A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Monterey for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

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 Fort Lauderdale and Monterey. 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Monterey travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Monterey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Monterey is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Monterey offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Fort Lauderdale makes for a great culinary experience. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Monterey has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or Monterey has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

The nightlife in Monterey has something for everybody. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Fort Lauderdale and Monterey.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Monterey is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Fort Lauderdale attracts visitors from all around. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Monterey is very family-friendly. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an amazing coastal city to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Monterey.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

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

Is Fort Lauderdale or Monterey a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale and Monterey both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Monterey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

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

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Fort Lauderdale. 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 Fort Lauderdale than Monterey. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Fort Lauderdale that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

The beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The relaxing destination of Monterey offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Monterey offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Monterey is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Monterey. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Monterey, we can see that Fort Lauderdale is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Monterey?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Monterey. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Fort Lauderdale receives a lot of rain in the summer. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the shopping scene.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Fort Lauderdale. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Monterey. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Fort Lauderdale during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Monterey. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Monterey. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches during these months.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Monterey. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Fort Lauderdale