A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Saint Simons vs. Boulder for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Saint Simons or Boulder?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Boulder? 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 laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a biker-friendly, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. Boulder is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Boulder travel costs.

Saint Simons and Boulder: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Boulder?

Both Boulder and Saint Simons have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Boulder attracts visitors for its skiing, nightlife, music, and hiking. Saint Simons is more touristy than Boulder and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Boulder is famous for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Saint Simons different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Boulder to take advantage of their winter sports. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Saint Simons and Boulder have reasonable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Boulder specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

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

Saint Simons is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saint Simons has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

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

Boulder has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

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 Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder is a popular place for live music. However, Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Boulder is active and vibrant. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Saint Simons is not a live music destination.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder is not a resort destination.

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

Boulder is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a great island for the beach. However, Boulder is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint Simons for it's beautiful 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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

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 Boulder?

Saint Simons is a great island for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Saint Simons is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder More Beautiful?

Saint Simons and Boulder both are comparable with their nice scenery and beauty.

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

Boulder is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Families?

Saint Simons is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Saint Simons is very family-friendly. 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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Couples?

Saint Simons is a great island for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Boulder is a good island for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

Is Saint Simons or Boulder Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boulder 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 Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

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 Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is a great destination for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Boulder is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Boulder is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

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

Is Saint Simons or Boulder a more walkable city?

Saint Simons and Boulder both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Boulder is a somewhat walkable place. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Boulder or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Boulder?

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

Families should spend more time in Saint Simons than Boulder. 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 Boulder. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boulder than Saint Simons 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 Boulder.

One day in Saint Simons or Boulder?

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 Boulder, many people enjoy the live music and food that this biker-friendly city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Boulder?

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.

Boulder is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Boulder?

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 shopping and nightlife around the nature-filled destination of Boulder. 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 Boulder?

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.

Boulder 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 comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Boulder, we can see that Boulder 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Boulder Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Boulder, 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.