A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Monica vs. Juneau for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Santa Monica or Juneau?

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

Should I visit Santa Monica or Juneau? 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. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Juneau

Juneau is a breathtaking, historic, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Santa Monica and Juneau: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Monica or Juneau?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Monica than Juneau, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Monica is better known for its nightlife and beaches, while Juneau is more popular for its museums, hiking, and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is more touristy than Juneau and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. Also, Santa Monica is famous for the Santa Monica Pier. Juneau is well known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and Gold Rush in 1880.

How is Santa Monica different from Juneau?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Juneau is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Juneau offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many museums focus on the history in the area, including the Gold Rush and the mining industry. You can visit several historic mines as well as the Last Chance Mining Museum. Other museums around town include the Juneau-Douglas City Museum, the Walter Soboleff Building, and the Alaska State Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. 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.

Is the Food Better in Santa Monica or Juneau? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Santa Monica and Juneau can be difficult as they are each high quality 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.

Juneau has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The seafood is superb and visitors will regret if they miss out on the salmon, halibut, and crab. There are many local restaurants and local chefs serving up the freshest caught fish. For the best seafood, head to the waterfront, and if you're looking for something other than seafood, the downtown is where you'll want to be.

Is Santa Monica or Juneau Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Juneau is not a good city for its evening party scene.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Juneau. There are a couple of bars and breweries, but most people relax in the evening.

Is Santa Monica or Juneau Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is an amazing town to visit for the beache. However, Juneau is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Monica. 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.

Juneau is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Monica or Juneau Better for Hiking?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

People visit Juneau specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 250 miles of hiking trails in the area, and this really is the best way to experience Alaska. The area is known for its wildlife, but there are also glacier hikes, meadows, mountains, and more. In downtown Juneau there's the Perseverance Trail, the Granite Creek Trail, and the Mount Roberts Trail. From the Mendenhall Visitor Center there's the East Glacier Loop Trail, the West Glacier Trail, and the Nugget Falls Trail. There are also trails on Douglas Island and many options just outside of town.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Monica or Juneau?

Both Santa Monica and Juneau are high quality shopping destinations.

Santa Monica is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Juneau. There's a mix of contemporary art and traditional artisan crafts. You'll find gift shops and art galleries around, particularly downtown and in the Mendenhall Valley business district. Visitors often enjoy buying art, wood carvings, jewelry, pottery, quilts, or dolls.

Is Santa Monica or Juneau Better for Families?

Santa Monica is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Juneau is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Santa Monica is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Juneau. Its is filled with adventure that the whole family will enjoy. There's whale watching, dog sled tours, helicopter rides, hiking, and the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway. This bucket-list destination will have an impact on kids and adults alike.

Is Santa Monica or Juneau Better for Couples?

Juneau is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Juneau makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy exploring and adventuring will be in awe of this destination. Glacier trekking, superb gardens, and romantic helicopter rides will leave you feeling like a contestant on "The Bachelor". There are also opportunities for romantic evenings out and cozy hotels where you can stay in.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Santa Monica or Juneau Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Juneau is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination with budget hotels and even a hostel or two.

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

Juneau is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

Public transit is generally limited in Juneau. You can only reach Juneau by boat or plane and there are three bus routes through town.

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 Juneau a more walkable city?

Santa Monica and Juneau both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Juneau is a very walkable destination. The downtown is very walkable and many places can be reached within a reasonable walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Juneau or Santa Monica?

How long in Santa Monica or Juneau?

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

Families should spend more time in Santa Monica than Juneau. 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 Juneau than Santa Monica. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Juneau that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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

One day in Santa Monica or Juneau?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Santa Monica. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Juneau, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this breathtaking city 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 Juneau?

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Juneau 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 Santa Monica or Juneau?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the breathtaking destination of Juneau. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Juneau?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the energetic destination of Santa Monica. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Juneau 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 Juneau, we can see that Santa Monica is more expensive. And not only is Juneau much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Juneau would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Juneau 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 Juneau.

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 Juneau Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Monica or Juneau?

Santa Monica has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Juneau. When comparing the sizes of Santa Monica and Juneau, 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 Juneau?

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 Juneau in the Summer?

Both Juneau and Santa Monica are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Juneau this time of year.

Santa Monica is much warmer than Juneau in the summer. The daily temperature in Santa Monica averages around 70°F (21°C) in July, and Juneau fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Juneau. In July, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Juneau. Santa Monica gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Juneau in the Autumn?

Both Juneau and Santa Monica during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Juneau for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Santa Monica is much warmer than Juneau. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santa Monica in October average around 67°F (20°C), and Juneau averages at about 42°F (6°C).

Juneau gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Santa Monica usually gets less rain in October than Juneau. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 7.8 inches (199 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Juneau in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Monica and Juneau. Many travelers come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Juneau in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Juneau can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Santa Monica is generally much warmer than Juneau. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 57°F (14°C), and Juneau fluctuates around 24°F (-4°C).

Juneau receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Juneau. Santa Monica gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 4.6 inches (116 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Juneau in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Santa Monica as well as Juneau. Many visitors come to Santa Monica in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Juneau for the natural beauty during these months.

Juneau can be very cold during spring. Santa Monica is much warmer than Juneau in the spring. The daily temperature in Santa Monica averages around 61°F (16°C) in April, and Juneau fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Santa Monica usually gets less rain in April than Juneau. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain, while Juneau receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Juneau and Santa Monica