A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. Berkeley for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nantucket or Berkeley?

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 Nantucket and Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Nantucket travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Berkeley travel costs.

Nantucket and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Nantucket or Berkeley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Berkeley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nantucket is better known for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums and attractions and nightlife. Nantucket is well known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Nantucket different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or Berkeley?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


Is the Food Better in Nantucket or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Berkeley has something for everybody. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Berkeley?

Nantucket
Berkeley

If you're looking to go shopping, Nantucket and Berkeley both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley More Beautiful?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Families?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Nantucket is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Berkeley is a family-friendly island. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.


Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Nantucket is renowned for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Students?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket is not popular with students.

Berkeley is very popular with students. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Nantucket is not popular with students.


Is Nantucket or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Berkeley is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Berkeley has a great public transit system. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Nantucket has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Nantucket or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Nantucket
Berkeley

Berkeley is renowned for its walkability. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

For even more information, also check out Is Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Berkeley?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Nantucket 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Nantucket or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in Nantucket or Berkeley?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 shopping and museums around the city of Berkeley. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Nantucket or Berkeley?

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nantucket, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the quirky destination of Berkeley. 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 Nantucket or Berkeley?

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse city of Berkeley. 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 Nantucket or Berkeley?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Berkeley 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or Nantucket?

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

  • Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
    Berkeley Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    Berkeley $217

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $217. 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 Nantucket and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket or Berkeley? 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 Nantucket


Hotels in Berkeley


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: Nantucket Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to Oakland by SUV: $270
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141
    Berkeley $63

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $137
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nantucket.

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $100
  • Experience Create your own jewelry workshop for beginners: $95
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $126
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket and Berkeley, 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 Nantucket or Berkeley?

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 Nantucket or Berkeley in the Summer?

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

In July, Nantucket is generally a little warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 68°F (20°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Nantucket usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Berkeley in the Autumn?

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

Nantucket is cooler than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nantucket can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nantucket is much colder than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantucket in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. Nantucket usually gets more rain in January than Berkeley. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit Nantucket or Berkeley in the Spring?

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

In April, Nantucket is generally much colder than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 45°F (7°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In April, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Nantucket

Nantucket Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)