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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains? 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. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. Pocono Mountains is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains: 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
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Both Pocono Mountains and Saint Simons have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Saint Simons is very popular for its food, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, and hiking. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Saint Simons different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

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

Pocono Mountains is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.


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

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

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

Pocono Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

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 Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. 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.

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 Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

It's hard to distinguish whether Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains has a better nightlife scene.

Saint Simons is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Pocono Mountains doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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 Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains offer a relatively similar set of nice luxury resort options.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

With a selection of resorts, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. 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 Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Saint Simons is notable for the beach. However, Pocono Mountains 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains 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 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.

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 Pocono Mountains?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Saint Simons is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its shopping areas.

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

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 Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains 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.

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful place to visit, too. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Is Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains.

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, Pocono Mountains is very family-friendly. 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.


Is Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

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

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


Is Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Pocono Mountains

Saint Simons is a island with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region 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.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable island. 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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Both Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Saint Simons. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Saint Simons than Pocono Mountains. 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.

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


  • How many days in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful region 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 Pocono Mountains?

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Saint Simons is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

In Pocono Mountains, many people enjoy the museums and skiing that this scenic destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Pocono Mountains is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. 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, Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Simons $211
    Pocono Mountains $213

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $211, while the average daily cost in Pocono Mountains is $213. 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 Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains? 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 Pocono Mountains


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pocono Mountains are as follows:

  • Wooden Dough Bowl Candle Making Experience: $70
  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $78
  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Pocono Mountains $13


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains, 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Pocono Mountains Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains, 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 Pocono Mountains?

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 Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Saint Simons is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saint Simons in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono Mountains this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pocono Mountains during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Pocono Mountains. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Pocono Mountains. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 70°F (21°C), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pocono Mountains. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

Both Pocono Mountains and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Pocono Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. Saint Simons is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pocono Mountains. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Saint Simons is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saint Simons in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)