A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sedona vs. Monterey for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Sedona or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Sedona or Monterey? 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.

Sedona

Sedona is a dramatic, scenic, and striking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Sedona and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sedona or Monterey?

Both Monterey and Sedona have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Sedona is more popular for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Monterey is known for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Sedona is popular for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Sedona different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sedona or Monterey?

Monterey is great for its historical sights. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

Is the Food Better in Sedona or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Sedona and Monterey can be an enjoyable experience.

Sedona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Monterey for the nightlife scene. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Sedona is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Sedona to choose from. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for the beache. However, Sedona is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for its Old Town?

Sedona is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Sedona has an old town worth visiting. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Sedona is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sedona or Monterey?

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Sedona specifically to go shopping. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Couples?

Sedona is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Sedona is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Sedona and Monterey are good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Sedona or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sedona and Monterey both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Sedona or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Monterey is a very walkable city. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable town. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Sedona Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Sedona?

How long in Sedona or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sedona and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than in Monterey. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Sedona, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Sedona 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 Monterey.

One day in Sedona or Monterey?

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Sedona or Monterey?

Sedona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Monterey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Sedona or Monterey?

Sedona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sedona, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. 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.

A week in Sedona or Monterey?

Sedona is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Sedona and Monterey, we can see that Monterey is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Sedona or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Sedona and Monterey, 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.