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

Should you visit Sarasota or Saint Simons?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Saint Simons. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches.

Sarasota and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Sarasota and Saint Simons are popular destinations, Saint Simons has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also well known for East Beach.

How is Sarasota different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Simons and Sarasota. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

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

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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 Sarasota or Saint Simons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Simons has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

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

Sarasota has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

There are nice resorts to choose from in both Sarasota and Saint Simons.

With a selection of resorts, Sarasota makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

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

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is great for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

Saint Simons is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Saint Simons is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Families?

Sarasota is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sarasota is a very family-friendly destination. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

Saint Simons is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota is a city 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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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

Is Sarasota or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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.

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either Sarasota or Saint Simons. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sarasota due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Simons.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Simons than Sarasota 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 Saint Simons.

One day in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this underrated city offers. 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.

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

Sarasota is a fun place to experience. 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.

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

In Sarasota, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. 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.

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Saint Simons?

Sarasota is a popular place to visit. 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.

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sarasota Expensive? and Is Saint Simons Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Saint Simons?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota and Saint Simons, 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 Sarasota or Saint Simons?

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 Sarasota or Saint Simons in the Summer?

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

In July, Sarasota is generally around the same temperature as Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 82°F (28°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the summer, Sarasota often gets less sunshine than Saint Simons. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 286 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. Sarasota receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Saint Simons. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

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

Sarasota is a little warmer than Saint Simons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Saint Simons during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Saint Simons. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Sarasota is June to November.

Should I visit Sarasota or Saint Simons in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Sarasota is a little warmer than Saint Simons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sarasota in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Saint Simons averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the winter, Sarasota often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Simons. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 191 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Saint Simons. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Saint Simons in the Spring?

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

In April, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 73°F (23°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Simons during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 285 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Saint Simons. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Sarasota