A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Big Sur vs. Vancouver for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Big Sur or Vancouver?

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 Vancouver can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

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

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Vancouver travel costs.

Big Sur and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Vancouver?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vancouver than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vancouver is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches and impressive beauty. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park.

How is Big Sur different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Vancouver has many famous sights for visitors. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Big Sur or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vancouver is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Vancouver has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Big Sur or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Vancouver for the nightlife scene. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Big Sur or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is great for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful 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.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Big Sur or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver specifically for its hiking. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

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 Vancouver?

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many people travel to Vancouver specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

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 Vancouver More Beautiful?

Big Sur is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

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.

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is Big Sur or Vancouver Better for Families?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

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 Vancouver Better for Couples?

Both Big Sur and Vancouver are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Vancouver has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Is Big Sur or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

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 Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Sur is not popular with students.

Vancouver is very popular with students. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Big Sur is not popular with students.

Is Big Sur or Vancouver Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Vancouver can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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

Is Big Sur or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Vancouver is a very easy city to get around on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Vancouver?

In either Big Sur or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver 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 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

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

One day in Big Sur or Vancouver?

You'll find food around the natural area of Big Sur. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Sur has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Vancouver is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city 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 Vancouver?

You'll find food around the remote destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Vancouver is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Big Sur or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic natural area of Big Sur. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Vancouver 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 Vancouver has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Vancouver?

Big Sur is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Vancouver. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Vancouver. 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Big Sur and Vancouver, we can see that Vancouver 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 Vancouver would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Vancouver 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 Vancouver Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Big Sur or Vancouver?

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 Big Sur or Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Vancouver for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Big Sur is around the same temperature as Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Big Sur in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In July, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Big Sur or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Big Sur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Big Sur is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 62°F (17°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Big Sur usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Vancouver in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Vancouver. The winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

It's quite cold in Vancouver in the winter. Big Sur is much warmer than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Big Sur or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Vancouver. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vancouver for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Big Sur is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Big Sur in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Big Sur usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Big Sur