A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nantucket vs. South Lake Tahoe for Food, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

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 South Lake Tahoe 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. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nantucket travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. Many visitors also come to South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while South Lake Tahoe attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse. South Lake Tahoe is famous for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

How is Nantucket different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for skiing. However, Nantucket is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Nantucket is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket is an amazing island to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

South Lake Tahoe is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Nantucket. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket is a well-known place for the beach. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket is a well-known place for its old town. However, South Lake Tahoe 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.

South Lake Tahoe does not have a historic old town.


Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for hiking. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

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

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

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


Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

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

South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Both Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe are terrific 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.

South Lake Tahoe has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

South Lake Tahoe is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

Nantucket
South Lake Tahoe

Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe are excellent 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.

South Lake Tahoe is a very walkable island. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Nantucket Worth Visiting? and Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Nantucket?

How long in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nantucket than South Lake Tahoe. 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 South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.


  • How many days in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nantucket 2-4 
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5

One day in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the town of South Lake Tahoe. 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.


A weekend in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the scenic destination of South Lake Tahoe. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Nantucket is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the idyllic town of South Lake Tahoe. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Nantucket is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the food. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

South Lake Tahoe 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.


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, South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nantucket $409
    South Lake Tahoe $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Nantucket is $409, while the average daily cost in South Lake Tahoe is $146. 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 South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nantucket $237
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nantucket $474
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe? 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 South Lake Tahoe


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 South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nantucket $47
    South Lake Tahoe $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in South Lake Tahoe

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in South Lake Tahoe.

  • Persian Cooking Class with Private Chef: $120
  • Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nantucket $34
    South Lake Tahoe $56

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 South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour at Cave Rock: $110
  • "Lake Tahoe 101" : See The Whole Lake! 6 HR Shared Tour by Van.: $199
  • 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe: $140
  • Clear Kayak Adventure Tour: $198
  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour: $150
  • Clear Kayak Tour: $140
  • Eco Canoe Tour: $258
  • Electric Dirtbike Adventure in Lake Tahoe: $200
  • Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe: $139
  • Emerald Bay Private Boat Tours: $690
  • Full-Day Lake Tahoe Circle Tour including Squaw Valley: $70
  • Guided Scenic Bike Experience above Lake Tahoe's East Shore: $205

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nantucket $35
    South Lake Tahoe $34

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

Also in South Lake Tahoe, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Scavenger Adventure and Lake Tahoe Bar Crawl: $15
  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nantucket or South Lake Tahoe?

South Lake Tahoe has a larger population, and is about 62% larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Nantucket and South Lake Tahoe, 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.