A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Monica vs. Columbia River Gorge for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Should I visit Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge? 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 Monica

Santa Monica is a active, lively, and funfilled town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier. Columbia River Gorge is famous for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

How is Santa Monica different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Santa Monica is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Santa Monica is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Is the Food Better in Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santa Monica. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Columbia River Gorge has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for nightlife and partying.

Santa Monica offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Santa Monica are among the best in the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular spot for hiking. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Santa Monica is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Santa Monica is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge make for a very good place to visit.

Santa Monica is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Columbia River Gorge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge is notable for backpackers. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Columbia River Gorge is a great region to visit for backpackers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Santa Monica is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbia River Gorge is a moderate region for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Santa Monica is very walkable. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable town. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Santa Monica?

How long in Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge. In our opinion, Santa Monica has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Santa Monica than Columbia River Gorge. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Santa Monica, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Santa Monica 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 Columbia River Gorge.

One day in Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Santa Monica. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Monica has to offer.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic region 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 Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Santa Monica is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Columbia River Gorge 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 Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Santa Monica for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the town of Santa Monica. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. 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 Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

The active destination of Santa Monica offers nightlife and food. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Columbia River Gorge 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Santa Monica Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

Santa Monica has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Columbia River Gorge. When comparing the sizes of Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge, 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 Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Santa Monica are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Santa Monica is generally around the same temperature as Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In July, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Santa Monica gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Santa Monica during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Santa Monica in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Santa Monica is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the autumn. The daily temperature in Santa Monica averages around 67°F (20°C) in October, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Santa Monica usually gets less rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Monica and Columbia River Gorge. Most visitors come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be very cold. In the winter, Santa Monica is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the winter temperatures in Santa Monica in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Santa Monica gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Santa Monica as well as Columbia River Gorge. The spring months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In April, Santa Monica is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 61°F (16°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Santa Monica usually gets less rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Santa Monica