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

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

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 Moncton 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 quaint, charming, and picturesque town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a cultural, quaint, and compact city. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Moncton travel costs.

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

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Moncton are popular destinations, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more sights and attractions for tourists. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. It is also well known for Pebble Beach Golf Course. Moncton is famous for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Carmel-by-the-Sea or Moncton.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.


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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Moncton are reasonable 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 Moncton. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for it's beautiful 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.

Moncton is not a beach destination.


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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its shopping areas. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Moncton is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

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

With stunning beauty, Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors from all around. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Moncton is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

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 Moncton Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Moncton offer reasonable 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 Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Moncton

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.


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

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

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

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Moncton 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 Moncton.

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

Couples should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Moncton. 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 Moncton 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 Moncton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 1-3 
    Moncton 1-2

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With food and shopping around the destination of Moncton, 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 Moncton?

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer.

With shopping and museums around the cultural city of Moncton, 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 Moncton?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint destination of Moncton. 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 Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Moncton 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Moncton 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
    Moncton Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Moncton $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Carmel-by-the-Sea is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Moncton is $148. 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 Moncton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Moncton $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Moncton $58
Compare Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Moncton

Looking for a hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Moncton? 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 Moncton


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 Moncton Hotel Prices.

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

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

Prices for flights to both Moncton 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
    Moncton $97

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 -
    Moncton $79

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 Moncton

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

  • Unexpected Downtown Food and Drink Tour: $68

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Moncton $4.54

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Moncton, we can see that Moncton 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 Moncton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Moncton 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 Moncton Expensive?.


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

Moncton 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 Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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 Moncton in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Moncton. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Moncton for the family-friendly experiences.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than Moncton in the summer. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in July than Moncton. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 63°F (17°C) 
    Moncton 19°C (66°F)

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

Both Moncton and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Moncton averages at about 8°C (46°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In October, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Moncton. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 62°F (17°C) 
    Moncton 8°C (46°F)

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

Both Moncton and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Moncton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Moncton can be very cold during winter. In January, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 51°F (11°C), and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 51°F (11°C) 
    Moncton -8°C (17°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Moncton. Most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Moncton in the spring. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Moncton. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 56°F (13°C) 
    Moncton 3°C (38°F)

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea Moncton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) -8°C (17°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Feb 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm) -8°C (18°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm) -3°C (27°F) 117 mm (4.6 in)
Apr 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm) 3°C (38°F) 101 mm (4 in)
May 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 10°C (50°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 16°C (60°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 19°C (66°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 13°C (56°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm) 8°C (46°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Nov 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 2°C (36°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm) -5°C (23°F) 126 mm (5 in)