A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Simons vs. Kamloops for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Saint Simons or Kamloops?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Kamloops? 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. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Kamloops travel costs.

Saint Simons and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Kamloops?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Kamloops are popular destinations, Saint Simons has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops attracts visitors for its skiing and nightlife. Saint Simons is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also well known for East Beach. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Saint Simons different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Kamloops is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.


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

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Both Saint Simons and Kamloops 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 Kamloops specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

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

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

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

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

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 Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Saint Simons attract visitors from all over. 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.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

If you're looking to go hiking, Saint Simons and Kamloops both have nice trails.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamloops. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Kamloops?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops 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.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Kamloops.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kamloops is very family-friendly. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.


Is Saint Simons or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kamloops is a good island for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Kamloops 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 Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

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

Is Saint Simons or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Kamloops

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options 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.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.


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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint Simons or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saint Simons than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Saint Simons or Kamloops?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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.

In Kamloops, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this nature-filled city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Kamloops?

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kamloops is a fun place to experience. 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 Kamloops?

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy destination of Kamloops. 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 Kamloops?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Kamloops is a popular place to visit. 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Kamloops or Saint Simons?

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

  • Saint Simons Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Kamloops is $99. 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 Saint Simons and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Kamloops? 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 Saint Simons


Hotels in Kamloops


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Kamloops $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $83
    Kamloops $41

Typical Food Prices in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Pastries
    $5.80
  • Lunch for Two
    $25
  • Coffee and Gelato
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Kamloops

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

  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops & Revelstoke: $8.07
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops and Vancouver: $8.08
  • Scenic Kamloops Self Guided Audio Driving Tour to Lake Louise : $12
  • BC Wildlife Park Entry Ticket: $14
  • Skip the Line: Kamloops BC Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $15
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Kamloops by Zombie Scavengers: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Kamloops $6.77


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saint Simons and Kamloops, we can see that Saint Simons is more expensive. And not only is Kamloops much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kamloops would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kamloops 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 Kamloops.

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 Kamloops Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Kamloops, 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 Saint Simons or Kamloops?

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 Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Kamloops. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Kamloops averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Kamloops. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Kamloops in the Autumn?

Both Kamloops and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Saint Simons during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kamloops in the winter. Saint Simons is much warmer than Kamloops in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Kamloops in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Kamloops. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

In the spring, Saint Simons is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Kamloops averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In April, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)