A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Kennebunkport vs. Big Sur for Couples, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Big Sur? 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.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a character-filled, charming, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Kennebunkport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kennebunkport than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kennebunkport is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Big Sur is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is well known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Also, Kennebunkport is famous for Dock Square. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Kennebunkport different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Kennebunkport is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kennebunkport. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kennebunkport or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kennebunkport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kennebunkport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

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 Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Kennebunkport. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is great for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Big Sur is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is great for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Kennebunkport is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Families?

Kennebunkport is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kennebunkport. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is very popular for romance. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

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.

Kennebunkport is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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

Is Kennebunkport or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable town. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

Big Sur is not a walkable town. 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 Kennebunkport Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kennebunkport and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kennebunkport, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Big Sur. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kennebunkport that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the scenic destination of Big Sur. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Kennebunkport might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kennebunkport has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the remote destination of Big Sur. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This natural area 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 Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. Since Kennebunkport is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food around the beautiful natural area of Big Sur. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

When is the best time to visit Kennebunkport or Big Sur?

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 Kennebunkport or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kennebunkport is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 69°F (20°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Kennebunkport during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Kennebunkport is much colder than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 49°F (9°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Big Sur. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Kennebunkport is much colder than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kennebunkport in January average around 21°F (-6°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Big Sur. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Kennebunkport is generally much colder than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 43°F (6°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Kennebunkport