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

Should you visit Lewisburg or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

Lewisburg and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Sur than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Sur is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Big Sur is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Also, Big Sur is famous for Bixby Bridge. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's 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 Lewisburg or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Big Sur is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

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

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

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 Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Big Sur is well known for its beaches. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.


Is Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Lewisburg is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg has an old town worth visiting. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Big Sur is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Lewisburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Lewisburg is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Lewisburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

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 Lewisburg or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lewisburg or Big Sur.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lewisburg. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. 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 Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


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

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Lewisburg or Big Sur Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Lewisburg is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Sur is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Lewisburg
Big Sur

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

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


Is Lewisburg or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Big Sur

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable town. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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 Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

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

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

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


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Big Sur? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Big Sur 1-3

One day in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

In Lewisburg, you'll find shopping and museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find food around the natural area of Big Sur. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Sur has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

In Lewisburg, you'll find museums and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lewisburg has to offer.

You'll find food around the scenic destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

Lewisburg is a great place to explore. 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 natural area of Big Sur. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lewisburg or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lewisburg. Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Big Sur is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Big Sur or Lewisburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Lewisburg Prices
    USA Prices
    Big Sur Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Lewisburg $161
    Big Sur $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $161, while the average daily cost in Big Sur is $0.00. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lewisburg and Big Sur in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Big Sur $165
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Big Sur $330
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Big Sur

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Big Sur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lewisburg


Hotels in Big Sur


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Big Sur -

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Big Sur?

Prices for flights to both Big Sur and Lewisburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lewisburg $59
    Big Sur -

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Big Sur -

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Big Sur -


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



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

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 Lewisburg or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Lewisburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lewisburg is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 74°F (24°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lewisburg. Lewisburg usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C) 
    Big Sur 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lewisburg and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Lewisburg is cooler than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lewisburg averages around 54°F (12°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C) 
    Big Sur 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lewisburg as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lewisburg is much colder than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lewisburg in January average around 27°F (-3°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in January than Big Sur. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C) 
    Big Sur 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Lewisburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lewisburg is generally cooler than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 51°F (11°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Lewisburg gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C) 
    Big Sur 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Lewisburg

Lewisburg Big Sur
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
Mar 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
May 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm) 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm)
Nov 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm)