A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pensacola vs. Saint Simons for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Pensacola or Saint Simons?

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 Saint Simons can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a fun-filled, active, and entertaining beach town. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pensacola travel costs.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Pensacola and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pensacola or Saint Simons?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pensacola. Although Pensacola and Saint Simons are popular destinations, Pensacola has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pensacola is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Saint Simons attracts visitors for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Pensacola is more touristy than Saint Simons and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. It is also well known for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Pensacola different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons?

Pensacola is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Pensacola is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

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

Foodies will find both Pensacola and Saint Simons both to be great 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.

Saint Simons has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola is a popular place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Pensacola has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

Pensacola is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Pensacola is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

Pensacola is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Pensacola. 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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Many people include a hike when visiting Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Saint Simons?

Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Saint Simons More Beautiful?

Saint Simons is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Pensacola is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Pensacola is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Pensacola or Saint Simons.

Pensacola is a very kid-friendly beach town. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Saint Simons. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

Both Pensacola and Saint Simons are great 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.

Saint Simons makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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

Neither Pensacola or Saint Simons offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Pensacola or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its ease of walking around.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either Pensacola or Saint Simons. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Pensacola due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pensacola, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Simons.

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

Couples should spend more time in Pensacola than Saint Simons. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pensacola that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Pensacola or Saint Simons?

In Pensacola, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this fun-filled beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Pensacola or Saint Simons?

Pensacola 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. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Five days in Pensacola or Saint Simons?

In Pensacola, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this active destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Saint Simons 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 great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Pensacola or Saint Simons?

Pensacola is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint Simons 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 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Saint Simons, 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 Saint Simons Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Saint Simons?

Pensacola has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola and Saint Simons, 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 Saint Simons?

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 Pensacola or Saint Simons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Saint Simons. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pensacola is generally around the same temperature as Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 82°F (28°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pensacola or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Saint Simons. The autumn months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

Pensacola is around the same temperature as Saint Simons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Pensacola receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pensacola usually gets more rain in October than Saint Simons. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.

Should I visit Pensacola or Saint Simons in the Winter?

Both Saint Simons and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pensacola this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Pensacola is cooler than Saint Simons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pensacola in January average around 51°F (10°C), and Saint Simons averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In January, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pensacola or Saint Simons in the Spring?

Both Saint Simons and Pensacola during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Pensacola is generally around the same temperature as Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 67°F (20°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Pensacola usually gets more rain in April than Saint Simons. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Pensacola