A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Daytona Beach vs. Monterey for Nightlife, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Monterey? 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.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a party-hard, energetic, and lively beach city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and live music. See Daytona Beach travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Monterey travel costs.

Daytona Beach and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach. Although Daytona Beach and Monterey are popular destinations, Daytona Beach has more sights and attractions for tourists. Daytona Beach is very popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Monterey attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Daytona Beach is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. It is also well known for The Daytona International Speedway. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Daytona Beach different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Monterey is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Daytona Beach or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Daytona Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Daytona Beach has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Music?

Daytona Beach is a good destination for its music scene. However, Monterey is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Daytona Beach. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Daytona Beach as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Daytona Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Daytona Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Daytona Beach and Monterey are nice choices.

Daytona Beach is a good option for a beach vacation. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Many people head to Monterey to enjoy the beach. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Monterey is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

Monterey is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a popular place for backpackers. However, Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Daytona Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Students?

Daytona Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Daytona Beach is a very popular place to visit for students. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Monterey is not popular with students.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Monterey is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

Is Daytona Beach or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.

For even more information, also check out Is Daytona Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Daytona Beach?

How long in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Daytona Beach and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Monterey than in Daytona Beach. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Daytona Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Daytona Beach 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 Monterey.

One day in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

The beach city of Daytona Beach offers live music and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Monterey. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Daytona Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. A weekend 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monterey. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Daytona Beach is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Daytona Beach is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach city offers something for everyone.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Monterey. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Monterey?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Daytona Beach and Monterey, 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 Daytona Beach or Monterey?

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 Daytona Beach or Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Daytona Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Monterey. The autumn months attract visitors to Daytona Beach because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the autumn, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Daytona Beach in October average around 74°F (23°C), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Daytona Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Monterey. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Monterey in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Monterey. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Daytona Beach is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 58°F (14°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

Daytona Beach is much warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 69°F (21°C) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Monterey. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Daytona Beach