A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint Thomas vs. Bar Harbor for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor?

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

Should I visit Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor? 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.

Where Should I go: Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor?

Saint Thomas

Saint Thomas is a beautiful island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Together with St. John, St. Croix, and Water Island, it forms the unincorporated territory of the United States. The island is also home to the territorial capital and port of Charlotte Amalie. The island's population is just over 50,000, which is slightly less than half of the territory's total population.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a seafront town located on Mount Desert Island just off the coast of Maine. The Wabanaki Indians who seasonally fished, hunted and gathered berries, clams, and other shellfish in the area, called it the ‘clam-gathering' or ‘clambake' place. Eventually the area was settled by Europeans who established industries in fishing, lumbering, shipbuilding, and agriculture. Its maritime scenery even attracted artists of the Hudson River School like Thomas Cole, and the area soon became a seasonal resort for the affluent, comparable to that of Newport, Rhode Island.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bar Harbor or Saint Thomas?

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

  • Saint Thomas Prices
    USVI Prices
    Bar Harbor Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Saint Thomas $258
    Bar Harbor $243

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Thomas is $258, while the average daily cost in Bar Harbor is $243. 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 Thomas and Bar Harbor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Thomas $131
    Bar Harbor $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Thomas $262
    Bar Harbor $234
Compare Hotels in Saint Thomas and Bar Harbor

Looking for a hotel in Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor? 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 Thomas


Hotels in Bar Harbor


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: Bar Harbor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Thomas $37
    Bar Harbor $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saint Thomas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Saint Thomas are as follows:


  • Scooter Rental
    $65
  • Taxi Ride
    $5.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint Thomas

Also for Saint Thomas, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Cyril E. King Airport(STT) to Charlotte Amalie Port: $83
  • VI Top Taxi and Tours - St. Thomas - Airport Transfer to Red Hook Ferry: $90
  • Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI- St.Thomas Airport Transfer to Bolongo Bay / Limetree: $110
  • Vi Top Taxi & Tours -Airport Transfer to Bolongo Bay/ Limetree: $110
  • PARADISE TAXI & TOURS USVI-St.Thomas-Airport Transfer to Marriott Frenchman Cove: $110
  • St.Thomas to St.Thomas Airport (STT) - Departure Private Transfer: $115
  • Private Ground Transfers: $120
  • Exclusive Airport Transfers (up to 4 persons) One-Way: $135
  • St.Thomas island to Cyril E. King Airport(STT)-Departure Transfer: $135
  • St. Thomas USVI Airport Transfer to the Redhook Ferry: $144
  • St. Thomas USVI Airport Transfer to The Ritz Carlton Resort: $144
  • Paradise Taxi & Tours USVI- St. Thomas - Airport Transfer to Red Hook Ferry: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor?

Prices for flights to both Bar Harbor and Saint Thomas 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 Thomas $94
    Bar Harbor $98

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint Thomas

For Saint Thomas, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Flavors: Cultural Cooking Class, St Thomas, USVI, USA : $81
  • St. John Sail with Bar and Hors d'Oeuvres to Lovango Dinner: $119
  • Sunset & Harbor Lights Dinner Sail from the Marriott's Frenchman's Cove: $119
  • Afternoon Snorkel, Pizza & Sunset Tour departing from St. Thomas & St. John: $120
  • Local Experience, St. John U.S. Virgin Islands Food Tour: $125
  • Pizza Pi Shuttle (Official) - Jet Ski Trip St Thomas: $148
  • St. John PiZZA Pi Snorkel Sail with Beach Stop, Lunch & Open Bar - Westin: $149
  • Christmas Cove and Pizza Pi Happy Hour Sail Tour: $185
  • Turtles, Pizza Pi & Sunset trip: $295

Typical Food Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • West Street Cafe (for 4)
    $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Thomas $60
    Bar Harbor $39

Tours and Activities in Saint Thomas

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

  • Nature and Sightseeing Tour at Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden: $16
  • Children's Treasure Hunt Walking Tour: $25
  • Coral World Ocean Park General Admission Ticket: $29
  • Cruise Ship Shuttle to Ferry going to St. John: $34
  • Rum Tasting Experience in the Old Barrel House: $35
  • Admission Ticket to Coral World & Coki Point Beach with Snorkeling: $40
  • St. Thomas Sightseeing Tour with a Guide: $40
  • Guided Tour of Coral World Ocean Park & Happy Hour: $40
  • St. Thomas Ghost Tour of Historic Charlotte Amalie : $41
  • Prince taxi & Tours St.Thomas Virgin Islands-Island Scenic Tour: $45
  • Guided Kayak Tour from Margaritaville: $48
  • Guided Kayak Tour from Elysian: $48

Typical Entertainment Prices in Bar Harbor

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Bar Harbor are as follows:


  • Acadia National Park Entrance Fee
    $25
  • Sunset Cruise (for 4)
    $96

Tours and Activities in Bar Harbor

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Bar Harbor are as follows:

  • 4 Hour Private Tour: Acadia, Fjord, Gardens & Mansions: $700
  • 90-minute Ghost Walking Tour in Bar Harbor: $33
  • Acadia Fat tire Ebike Tours: $190
  • Acadia Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike: $427
  • Acadia Mount Desert Island Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour: $25
  • Acadia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $16
  • Acadia's Ocean Path Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Bar Harbor Premium Driving Tour With Thunder Hole & Acadia: $159
  • Bar Harbor Premium Tour with Cadillac Mountain and Acadia Park: $149
  • Bar Harbor Walking Tour: $30
  • Bar Harbor, Maine: Culinary Walking Tour with Tastings: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Thomas $27
    Bar Harbor $30


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Thomas and Bar Harbor, we can see that Saint Thomas 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. Even though Saint Thomas is in Caribbean Islands and Bar Harbor is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saint Thomas Expensive? and Is Bar Harbor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor?

Saint Thomas has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bar Harbor. When comparing the sizes of Saint Thomas and Bar Harbor, 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 Thomas or Bar Harbor?

Bar Harbor has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Saint Thomas experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor in the Summer?

Both Bar Harbor and Saint Thomas during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Saint Thomas because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Saint Thomas is a little warmer than Bar Harbor in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Thomas averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Saint Thomas usually gets less rain in July than Bar Harbor. Saint Thomas gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Thomas 29°C (83°F) 
    Bar Harbor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Thomas and Bar Harbor. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Saint Thomas year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Bar Harbor because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Thomas is much warmer than Bar Harbor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Thomas in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Bar Harbor averages at about 48°F (9°C).

Saint Thomas gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Saint Thomas usually receives more rain than Bar Harbor. Saint Thomas gets 146 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Thomas 28°C (82°F) 
    Bar Harbor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint Thomas as well as Bar Harbor. Saint Thomas attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Bar Harbor this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bar Harbor in the winter. In January, Saint Thomas is generally much warmer than Bar Harbor. Daily temperatures in Saint Thomas average around 26°C (78°F), and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

Saint Thomas usually gets less rain in January than Bar Harbor. Saint Thomas gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Thomas 26°C (78°F) 
    Bar Harbor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Saint Thomas or Bar Harbor in the Spring?

Both Bar Harbor and Saint Thomas are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Saint Thomas throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Bar Harbor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Saint Thomas is much warmer than Bar Harbor in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Thomas averages around 27°C (80°F) in April, and Bar Harbor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Saint Thomas usually receives less rain than Bar Harbor. Saint Thomas gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Bar Harbor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Thomas 27°C (80°F) 
    Bar Harbor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bar Harbor and Saint Thomas

Saint Thomas Bar Harbor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 26°C (78°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 26°C (79°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 27°C (80°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 28°C (82°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 28°C (83°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 29°C (84°F) 101 mm (4 in) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 127 mm (5 in) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 146 mm (5.7 in) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 126 mm (4.9 in) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 26°C (80°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)


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