A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Santa Monica vs. Olympic National Park for Families, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

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

Should I visit Santa Monica or Olympic National Park? 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 Monica

Santa Monica is a active, lively, and funfilled town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a pristine, stunning, and vast park. The beauty of Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Santa Monica and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Santa Monica than Olympic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Santa Monica is better known for its food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Olympic National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is more touristy than Olympic National Park and is known for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. Also, Santa Monica is famous for the Santa Monica Pier. Olympic National Park is well known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Santa Monica different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Santa Monica and Olympic National Park.

Santa Monica offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

Is the Food Better in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santa Monica. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

Santa Monica offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Olympic National Park is notable for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Olympic National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Olympic National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Santa Monica. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

People visit Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Santa Monica is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best shopping.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Olympic National Park is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Santa Monica is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

Santa Monica is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Santa Monica is a very family-friendly destination. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Santa Monica and Olympic National Park make for a high quality place to visit.

Santa Monica is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Olympic National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Santa Monica is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Santa Monica can get you around easily. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Public transit is mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

Is Santa Monica or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

Santa Monica is a very walkable town. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable town. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting? and Is Olympic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Santa Monica?

How long in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

In either Santa Monica or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than Santa Monica because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Santa Monica, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Santa Monica than Olympic National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Santa Monica that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santa Monica than Olympic National Park 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 Monica.

One day in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

In Santa Monica, you'll find shopping and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santa Monica, one day is sufficent for most.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums that this stunning park 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 Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santa Monica. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park 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 hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

Santa Monica is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums that this vast 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the energetic destination of Santa Monica. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Santa Monica Expensive? and Is Olympic National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Santa Monica or Olympic National Park?

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 Monica or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

Both Olympic National Park and Santa Monica are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Olympic National Park this time of year.

Santa Monica is a little warmer than Olympic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Santa Monica averages around 70°F (21°C) in July, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In July, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Santa Monica gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Olympic National Park and Santa Monica during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Santa Monica is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Santa Monica in October average around 67°F (20°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 51°F (10°C).

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Santa Monica usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Monica and Olympic National Park. Many travelers come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Olympic National Park in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Olympic National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Santa Monica is generally much warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 57°F (14°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Santa Monica gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Santa Monica as well as Olympic National Park. Many visitors come to Santa Monica in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

Santa Monica is much warmer than Olympic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Santa Monica averages around 61°F (16°C) in April, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Santa Monica usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Santa Monica