A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Atlantic City vs. Santa Barbara for Nightlife, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

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 Atlantic City and Santa Barbara. 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.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a glitzy, flashy, and party-oriented city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Atlantic City travel costs.

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. The famous beauty of Santa Barbara is one of the main draws. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Atlantic City and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Barbara than Atlantic City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Barbara is better known for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Atlantic City is more popular for its nightlife. Atlantic City is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is known for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. Also, Santa Barbara is famous for The Old Mission Santa Barbara.

How is Atlantic City different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Santa Barbara. 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.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

Is the Food Better in Atlantic City or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Barbara is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Barbara makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Atlantic City and Santa Barbara.

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a coastal town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Santa Barbara has a few snorkeling spots. 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.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Santa Barbara is one of the main draws. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Santa Barbara is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known 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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Santa Barbara is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Atlantic City is a popular place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is well known for students. However, Atlantic City 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.

Atlantic City is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Atlantic City and Santa Barbara.

You'll find some public transit in Atlantic City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

While Santa Barbara offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Is Atlantic City or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Atlantic City and Santa Barbara both are superb when exploring on foot.

Atlantic City is very walkable. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Atlantic City?

How long in Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Atlantic City 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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the colorful destination of Atlantic City. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the wealthy destination of Santa Barbara. 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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Barbara. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful destination of Atlantic City. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the affluent destination of Santa Barbara. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the city of Atlantic City. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful coastal town of Santa Barbara. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Atlantic City and Santa Barbara, we can see that Santa Barbara 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 Atlantic City Expensive? and Is Santa Barbara Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Atlantic City and Santa Barbara, 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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara?

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 Atlantic City or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Atlantic City and Santa Barbara. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Atlantic City this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Atlantic City is generally a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 75°F (24°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

Atlantic City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Atlantic City usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Atlantic City gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Atlantic City as well as Santa Barbara. Many travelers come to Atlantic City for the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Atlantic City is cooler than Santa Barbara in the autumn. The daily temperature in Atlantic City averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in October than Santa Barbara. Atlantic City gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

Both Santa Barbara and Atlantic City are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Atlantic City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Atlantic City can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Atlantic City is much colder than Santa Barbara. Typically, the winter temperatures in Atlantic City in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Atlantic City usually receives around the same amount of rain as Santa Barbara. Atlantic City gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Atlantic City or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

Both Santa Barbara and Atlantic City during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Atlantic City for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Atlantic City is generally cooler than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Atlantic City average around 51°F (10°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Atlantic City usually gets more rain in April than Santa Barbara. Atlantic City gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Atlantic City