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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Whistler? 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. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and charming village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Saint Simons and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Whistler?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Whistler. Although Saint Simons and Whistler are both popular with visitors, Whistler has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Whistler is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saint Simons is known for its beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Whistler is more touristy than Saint Simons and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to Cloudraker Skybridge. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Saint Simons different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Saint Simons or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for winter skiing. However, Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Whistler should be on your list. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Saint Simons is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Saint Simons and Whistler have decent 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 Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Whistler can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Whistler has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Saint Simons or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Whistler know how to have a good time. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

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

Whistler is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

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 Whistler Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Saint Simons. 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Whistler specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

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 Whistler?

Saint Simons is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Saint Simons or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler 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.

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

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 Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Whistler is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

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.

Is Saint Simons or Whistler Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Whistler make for a very good 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.

Whistler is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Whistler is a village 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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

Is Saint Simons or Whistler a more walkable city?

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

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Whistler?

In either Saint Simons or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Saint Simons because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Simons, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

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

One day in Saint Simons or Whistler?

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 Whistler, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this charming village 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Whistler?

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.

In Whistler, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this charming 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 Whistler?

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.

Whistler 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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 Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Whistler?

Saint Simons has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Whistler. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Whistler in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Whistler in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Whistler 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 Whistler during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Whistler. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Whistler. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Whistler for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Whistler averages at about 11°C (51°F).

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 Whistler. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Whistler in the Winter?

Both Whistler and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Whistler because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Whistler can be very cold. In January, Saint Simons is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In January, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Whistler. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

Saint Simons is much warmer than Whistler in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Whistler fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets more sunshine than Whistler. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun.

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint Simons usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Saint Simons