A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cherokee vs. Santa Monica for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Cherokee or Santa Monica?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Cherokee or Santa Monica, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a genuine, fascinating, and cultural town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Cherokee travel costs.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a active, lively, and funfilled town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Cherokee and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Cherokee and Santa Monica are popular destinations, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Cherokee attracts visitors for its hiking. Santa Monica is more touristy than Cherokee and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier. Cherokee is famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Cherokee different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Both Cherokee and Santa Monica have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Cherokee is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.

Santa Monica offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cherokee or Santa Monica? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Monica is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Monica makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is notable for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Santa Monica has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is an amazing town to visit for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Santa Monica are among the best in the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Hiking?

Cherokee is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Cherokee is a popular spot for hiking. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Santa Monica is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Santa Monica is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Cherokee and Santa Monica are both very good to visit as a couple.

Cherokee is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Cherokee and Santa Monica are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Santa Monica is a good town to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Monica is notable for its public transit. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Santa Monica can move around easily with public transportation. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

Is Cherokee or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is notable for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

Santa Monica is very walkable. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable town. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Cherokee Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Cherokee?

How long in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cherokee and Santa Monica. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cherokee than in Santa Monica. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Cherokee, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

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

Couples should spend more time in Santa Monica than Cherokee. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Santa Monica that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Monica than Cherokee 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 Santa Monica.

One day in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

In Cherokee, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this genuine town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The town of Santa Monica offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Cherokee is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Santa Monica is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santa Monica, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

You'll find food and shopping around the genuine destination of Cherokee. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Santa Monica is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Cherokee is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Cherokee or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Cherokee and Santa Monica, 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 Cherokee or Santa Monica?

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 Cherokee or Santa Monica in the Summer?

Both Santa Monica and Cherokee are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cherokee in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cherokee is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cherokee in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. In July, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cherokee or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Cherokee during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the shopping scene.

In October, Cherokee is generally cooler than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Cherokee average around 63°F (17°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in October than Santa Monica. Cherokee gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cherokee or Santa Monica in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cherokee and Santa Monica. The winter months attract visitors to Cherokee because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

The weather in Cherokee can be very cold. Cherokee is much colder than Santa Monica in the winter. The daily temperature in Cherokee averages around 40°F (5°C) in January, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cherokee usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Cherokee gets 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cherokee or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cherokee as well as Santa Monica. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches.

In the spring, Cherokee is around the same temperature as Santa Monica. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cherokee in April average around 62°F (17°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 61°F (16°C).

Cherokee usually gets more rain in April than Santa Monica. Cherokee gets 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Cherokee