simons or Sequoia 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. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this magical national 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 Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island. It offers something for everyone.

Sequoia 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. 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 Sequoia National Park?

Saint Simons is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this impressive destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park?

Saint Simons is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park is $130. 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 Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

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

  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Sequoia National Park $7.84


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Simons and Sequoia National Park, we can see that Saint Simons is more expensive. And not only is Sequoia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sequoia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park Expensive?.


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