A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Barbara vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

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

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Las Vegas? 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.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a wealthy, opulent, and pristine coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a entertaining, sexy, and glamourous entertainment capital. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums.

Santa Barbara and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

You'll generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than Santa Barbara. Las Vegas is bigger than Santa Barbara, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Las Vegas is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Santa Barbara is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Las Vegas is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is known for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. Also, Las Vegas is famous for The Strip. Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views.

How is Santa Barbara different from Las Vegas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Las Vegas and Santa Barbara. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Santa Barbara or Las Vegas.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

Many visitors head to Las Vegas specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Santa Barbara is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Las Vegas draw crowds from around the world. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

Santa Barbara is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Las Vegas is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Las Vegas is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Las Vegas is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is renowned for its music scene. However, Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

In Las Vegas you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is renowned for its resorts. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Las Vegas is a great choice. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Santa Barbara. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a moderate coastal town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is very popular for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Santa Barbara offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Santa Barbara to see the historical old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Las Vegas does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Santa Barbara is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

Both Santa Barbara and Las Vegas are amazing shopping destinations.

Santa Barbara is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Las Vegas. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Families?

Santa Barbara is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Santa Barbara and Las Vegas make for a amazing place to visit.

Santa Barbara makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

For those traveling as a couple, Las Vegas has plenty to offer. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is notable for students. However, Las Vegas is not popular with students.

Many students visit Santa Barbara. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Las Vegas is not popular with students.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its public transit. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for times when you don't have a car.

Santa Barbara has a few public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Public transit is mostly limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Is Santa Barbara or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is notable for its walkability. Also, Las Vegas is not as famous, but is still a good entertainment capital to visit for its high level of walkability.

Santa Barbara is very walkable. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable place. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

For even more information, also check out Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or Santa Barbara?

How long in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

Both Santa Barbara and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Las Vegas than in Santa Barbara. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Santa Barbara, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

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

Couples should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Las Vegas. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Santa Barbara that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Las Vegas 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal town of Santa Barbara. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Las Vegas is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the wealthy destination of Santa Barbara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Las Vegas. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the pristine coastal town of Santa Barbara. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Las Vegas is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

Santa Barbara is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Santa Barbara Expensive? and Is Las Vegas Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Barbara or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Santa Barbara. When comparing the sizes of Santa Barbara and Las Vegas, 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.