A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Lewisburg vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

Should I visit Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea? 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. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pebble Beach Golf Course
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Carmel-by-the-Sea is better known for its food, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is famous for Pebble Beach Golf Course. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Lewisburg different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Both Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.


Is the Food Better in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a great culinary experience. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Lewisburg is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Carmel-by-the-Sea doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its beaches. However, Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is considered a top beach destination. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.


Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for its Old Town?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Lewisburg is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg offers a nice historic old town area. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea More Beautiful?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Lewisburg is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Lewisburg is a town with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

Lewisburg is a family-friendly place to visit. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Carmel-by-the-Sea frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Students?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Lewisburg is a town with good options for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Lewisburg is a good town to visit for students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.


Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Lewisburg
Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Lewisburg?

How long in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

Families should spend more time in Lewisburg than Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea than Lewisburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea than Lewisburg 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.


  • How many days in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lewisburg 1-2 
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 1-3

One day in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

Even though Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With museums and shopping around the historical town of Lewisburg, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Lewisburg. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Lewisburg is a popular choice for travelers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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
    Carmel-by-the-Sea Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Lewisburg $161
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00

The average daily cost (per person) in Lewisburg is $161, while the average daily cost in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lewisburg $70
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lewisburg $140
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $0.00
Compare Hotels in Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea

Looking for a hotel in Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea? 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Carmel-by-the-Sea Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lewisburg $53
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Prices for flights to both Carmel-by-the-Sea 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
    Carmel-by-the-Sea $264

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

  • Old Monterey Walking Food Tour: $164

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lewisburg $18
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -

Tours and Activities in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Carmel-by-the-Sea are as follows:

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea's Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Carmel Point: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Downtown A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Carmel on Foot Audio Tour: Courtyards, Artists & Ocean Views: $9.99
  • Scenic Path A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour from Monterey & Carmel: $15
  • Point Lobos - A Private Charming Ocean Tour: $15
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1: $20
  • Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive: $30
  • Mist, Mayhem, & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours: $32
  • Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lewisburg $12
    Carmel-by-the-Sea -

Sample the Local Flavors in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Carmel-by-the-Sea:

  • Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus: $139
  • Carmel Valley Village: Wine Tasting Tours in a 1970 VW bus.: $139
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $159
  • Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea: $159
  • Carmel Valley Wine Tour's Premium Package: $245


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Lewisburg is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lewisburg Expensive? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Lewisburg has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Lewisburg and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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 Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

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

In July, Lewisburg is generally a little warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 74°F (24°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Lewisburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Lewisburg gets 4 inches (101 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C) 
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lewisburg as well as Carmel-by-the-Sea. Most visitors come to Lewisburg for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in October than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Lewisburg gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C) 
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Winter?

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

The weather in Lewisburg can be very cold. In the winter, Lewisburg is much colder than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lewisburg in January average around 27°F (-3°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Lewisburg usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Lewisburg gets 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C) 
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Lewisburg or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Spring?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Lewisburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Lewisburg is generally cooler than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Lewisburg average around 51°F (11°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Lewisburg usually gets more rain in April than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Lewisburg gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C) 
    Carmel-by-the-Sea 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Lewisburg

Lewisburg Carmel-by-the-Sea
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)