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

Should you visit Nantucket or Monterey?

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 Monterey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a serene, peaceful, and upscale island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Nantucket 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.

Nantucket and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or Monterey?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nantucket than Monterey, 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 Monterey is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and scuba diving & snorkeling. Nantucket is well known for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. Also, Nantucket is famous for Great Point Lighthouse. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Nantucket different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monterey 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 Monterey?

Monterey 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 Monterey specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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 Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its restaurants. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Monterey makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Monterey 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 Monterey has something for everybody. 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.

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 Monterey Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Nantucket to choose from. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Monterey. 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.

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Nantucket is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Nantucket for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

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.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Monterey does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nantucket. 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.

Monterey does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nantucket. 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.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or Monterey?

If you're looking to go shopping, Nantucket and Monterey both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Monterey is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Nantucket or Monterey More Beautiful?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Couples?

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Nantucket or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

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

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

Nantucket is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

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

Is Nantucket or Monterey a more walkable city?

Nantucket and Monterey are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nantucket and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Nantucket than in Monterey. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Nantucket. 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 Nantucket than Monterey. 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 Monterey 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 Monterey.

One day in Nantucket or Monterey?

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 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 Nantucket or Monterey?

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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing 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 Nantucket or Monterey?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the nature-oriented 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 Nantucket or Monterey?

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.

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 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or Monterey?

Monterey has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and Monterey. Many visitors come to Nantucket in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In July, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Monterey. Nantucket gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nantucket or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Nantucket for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Monterey because of the shopping scene.

Nantucket is cooler than Monterey in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 53°F (12°C) in October, and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nantucket usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or Monterey in the Winter?

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

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. In the winter, Nantucket is much colder than Monterey. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantucket in January average around 31°F (-0°C), and Monterey averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. In January, Nantucket usually receives more rain than Monterey. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nantucket or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Nantucket during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches.

In April, Nantucket is generally much colder than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 45°F (7°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Nantucket