A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Big Sur vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Big Sur and Bryce Canyon National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food. See Big Sur travel costs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. Many visitors also come to Bryce Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Bryce Canyon National Park travel costs.

Big Sur and Bryce Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Big Sur. Although Big Sur and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Big Sur has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Big Sur is more popular for its food and beaches, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and shopping. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Big Sur and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Big Sur is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. It is also home to Bixby Bridge.

How is Big Sur different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bryce Canyon National Park and Big Sur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Neither Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Big Sur. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Is the Food Better in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Sur is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Big Sur has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Bryce Canyon National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Big Sur There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a great natural area for the beach. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Big Sur is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Bryce Canyon National Park is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of fantastic scenery and beauty in both Big Sur and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Bryce Canyon National Park as well. This park is one of the most uniquely beautiful, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the colors glow and the hoodoos have a magical quality.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Bryce Canyon National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Big Sur is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bryce Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Bryce Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bryce Canyon National Park is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Bryce Canyon National Park is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable park. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

Big Sur is not a walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Big Sur Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In either Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Big Sur because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bryce Canyon National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Big Sur than Bryce Canyon National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Sur that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Big Sur 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.

One day in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this scenic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bryce Canyon National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bryce Canyon National Park has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This natural area offers something for everyone.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bryce Canyon National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful natural area of Big Sur. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Bryce Canyon National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Big Sur Expensive? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive?.