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

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

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 Kamloops 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 picturesque, quaint, and charming town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a laid-back, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. Other popular activities here include skiing, nightlife, and food. See Kamloops travel costs.

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

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Kamloops are both popular with visitors, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is known for its skiing, nightlife, and hiking. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. It is also home to Pebble Beach Golf Course. Kamloops is popular for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a town with good options for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

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

Kamloops is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kamloops. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Carmel-by-the-Sea attract visitors from all over. 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.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

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

Kamloops is a city with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Kamloops. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

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 Kamloops Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Kamloops is a good town for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Kamloops offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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 mostly limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

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

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

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

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Carmel-by-the-Sea, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Kamloops. 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 Kamloops 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.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With food and shopping around the destination of Kamloops, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy city of Kamloops, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Kamloops?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the nature-filled destination of Kamloops. 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 Kamloops?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Kamloops is a popular choice for travelers. This city 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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 Kamloops Expensive?.

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

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Kamloops, 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 Kamloops?

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 Kamloops in the Summer?

Both Kamloops and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

In July, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally cooler than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 63°F (17°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Kamloops. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Kamloops. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamloops for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Kamloops in the autumn. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 62°F (17°C) in October, and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kamloops. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Kamloops. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Kamloops in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kamloops can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the winter temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in January average around 51°F (11°C), and Kamloops averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Kamloops and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally a little warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 56°F (13°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

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