A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Santa Barbara for Beaches, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

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 Santa Barbara. 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 relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Clearwater travel costs.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a wealthy, opulent, and pristine coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Clearwater and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Santa Barbara than Clearwater. While Clearwater is larger than Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Santa Barbara is better known for its historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Clearwater is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Clearwater is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. Also, Santa Barbara is famous for The Old Mission Santa Barbara.

How is Clearwater different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Clearwater and Santa Barbara have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. 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.

Santa Barbara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Santa Barbara both to be superb destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Santa Barbara has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Clearwater and Santa Barbara.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Santa Barbara.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. 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.

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Clearwater and Santa Barbara both offer amazing beaches.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Barbara. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Santa Barbara to see the historical old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Santa Barbara is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Barbara is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. 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.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara as well. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Santa Barbara are superb family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Santa Barbara is very family-friendly. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

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 Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is notable for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Many students visit Santa Barbara. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Santa Barbara is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

Santa Barbara has a few public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

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.

Is Clearwater or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Santa Barbara is very walkable. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Santa Barbara. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Santa Barbara. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-3 days is enough time in Santa Barbara.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Clearwater 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 Barbara.

One day in Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Clearwater. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums and nightlife around the opulent coastal town of Santa Barbara, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Santa Barbara, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Clearwater. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Santa Barbara, a popular coastal town, 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 Santa Barbara?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Clearwater. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Santa Barbara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Barbara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara.

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Santa Barbara. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Santa Barbara, 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 Clearwater or Santa Barbara?

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 Clearwater or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

Both Santa Barbara and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

Both Santa Barbara and Clearwater during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Clearwater usually gets more rain in October than Santa Barbara. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Should I visit Clearwater or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Santa Barbara. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Clearwater is a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Santa Barbara. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Santa Barbara. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Clearwater usually gets more rain in April than Santa Barbara. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Clearwater