A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

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 Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. Other popular activities here include food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico 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. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Carmel-by-the-Sea different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

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

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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a decent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for the beach. However, Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options 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.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

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 Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea
Roswell, New Mexico

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable town. The historic district is compact and walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

How long in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

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

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

One day in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 museums around the destination of Roswell, New Mexico, 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Carmel-by-the-Sea for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. 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 museums and food around the quirky town of Roswell, New Mexico, 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Because Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

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. This town offers something for everyone. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico is a popular choice for travelers. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico? 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 Roswell, New Mexico


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 Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $125
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

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 -
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

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 Whale Watching Tour from Monterey: $75
  • 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey: $85
  • 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
  • Carmel Walk Guided Tour Carmel by the Sea: $40
  • Carmel on Foot Audio Tour: Courtyards, Artists & Ocean Views: $9.99
  • Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour: $75
  • Carmel-by-the-Sea 2.5-3 Hour Electric Bike Tour: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

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:

  • Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus: $139
  • Carmel Valley Village: Wine Tasting Tours in a 1970 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
  • Carmel Valley Wine Tour's Premium Package: $245


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


Which is Bigger, Carmel-by-the-Sea or Roswell, New Mexico?

Roswell, New Mexico has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.