A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Panama City vs. Monterey for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Panama City or Monterey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Panama City or Monterey, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Panama City

Panama City is a cosmopolitan, fun-filled, and active beach town. Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches. See Panama City travel costs.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Monterey travel costs.

Panama City and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Panama City or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monterey. Although Panama City and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Monterey has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Monterey is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Panama City is known for its music, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Panama City is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Panama City different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Panama City or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Panama City or Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Monterey. 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.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Panama City or Monterey has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Panama City know how to have a good time. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

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.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Music?

Panama City is a good destination for its music scene. However, Monterey is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Monterey is not a live music destination.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Panama City is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Monterey has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Panama City 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 Panama City for it's beautiful beaches. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

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 the Shopping Better in Panama City or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Is Panama City or Monterey More Beautiful?

Panama City is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Monterey is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Families?

Panama City and Monterey are both world-class destinations for the whole family.

Panama City is an amazing family-friendly beach town to visit. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Monterey is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. 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.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Couples?

Panama City and Monterey are both great to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Panama City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

Monterey is a great beach town if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Panama City or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Panama City or Monterey Better for Students?

Panama City is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Monterey is not popular with students.

Many students visit Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Monterey is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Panama City and Monterey.

Public transit is generally limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

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

Is Panama City or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

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

Panama City is not a very walkable beach town. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Panama City?

How long in Panama City or Monterey?

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

Families should spend more time in Monterey than Panama City. 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 Monterey than Panama City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Monterey that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Monterey than Panama City 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 Panama City or Monterey?

The beach town of Panama City offers live music and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back city of Monterey. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Panama City or Monterey?

Panama City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid back destination of Monterey. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Panama City or Monterey?

Panama City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Panama City, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The laid back city of Monterey offers museums and nightlife. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Panama City or Monterey?

Panama City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Panama City has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Monterey. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Panama City and Monterey, we can see that Panama City 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 Panama City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Panama City 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 Panama City Expensive? and Is Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Panama City or Monterey?

Panama City has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Panama City 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 Panama City or Monterey?

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 Panama City or Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Panama City as well as Monterey. Many travelers come to Panama City for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Monterey in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Panama City is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the summer temperatures in Panama City in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Monterey averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Panama City receives a lot of rain in the summer. Panama City usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Panama City gets 7.3 inches (184 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Panama City are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Panama City in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Monterey for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Panama City is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Panama City average around 71°F (22°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Panama City usually receives more rain than Monterey. Panama City gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Panama City or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Panama City during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Panama City for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Monterey because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Panama City is around the same temperature as Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Panama City averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Panama City usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Panama City gets 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Panama City or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Panama City and Monterey. The spring months attract visitors to Panama City because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the spring, Panama City is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Panama City in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Panama City usually receives more rain than Monterey. Panama City gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Panama City