A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chattanooga vs. Big Sur for Couples, Hiking, Food, and Families

Should you visit Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Chattanooga or Big Sur? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a bustling, outdoorsy, and thriving city. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Chattanooga travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches. See Big Sur travel costs.

Chattanooga and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chattanooga. Although Chattanooga and Big Sur are popular destinations, Chattanooga has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chattanooga is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping, while Big Sur attracts visitors for its beaches and impressive beauty. Big Sur is more touristy than Chattanooga and is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Chattanooga is famous for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas. It is also well known for Rock City.

How is Chattanooga different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and Chattanooga. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Chattanooga is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chattanooga. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Chattanooga or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Dining out at restaurants in both Chattanooga and Big Sur can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chattanooga area. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Sur. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Chattanooga is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Big Sur is a great destination for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Big Sur is considered a top beach destination. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.


Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

If you're looking to go hiking, Chattanooga and Big Sur both have great trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Chattanooga is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Chattanooga has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Chattanooga or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

Chattanooga is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Families?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Chattanooga or Big Sur.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Chattanooga is a nice destination for couples. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.


Is Chattanooga or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Chattanooga is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Chattanooga. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Chattanooga or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Chattanooga
Big Sur

Chattanooga is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Chattanooga Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Chattanooga?

How long in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chattanooga and Big Sur. In our opinion, Chattanooga has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chattanooga than Big Sur. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Chattanooga, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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


  • How many days in Chattanooga or Big Sur? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chattanooga 2-3 
    Big Sur 1-3

One day in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

In Chattanooga, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking natural area of Big Sur. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

In Chattanooga, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chattanooga has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Big Sur. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This natural area offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

The remote natural area of Big Sur offers food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Chattanooga or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chattanooga. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Chattanooga. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Big Sur or Chattanooga?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Chattanooga Prices
    USA Prices
    Big Sur Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chattanooga $225
    Big Sur $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Chattanooga is $225, while the average daily cost in Big Sur is $0.00. 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 Chattanooga and Big Sur in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chattanooga $92
    Big Sur $165
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chattanooga $184
    Big Sur $330
Compare Hotels in Chattanooga and Big Sur

Looking for a hotel in Chattanooga or Big Sur? 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 Chattanooga


Hotels in Big Sur


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: Chattanooga Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chattanooga $35
    Big Sur -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Chattanooga

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Chattanooga:


  • Chattanooga Zoo (for 2)
    $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chattanooga

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chattanooga:

  • Private One Way Transfer from/to Chattanooga Airport and Hotels: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Chattanooga or Big Sur?

Prices for flights to both Big Sur and Chattanooga 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
    Chattanooga $103
    Big Sur -

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chattanooga

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Chattanooga.

  • Historic Southside Food Tour in Chattanooga: $99
  • Downtown Chattanooga Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • ChattaBrunch Food Tour: $119
  • Southside Food Tour with Lunch: $129
  • Downtown Food Tour with 3-4 Tastings: $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chattanooga $52
    Big Sur -

Tours and Activities in Chattanooga

Here are a few actual costs in Chattanooga for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bridge to Fun a Chattanooga Rydable Experience : $69
  • Bridge to Fun: A Chattanooga 1 Hour Rydable Experience: $69
  • Chattanooga "C-Block Prison Break" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga "Locker Room Lockdown: Mascot Rescue" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $40
  • Chattanooga "Secret Agent" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $40
  • Chattanooga "The Inheritance Mystery Room" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga "Vaccine: Search For The Zombie Cure" Escape Room Admission Ticket: $38
  • Chattanooga Blues to Bridges Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $24
  • Chattanooga Crypts and Chills Ghost Tour: $32
  • Chattanooga's North Shore & Coolidge Park Guided Segway Tour: $75
  • Chattanooga’s Rydables Tour from Trains to Bridges: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chattanooga $24
    Big Sur -

Sample the Local Flavors in Chattanooga

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chattanooga:

  • Distillery Tour at Gate 11: $18
  • Chattanooga Wine Tasting with Art Sightseeing Tour: $180


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chattanooga Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Chattanooga or Big Sur?

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 Chattanooga or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Chattanooga during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Chattanooga is much warmer than Big Sur in the summer. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 81°F (27°C) in July, and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Chattanooga gets 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chattanooga 81°F (27°C) 
    Big Sur 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chattanooga and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Chattanooga is around the same temperature as Big Sur. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chattanooga in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Big Sur averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In October, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Chattanooga gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chattanooga 63°F (17°C) 
    Big Sur 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chattanooga as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Chattanooga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

Chattanooga can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Chattanooga is generally much colder than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Chattanooga average around 40°F (5°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chattanooga usually gets more rain in January than Big Sur. Chattanooga gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chattanooga 40°F (5°C) 
    Big Sur 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Chattanooga or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Chattanooga are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Chattanooga is a little warmer than Big Sur in the spring. The daily temperature in Chattanooga averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. In April, Chattanooga usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Chattanooga gets 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chattanooga 62°F (17°C) 
    Big Sur 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Chattanooga

Chattanooga Big Sur
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
Mar 53°F (12°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 5.2 inches (133 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm)