A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Grand Canyon National Park vs. Big Sur for Couples, Backpackers, Hiking, and Food

Should you visit Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a gorgeous, striking, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come to Grand Canyon National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Big Sur is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Canyon National Park than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is better known for its nightlife and resorts, while Big Sur is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, and shopping. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Big Sur and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is famous for the sunset views. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Grand Canyon National Park different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

Big Sur is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Big Sur. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Sur is a good destination for its restaurants. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Sur. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Grand Canyon National Park is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Grand Canyon National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

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 Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Big Sur for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Grand Canyon National Park and Big Sur, and they are high quality.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Big Sur. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

Big Sur is not a good area for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Big Sur can be found for those interested. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park and Big Sur both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. 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.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Families?

Both Grand Canyon National Park and Big Sur are notable family-friendly destinations.

Grand Canyon National Park is a family-friendly national park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Big Sur. 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 Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park and Big Sur both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Grand Canyon National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

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

Is Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Grand Canyon National Park is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable national park. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

Big Sur is not a walkable national park. 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 Grand Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Grand Canyon National Park?

How long in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grand Canyon National Park and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park than in Big Sur. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Grand Canyon National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park 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 Grand Canyon National Park.

One day in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this breathtaking destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

In Grand Canyon National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Grand Canyon National Park has to offer.

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

Grand Canyon National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This natural area offers something for everyone.

A week in Grand Canyon National Park or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful natural area of Big Sur. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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