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

Should you visit Clearwater or Big Sur?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Big Sur. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Clearwater travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. You'll find world class beauty in Big Sur as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

Clearwater and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Clearwater than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Clearwater is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Clearwater different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Clearwater specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

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 Clearwater or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Clearwater has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater has a few options to choose from. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night 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 Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Clearwater. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Clearwater is a very popular vacation destination. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. 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.

Is Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Big Sur?

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

Clearwater has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

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 Clearwater or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Big Sur as well. 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.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Families?

Clearwater is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Clearwater or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its romantic activities.

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Clearwater makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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

Big Sur is a good destination for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

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

Is Clearwater or Big Sur a more walkable city?

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

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Big Sur is not a walkable coastal 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 Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Big Sur. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Big Sur. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Big Sur 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 Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Big Sur?

In Clearwater, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food around the remote natural area of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Clearwater or Big Sur?

In Clearwater, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With food around the destination of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

Five days in Clearwater or Big Sur?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Clearwater has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur, a popular natural area, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Clearwater. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Big Sur is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

When is the best time to visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Big Sur. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Sur in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.

Should I visit Clearwater or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the cuisine.

In the winter, Clearwater is a little warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Clearwater usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Big Sur. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Clearwater or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Big Sur. The spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Clearwater