A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Big Sur for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Hiking

Should you visit Saint Simons or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Big Sur? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

Saint Simons and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint Simons than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint Simons is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, shopping, and small town charm, while Big Sur is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Saint Simons is well known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Also, Saint Simons is famous for East Beach. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Saint Simons different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Saint Simons is adequate for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Saint Simons is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a few great resort options. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Saint Simons and Big Sur are great choices.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Big Sur is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Saint Simons is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Saint Simons. 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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Big Sur is one of the main draws. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in 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.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Families?

Saint Simons is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Saint Simons is a great island if you're traveling as 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 Saint Simons or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

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

Neither Saint Simons or Big Sur offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Saint Simons or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Saint Simons is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Big Sur is not a walkable island. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint Simons and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint Simons than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

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

One day in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this remote natural area offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saint Simons has to offer.

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

Saint Simons 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.

You'll find food around the remote destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

A week in Saint Simons or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint Simons. Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

Big Sur is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Saint Simons or Big Sur?

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 Saint Simons or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Saint Simons during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 70°F (21°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint Simons in January average around 53°F (12°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Big Sur. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 68°F (20°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Saint Simons