A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Galveston vs. Monterey for Families, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Galveston or Monterey?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Monterey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Galveston travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Monterey travel costs.

Galveston and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Galveston or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monterey. Although Galveston and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Monterey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Monterey is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Galveston is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Galveston different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Galveston or Monterey?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Galveston and Monterey.

Many visitors head to Galveston specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

Monterey is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Galveston or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Galveston and Monterey.

Many people head to Galveston for the nightlife scene. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

Monterey has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Galveston or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Monterey. 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.

Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Galveston or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Galveston and Monterey are good choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Galveston to enjoy the beach. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Monterey has a beach worth visiting. 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 Galveston or Monterey Better for its Old Town?

Galveston is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Galveston has an old town worth visiting. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Galveston or Monterey?

Monterey is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Monterey is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Galveston or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Galveston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Is Galveston or Monterey Better for Couples?

Both Galveston and Monterey are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Galveston is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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.

Is Galveston or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

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

Galveston and Monterey both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

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

Is Galveston or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Galveston is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Galveston?

How long in Galveston or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Galveston and Monterey. In our opinion, Monterey has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Monterey than Galveston. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Galveston. 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 Galveston. 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 Galveston 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 Galveston or Monterey?

The town of Galveston offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Monterey. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Galveston or Monterey?

Galveston 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Galveston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing destination of Monterey. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Galveston or Monterey?

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Galveston or Monterey?

Galveston is a great place to explore. 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.

Monterey is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Galveston and Monterey, we can see that Galveston 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 Galveston Expensive? and Is Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Galveston or Monterey?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Galveston 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 Galveston or Monterey?

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 Galveston or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Galveston and Monterey. Many visitors come to Galveston in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Galveston is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galveston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In July, Galveston usually receives more rain than Monterey. Galveston gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Galveston or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galveston as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Galveston for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Monterey because of the shopping scene.

In October, Galveston is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Galveston average around 71°F (22°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Galveston gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Galveston or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Galveston are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Galveston because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

Galveston is around the same temperature as Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Galveston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Galveston usually receives more rain than Monterey. Galveston gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Galveston or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Galveston during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Galveston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches.

In the spring, Galveston is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galveston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

Galveston usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Galveston gets 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Galveston