A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Orlando vs. Santa Monica for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Orlando or Santa Monica?

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

Should I visit Orlando or Santa Monica? 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.

Orlando

Orlando is a entertaining, active, and family-friendly city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Orlando travel costs.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a energetic, active, and lively town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Orlando and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Orlando or Santa Monica?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Santa Monica than Orlando. While Orlando is larger than Santa Monica, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and beaches, while Orlando attracts visitors for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is famous for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Santa Monica is famous for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier.

How is Orlando different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Orlando or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Santa Monica is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Theater?

Orlando is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

Orlando offers a number of shows and performances. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Santa Monica is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Orlando or Santa Monica? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Orlando and Santa Monica.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santa Monica. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Santa Monica for the nightlife scene. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Orlando is a great choice. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is renowned for its beaches. However, Orlando is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Monica. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Orlando is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Orlando or Santa Monica?

If you're looking to go shopping, Orlando and Santa Monica both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Santa Monica is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Orlando or Santa Monica.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Orlando is a very family-friendly destination. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Santa Monica is one of the most popular family destinations. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Santa Monica is great for romance. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Santa Monica is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Orlando makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Monica is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Santa Monica. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Students?

Orlando is a popular place for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Monica is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Santa Monica. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Orlando or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Santa Monica is very walkable. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Orlando Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Orlando?

How long in Orlando or Santa Monica?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Monica than Orlando 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 Santa Monica.

One day in Orlando or Santa Monica?

In Orlando, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this active city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Santa Monica, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Orlando or Santa Monica?

Orlando is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. A weekend is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

In Santa Monica, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Monica has to offer.

Five days in Orlando or Santa Monica?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the family-friendly destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Orlando or Santa Monica?

Orlando is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Santa Monica. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Orlando or Santa Monica?

Orlando has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Orlando and Santa Monica, 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 Orlando or Santa Monica?

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 Orlando or Santa Monica in the Summer?

Both Santa Monica and Orlando during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Orlando because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

In the summer, Orlando is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orlando in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. Orlando usually gets more rain in July than Santa Monica. Orlando gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Orlando and Santa Monica. The shopping scene are the main draw to Orlando this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the shopping scene.

In October, Orlando is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Orlando average around 75°F (24°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Orlando usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Orlando gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Orlando or Santa Monica in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Orlando as well as Santa Monica. Many travelers come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Santa Monica in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Orlando is around the same temperature as Santa Monica in the winter. The daily temperature in Orlando averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Orlando usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Orlando gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Orlando or Santa Monica in the Spring?

Both Santa Monica and Orlando are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Orlando is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orlando in April average around 72°F (22°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Orlando usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Orlando gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Orlando