A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Nags Head or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Monterey? 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.

Nags Head

It's also popular because of the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Monterey travel costs.

Nags Head and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nags Head or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Nags Head is well known for

How is Nags Head different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Monterey?

Monterey is great for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Nags Head or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Monterey. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Nags Head and Monterey.

Many people head to Nags Head for the nightlife scene. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

Monterey has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Monterey is a popular place for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Monterey?

Monterey is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly . It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Couples?

Monterey is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Monterey is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Nags Head and Monterey are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Nags Head or Monterey Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Monterey is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Nags Head or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is great for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nags Head and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nags Head than in Monterey. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Nags Head 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 Monterey.

One day in Nags Head or Monterey?

The of Nags Head offers food and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Monterey. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Nags Head or Monterey?

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid back destination of Monterey. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Monterey?

Nags Head is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nags Head, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing city of Monterey. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Monterey?

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. This offers something for everyone.

Monterey is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head and Monterey, 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 Nags Head or Monterey?

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 Nags Head or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Monterey. Most visitors come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 78°F (26°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Monterey. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nags Head or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Monterey. Additionally, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

Nags Head is around the same temperature as Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 62°F (16°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Nags Head usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nags Head or Monterey in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Nags Head in the winter. In the winter, Nags Head is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nags Head in January average around 41°F (5°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In January, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Monterey. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nags Head or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Nags Head during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

In April, Nags Head is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 59°F (15°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Nags Head usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Nags Head