A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Santa Monica for Beaches, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

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 Jacksonville and Santa Monica. 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a fun, vibrant, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Jacksonville travel costs.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a lively, funfilled, and energetic town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Jacksonville and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santa Monica than Jacksonville. While Jacksonville is larger than Santa Monica, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is more popular for its beaches, while Jacksonville is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Santa Monica is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also home to the Santa Monica Pier. Jacksonville is popular for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area.

How is Jacksonville different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Jacksonville is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Jacksonville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Is the Food Better in Jacksonville or Santa Monica? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Jacksonville and Santa Monica.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Santa Monica makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Both Jacksonville and Santa Monica have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Jacksonville has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

The people in Santa Monica know how to have a good time. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is renowned for the beach. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Santa Monica offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Jacksonville and Santa Monica.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Santa Monica is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Santa Monica is very family-friendly. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Santa Monica is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville and Santa Monica are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Santa Monica. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Jacksonville is a popular place for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Jacksonville is a good city to visit for students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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

Santa Monica is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Santa Monica. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

You'll find some public transit in Jacksonville, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

Is Jacksonville or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Santa Monica is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Jacksonville Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jacksonville and Santa Monica. In our opinion, Santa Monica has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Santa Monica than Jacksonville. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Monica than Jacksonville 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 Monica.

One day in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

In Jacksonville, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fun city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Santa Monica, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this funfilled town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Jacksonville is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Santa Monica is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Jacksonville. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the funfilled destination of Santa Monica. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Jacksonville is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Santa Monica is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do 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 Jacksonville and Santa Monica, we can see that Jacksonville is more expensive. And not only is Santa Monica much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Monica would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Monica 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville than you might in Santa Monica.

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

Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Santa Monica, 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 Jacksonville or Santa Monica?

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 Jacksonville or Santa Monica in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Santa Monica. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jacksonville usually gets more rain in July than Santa Monica. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

Both Santa Monica and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Jacksonville is around the same temperature as Santa Monica in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In October, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Santa Monica in the Winter?

Both Santa Monica and Jacksonville during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Jacksonville is cooler than Santa Monica. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jacksonville in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Jacksonville usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jacksonville or Santa Monica in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches.

In April, Jacksonville is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 68°F (20°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

In April, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Jacksonville