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

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

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 Vernon 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.

Vernon

Vernon is a quiet, peaceful, and relaxing town. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

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

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Although Carmel-by-the-Sea and Vernon are popular destinations, Carmel-by-the-Sea has more sights and attractions for tourists. Carmel-by-the-Sea is very popular for its food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Vernon attracts visitors for its hiking. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. It is also well known for Pebble Beach Golf Course. Vernon is famous for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

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

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Vernon 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 Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a well-known place for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

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

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

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Vernon 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly place to visit. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

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 Vernon Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Vernon. 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 Vernon. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With food and shopping around the destination of Vernon, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With shopping and museums around the peaceful town of Vernon, 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quiet destination of Vernon. 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 Vernon?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Vernon 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

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

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

Vernon 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 Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon 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 Vernon because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is cooler than Vernon in the summer. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives less rain than Vernon. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Vernon 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. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In the autumn, Carmel-by-the-Sea is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea in October average around 62°F (17°C), and Vernon averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Vernon. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vernon. In January, Carmel-by-the-Sea is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Carmel-by-the-Sea average around 51°F (11°C), and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Carmel-by-the-Sea usually receives more rain than Vernon. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Carmel-by-the-Sea as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a little warmer than Vernon in the spring. The daily temperature in Carmel-by-the-Sea averages around 56°F (13°C) in April, and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Carmel-by-the-Sea usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Carmel-by-the-Sea gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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