A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. San Diego for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nantucket or San Diego?

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 San Diego can help you decide which place is right for you.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Nantucket travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Diego travel costs.

Nantucket and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantucket or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego. Although Nantucket and San Diego are popular destinations, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Nantucket attracts visitors for its food, resorts, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Nantucket and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling.

How is Nantucket different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego is a great coastal 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 San Diego specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in San Diego is an experience not to be missed. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

The nightlife in San Diego has something for everybody. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for live music. However, Nantucket is not a live music destination.

San Diego has a thriving music scene. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Nantucket is not a live music destination.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Nantucket is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego 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 San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for its beaches. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is great for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Hiking?

You'll find high quality hiking in both Nantucket and San Diego.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. 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.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or San Diego?

Nantucket is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Nantucket or San Diego More Beautiful?

Nantucket is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Families?

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

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

Both Nantucket and San Diego are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Nantucket has plenty to offer. 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.

San Diego has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Nantucket or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

San Diego is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

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 San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Nantucket is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Nantucket is not popular with students.

Is Nantucket or San Diego 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, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Nantucket or San Diego a more walkable city?

Nantucket is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable island. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or San Diego?

In either Nantucket or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in San Diego than Nantucket because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Nantucket, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than San Diego. 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 San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in Nantucket or San Diego?

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 San Diego?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or San Diego?

Nantucket 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 relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Nantucket or San Diego?

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

San Diego 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 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 San Diego, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Diego would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Diego 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 San Diego.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantucket or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Nantucket are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Nantucket is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantucket in July average around 68°F (20°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

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

Should I visit Nantucket or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and Nantucket during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nantucket is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Nantucket average around 53°F (12°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. Nantucket usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Nantucket gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantucket or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantucket and San Diego. The winter months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

The weather in Nantucket can be very cold. Nantucket is much colder than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantucket averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nantucket usually receives more rain than San Diego. Nantucket gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nantucket or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nantucket as well as San Diego. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nantucket is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantucket in April average around 45°F (7°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the spring. Nantucket usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Nantucket gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Nantucket