A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Carmel-by-the-Sea vs. Seattle for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

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

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 Seattle 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. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Seattle offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Seattle travel costs.

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

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Seattle are popular destinations, Seattle has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors for its beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Seattle is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

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.

Is Carmel-by-the-Sea or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for its shows and theatre. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

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

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Seattle.

Dining out in Carmel-by-the-Sea is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Seattle. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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

Seattle is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Seattle offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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 Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a well-known place for its music scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a live music destination.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is notable for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

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

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

Seattle is a popular spot for hiking. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and 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.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

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

Seattle 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly place to visit. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

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 Seattle Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is notable for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

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

Seattle is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

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 Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a well-known place for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

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

Seattle is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Seattle has a few public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

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.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea and Seattle both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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.

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

When visiting Seattle, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Seattle?

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.

When visiting Seattle, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Seattle?

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 food and shopping when visiting the laid-back big city of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a popular choice for travelers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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

Both Seattle and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In July, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Seattle. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Seattle and Carmel-by-the-Sea during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the autumn, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Seattle. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In January, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 51°F (11°C), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Seattle. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a little warmer than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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