A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Santa Barbara for Hiking, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a scenic, stunning, and wealthy coastal town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santa Barbara. Although Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara are both popular with visitors, Santa Barbara has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Santa Barbara is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Santa Barbara is popular for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. It is also home to The Old Mission Santa Barbara.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Santa Barbara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Santa Barbara is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Santa Barbara is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Santa Barbara. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Barbara is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santa Barbara. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

Pocono Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Nightlife?

Santa Barbara is a coastal town with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Santa Barbara, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a moderate coastal town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Santa Barbara is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a coastal town with good options for its old town. However, Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Santa Barbara to see the old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Pocono Mountains does not have a historic old town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Hiking?

Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Santa Barbara visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Santa Barbara make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

Pocono Mountains has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara are excellent to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Santa Barbara. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is notable for students. However, Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Santa Barbara. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Pocono Mountains is not popular with students.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Barbara is a coastal town with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Santa Barbara has a few public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Public transit is mostly limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

Is Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable coastal town. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable region. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Barbara or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Santa Barbara. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 2-3 days is enough time in Santa Barbara.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Pocono Mountains 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 Barbara.

One day in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Santa Barbara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the affluent coastal town of Santa Barbara. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Santa Barbara 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.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the region of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Santa Barbara 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 find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara, we can see that Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains Expensive? and Is Santa Barbara Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara, 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 Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara?

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 Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara in the Summer?

Both Santa Barbara and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Santa Barbara. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 65°F (19°C).

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Santa Barbara. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara in the Autumn?

Both Santa Barbara and Pocono Mountains during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santa Barbara for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally cooler than Santa Barbara. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in October than Santa Barbara. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Santa Barbara. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Pocono Mountains is much colder than Santa Barbara in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Santa Barbara fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of rain as Santa Barbara. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Santa Barbara in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Santa Barbara. The spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Santa Barbara this time of year.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is cooler than Santa Barbara. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Santa Barbara averages at about 57°F (14°C).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Santa Barbara. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Santa Barbara receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Santa Barbara and Pocono Mountains