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

Should you visit Pensacola 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 Pensacola and Monterey can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a entertaining, fun-filled, and active beach town. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping. See Pensacola 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.

Pensacola and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Pensacola or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Monterey. Although Pensacola 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, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Pensacola is known for its resorts, beaches, and hiking. Pensacola is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Pensacola different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pensacola or Monterey?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.


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

Pensacola
Monterey

Foodies will find both Pensacola and Monterey both to be high quality destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

Monterey has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Pensacola or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its evening party scene.

Monterey has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Is Pensacola or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Pensacola
Monterey

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

There are plenty of resorts in Pensacola to choose from. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Monterey is not a resort destination.


Is Pensacola or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pensacola or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Pensacola
Monterey

Pensacola is an amazing beach town to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Pensacola offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

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 Pensacola or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Pensacola
Monterey

Pensacola is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Monterey?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit 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.

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Is Pensacola or Monterey Better for Families?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pensacola. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Is Pensacola or Monterey Better for Couples?

Pensacola
Monterey

Both Pensacola and Monterey are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

Monterey makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Pensacola or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is very good for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

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

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Monterey a more walkable city?

Pensacola
Monterey

Monterey is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town 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.

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.


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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Monterey?

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

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


  • How many days in Pensacola or Monterey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pensacola 3-7 
    Monterey 1-3

One day in Pensacola or Monterey?

The beach town of Pensacola offers food and shopping. 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.

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 Pensacola or Monterey?

Pensacola is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the nature-oriented 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 Pensacola or Monterey?

Pensacola is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pensacola, five days is sufficent for most. 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 relaxing 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 Pensacola or Monterey?

Pensacola is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Pensacola has to offer. This beach town 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Monterey or Pensacola?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Pensacola Prices
    USA Prices
    Monterey Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pensacola $234
    Monterey $211

The average daily cost (per person) in Pensacola is $234, while the average daily cost in Monterey is $211. 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 Pensacola and Monterey in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pensacola $115
    Monterey $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pensacola $230
    Monterey $180
Compare Hotels in Pensacola and Monterey

Looking for a hotel in Pensacola or Monterey? 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 Pensacola


Hotels in Monterey


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: Pensacola Hotel Prices and Monterey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pensacola $64
    Monterey $32
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Is it cheaper to fly into Pensacola or Monterey?

Prices for flights to both Monterey and Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $84
    Monterey $98
Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Pensacola.

  • Palafox Palete Food Tour: $50
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon or Dinner and Ghost Tour: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pensacola $13
    Monterey $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pensacola are as follows:

  • 1hr Segway Tour Downtown : $57
  • 2hr Segway Tour of Downtown : $72
  • 3 Hour Sandbar Adventure on Motorized Floats: $69
  • Bay Cruise: $65
  • Condor Sailing Fun, Relaxing Public Dolphin & Sightseeing Cruise: $99
  • Daily Dolphin Cruise + Sightseeing Tour on Pensacola Beach: $35
  • Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49, Pensacola: $50
  • Frisky Mermaid Fireworks Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $65
  • Frisky Mermaid Public Dolphin + Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $39
  • Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola: $40
  • Ghosts of Haunted Trolley Tour: $35
  • Half Day Pontoon Boat Rental – Fun & Relaxing Water Adventure: $299

Tours and Activities in Monterey

For Monterey, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Treasure Hunt The Ride - Ticket + Power-Up Combo: $23
  • Mist, Mayhem & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours: $24
  • Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour: $62
  • Cannery Row Kayak Tour: $65
  • Catamaran Sailing Cruise: $65
  • Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide: $70
  • Whale Watching Cruise: $72
  • Sunset Whale Watching Cruise with A Guide: $75
  • 17-Mile Drive Pebble Beach E-Bike Tour: $75
  • Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour: $75
  • "Family Friendly" Scenic E-Bike Tour along 17 Mile Dr: $79
  • 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pensacola $44
    Monterey $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

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

  • Walking Ghost Tour Pub Crawl - Boos with Booze : $20
  • Walking Pub Tour : $21
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl of Downtown Pensacola : $45

Sample the Local Flavors in Monterey

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Monterey:

  • Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour: $206


When comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Monterey, we can see that Pensacola is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Monterey?

Pensacola has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Monterey in the Summer?

Both Monterey and Pensacola during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pensacola in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Monterey for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pensacola 82°F (28°C) 
    Monterey 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Monterey. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Monterey because of the shopping scene.

In October, Pensacola is generally a little warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 69°F (21°C), and Monterey fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Monterey. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pensacola 69°F (21°C) 
    Monterey 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Monterey in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Monterey. The winter months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

Pensacola is around the same temperature as Monterey in the winter. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 51°F (10°C) in January, and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Pensacola receives a lot of rain in the winter. Pensacola usually gets more rain in January than Monterey. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C) 
    Monterey 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Pensacola this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the beaches.

In the spring, Pensacola is a little warmer than Monterey. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pensacola in April average around 67°F (20°C), and Monterey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Monterey. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C) 
    Monterey 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Monterey and Pensacola

Pensacola Monterey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (47 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.1 inches (55 mm)
Apr 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (29 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 59°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 62°F (16°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.6 inches (14 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 51°F (10°C) 2 inches (51 mm)