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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Nantucket?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nantucket? 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 relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a peaceful, upscale, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Nantucket travel costs.

Saint Simons and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Saint Simons and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Saint Simons different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Simons
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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 Saint Simons or Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Nantucket is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Nantucket is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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.

Is Saint Simons or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

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

Nantucket has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

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 Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

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 Saint Simons or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Saint Simons and Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Saint Simons or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

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 Nantucket?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Shopping is a popular activity in both Nantucket and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Saint Simons or Nantucket More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

Nantucket is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

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 Nantucket Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

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

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, Nantucket is very family-friendly. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.


Is Saint Simons or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

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

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Nantucket is a popular place for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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

Is Saint Simons or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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.


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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Saint Simons or Nantucket. In our opinion, Nantucket has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nantucket than Saint Simons. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nantucket 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 Nantucket.


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

One day in Saint Simons or Nantucket?

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.

In Nantucket, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this upscale island 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 Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint Simons or Nantucket?

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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the upscale small town of Nantucket. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nantucket 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
    Nantucket Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Nantucket $409

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Nantucket is $409. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Nantucket $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $141

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Nantucket $34

Tours and Activities in Nantucket

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nantucket.

  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Audio Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Beyond the Cobblestones Self Guided Walking Tour of Nantucket: $9.99
  • Nantucket Coast to Coast Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Discover Nantucket Self-Guided Biking or Driving Tour: $13
  • Historical Landmarks Sightseeing Bus Tour: $53
  • Historical Tour of Nantucket: $57
  • Downtown Walking Tour: $120
  • Guided Bike Tour: $160
  • Guided Scenic Island Driving Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Nantucket $35


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

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 Nantucket Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket 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. Also, many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. Saint Simons usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nantucket in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Saint Simons is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nantucket in the Winter?

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

Nantucket can be very cold during winter. In January, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Nantucket in the Spring?

Both Nantucket 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 Nantucket because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. In April, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)