A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Hope for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Hope

Hope is a local, small, and friendly town. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Hope travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pebble Beach Golf Course
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Hope, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Carmel-by-the-Sea is better known for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Hope is more popular for its hiking. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Hope and is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for Pebble Beach Golf Course. Hope is well known for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo."

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hope and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very good for its historical sights. However, Hope is not known for its sights and museums.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.


Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Hope is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hope. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Nightlife?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Carmel-by-the-Sea specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hope. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its beaches. However, Hope is not a beach destination.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Hope is not a beach destination.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Hiking?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Hope is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Hope is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for shopping. However, Hope is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hope has some nice offerings. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Families?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Hope is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Hope is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Hope makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful area.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Hope is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hope is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.


Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Hope is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Hope

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town for its walkability. However, Hope is not known for its high level of walkability.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

Hope is generally not very walkable. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.

For even more information, also check out Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting? and Is Hope Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hope or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope. In our opinion, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Hope. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hope.

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Hope. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Hope 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.


  • How many days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 1-3 
    Hope 2-3

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With around the destination of Hope, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.


A weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the local town of Hope, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the small destination of Hope. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Because Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Hope is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Hope or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea Prices
    USA Prices
    Hope Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Hope $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Carmel-by-the-Sea is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Hope is $0.00. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Hope -
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Hope $0.00
Compare Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope

Looking for a hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea


Hotels in Hope


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Carmel-by-the-Sea Hotel Prices and Hope Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $125
    Hope -

Is it cheaper to fly into Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Prices for flights to both Hope and Carmel-by-the-Sea change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $264
    Hope $38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

  • Old Monterey Walking Food Tour: $164

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Hope -

Tours and Activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Carmel-by-the-Sea are as follows:

  • 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour from Monterey & Carmel: $15
  • 2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour: $169
  • 3-Hour Monterey, Cannery Row and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour: $229
  • 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour from Monterey: $75
  • 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey: $85
  • Big Sur Sightseeing Tour: $224
  • Big Sur's Old Coast Road eBike Tour: $250
  • Carmel Drive Tour: $295
  • Carmel Point: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour: $149
  • Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive: $30

Tours and Activities in Hope

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hope.

  • From Vancouver: 2-Day Kelowna Wine, Lake, and Farm Tour: $296
  • From Vancouver: 3-Day Tour to Manning Park, Nelson & Osoyoos: $379

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Hope -

Sample the Local Flavors in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

  • Carmel Valley Village: Wine Tasting Tours in a 1970 VW bus.: $139
  • Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus: $139
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $159
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $159
  • Morning Half Day Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour : $236
  • Carmel Valley Wine Tour's Premium Package: $245
  • Afternoon Half-day Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $249


When comparing the travel costs between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope, we can see that Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive? and Is Hope Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

Hope has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope, 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Hope. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Hope for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Carmel-by-the-Sea is around the same temperature as Hope. Typically, the summer temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Hope averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Hope. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 63°F (17°C) 
    Hope 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope in the Autumn?

Both Hope and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hope because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally much warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 62°F (17°C), and Hope fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hope. In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Hope. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 62°F (17°C) 
    Hope 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope in the Winter?

Both Hope and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hope this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hope in the winter. Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Hope in the winter. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Hope fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Hope gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in January than Hope. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 51°F (11°C) 
    Hope 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Hope in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Hope. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year.

In the spring, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a little warmer than Hope. Typically, the spring temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Hope averages at about 9°C (49°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Hope. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 56°F (13°C) 
    Hope 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Hope and Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea Hope
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 3°C (37°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Feb 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm) 5°C (41°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm) 7°C (44°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 9°C (49°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 15°C (60°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 15°C (59°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm) 10°C (51°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 6°C (43°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm) 3°C (37°F) 217 mm (8.5 in)