A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santa Barbara vs. Whistler for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Santa Barbara or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a wealthy, opulent, and pristine coastal town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Santa Barbara travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Santa Barbara and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Barbara than Whistler, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Barbara is better known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Whistler is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, and small town charm. Whistler is more touristy than Santa Barbara and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Santa Barbara is well known for its historic missions, pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and scenic hikes that are full of coastal views. Also, Santa Barbara is famous for The Old Mission Santa Barbara.

How is Santa Barbara different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is renowned for snow skiing. However, Santa Barbara 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.

Santa Barbara is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Santa Barbara is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Santa Barbara can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is famous for its missions, with Mission Santa Barbara being the most iconic. Also visit the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History and Sea Center.

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 Santa Barbara or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Santa Barbara and Whistler.

Dining out in Santa Barbara is an experience not to be missed. The city is best known for its fine dining, particularly if you enjoy seafood. The scallops, oysters, clam chowder, and sea urchin (when available) are all world class. Head for a waterfront setting for the best views and some of the freshest seafood.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Whistler. 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 Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Whistler offers plenty to do in the evening. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Santa Barbara. For the best nightlife in the city, head downtown to State Street. This is where you'll find the most active bars and biggest crowds. There's a large student population in town, so you'll find much of the nightlife scene is focused on the younger population.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Santa Barbara and Whistler offer a relatively similar set of very good luxury resort options.

Santa Barbara is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Many people enjoy the luxurious vacation rentals around Santa Barbara, but there are also a number of high end resorts including the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, The Ritz-Carlton, and Hotel Californian.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Whistler. 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.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santa Barbara is a moderate coastal town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Santa Barbara. Snorkeling areas not far from town include Refugio State Beach and Tajiguas. You'll see a few fish, beautiful rocks, and anemones that are unique and impressive.

Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Santa Barbara is renowned for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Santa Barbara are among the best in the world. The city is famous for its pristine, sandy beaches. Whether you want to enjoy world class surfing or enjoy a gentle ocean setting, Santa Barbara has many options.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for its Old Town?

Santa Barbara is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Santa Barbara to see the historical old town. The city's downtown "Old Town" is a high end, pedestrian-friendly area with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Whistler does not have a historic old town.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Santa Barbara and Whistler both have fantastic trails.

People visit Santa Barbara specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Just outside of town are countless hiking opportunities that offer spectacular ocean views. Popular hikes include Inspiration Point, San Ysidro Trail, and Cold Spring East Fork.

Many people visit Whistler specifically for its hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Santa Barbara is renowned for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Santa Barbara is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is famous as a high end shopping destination. Head to State Street for a palm tree lined street with local boutiques.

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 Santa Barbara or Whistler More Beautiful?

Santa Barbara is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Santa Barbara as well. The city is beautifully situated right by the ocean and offers stunning views and and an amazing setting. It is also filled with opulent houses and grand estates, giving it an air of grandeur.

The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Santa Barbara is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit 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.

Santa Barbara is a very family-friendly destination. The city has some nice family-friendly activities including a zoo, some cool museums, and even whale watching. There are also many beautiful beaches where everyone can run around and play, as well as parks and other outdoor settings. For animal-lovers, there are wildlife centers and sea life opportunities.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Couples?

Santa Barbara is renowned for romance. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its romantic activities.

Santa Barbara has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The town is a stunningly beautiful destination with beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and nice resorts that make for a great honeymoon or romantic trip.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Santa Barbara is not a good coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Whistler is a very popular village for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Santa Barbara is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city isn't really known as a budget friendly destination, but there are a couple of hostels in the area. There's also a large student population with a fun nightlife scene.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler Better for Students?

Santa Barbara is a well-known place for students. However, Whistler is not popular with students.

Santa Barbara is a great coastal town to visit as a student. With a major university right in town, there's plenty of student life that international students or locals can enjoy.

Whistler is not popular with students.

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

Santa Barbara is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Whistler is not a good village for times when you don't have a car.

Santa Barbara has a few public transit options. Transit options include buses, trolleys and water taxis.

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Santa Barbara or Whistler a more walkable city?

Santa Barbara and Whistler both are very good when exploring on foot.

Santa Barbara is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Santa Barbara Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Santa Barbara?

How long in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

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

Families should spend more time in Whistler than Santa Barbara. 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 Santa Barbara than Whistler. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Santa Barbara that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Barbara than Whistler 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 Santa Barbara.

One day in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

The beautiful coastal town of Santa Barbara offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the adventurous destination of Whistler. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Santa Barbara is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santa Barbara, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Whistler. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Santa Barbara 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.

Many travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Whistler. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Santa Barbara is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful village of Whistler. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing 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 Santa Barbara and Whistler, we can see that Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara Expensive? and Is Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Barbara or Whistler?

Santa Barbara has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara or Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler and Santa Barbara are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Santa Barbara for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, 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.

In the summer, Santa Barbara is around the same temperature as Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Santa Barbara in July average around 65°F (19°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In July, Santa Barbara usually receives less rain than Whistler. Santa Barbara gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Santa Barbara during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Santa Barbara in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, 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 October, Santa Barbara is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Santa Barbara average around 62°F (17°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Santa Barbara usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Santa Barbara gets 0.5 inches (13 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Barbara and Whistler. Most visitors come to Santa Barbara 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. Santa Barbara is much warmer than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Santa Barbara averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Santa Barbara usually receives less rain than Whistler. Santa Barbara gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Santa Barbara or Whistler in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Santa Barbara as well as Whistler. The spring months attract visitors to Santa Barbara because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In the spring, Santa Barbara is a little warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Santa Barbara in April average around 57°F (14°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Santa Barbara usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Santa Barbara gets 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Santa Barbara