A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Santa Barbara for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Miami or Santa Barbara?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Santa Barbara can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Miami travel costs.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a wealthy, opulent, and pristine coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of Santa Barbara is one of the main draws. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Miami and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or Santa Barbara?

You'll generally find more things to do in Miami than Santa Barbara. Miami is bigger than Santa Barbara, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, and big city activities, while Santa Barbara is more popular for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Miami is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is known for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views.

How is Miami different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Miami or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Santa Barbara specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Miami or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Miami is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Music?

Miami is renowned for its music scene. However, Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

In Miami you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Santa Barbara is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

Miami is renowned for its resorts. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Miami is a great choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Santa Barbara. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a coastal town with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Santa Barbara has a few snorkeling spots. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Miami and Santa Barbara are world-class choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

The beaches in Santa Barbara are among the best in the world. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is very good for its historic old town. However, Miami does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Santa Barbara to see the historical old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Miami does not have a historic old town.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Santa Barbara?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Santa Barbara and Miami.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Known for shopping, Santa Barbara draws large crowds to its stores. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Santa Barbara is one of the main draws. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

Miami is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Santa Barbara.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Santa Barbara is very family-friendly. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is an amazing coastal town to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Santa Barbara has plenty to offer. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Miami is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a popular place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is well known for students. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Santa Barbara is very popular with students. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and Santa Barbara.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

While Santa Barbara offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Is Miami or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Miami and Santa Barbara both are great when exploring on foot.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable beach city. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Miami?

How long in Miami or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Miami and Santa Barbara. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Santa Barbara than in Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 2-3 days is enough time in Santa Barbara.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than Santa Barbara 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or Santa Barbara?

Miami is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Santa Barbara, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this pristine destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Barbara. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Santa Barbara?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the diverse big city of Miami. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach city 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.

Santa Barbara is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Santa Barbara. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Miami or Santa Barbara?

You'll find live music and food around the beach city of Miami. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Santa Barbara. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Miami and Santa Barbara, we can see that Miami is more expensive. And not only is Santa Barbara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Santa Barbara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Santa Barbara 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami than you might in Santa Barbara.

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or Santa Barbara?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Santa Barbara. When comparing the sizes of Miami and Santa Barbara, 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 Miami or Santa Barbara?

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 Miami or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Santa Barbara. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Miami is generally much warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Miami usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Miami or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Miami as well as Santa Barbara. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Santa Barbara this time of year.

Miami is much warmer than Santa Barbara in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Miami receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami usually gets more rain in October than Santa Barbara. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Miami or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

Both Santa Barbara and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Santa Barbara. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Miami usually receives less rain than Santa Barbara. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Miami or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

Both Santa Barbara and Miami during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Miami usually gets more rain in April than Santa Barbara. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Miami