A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santa Monica vs. Vancouver for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Santa Monica or Vancouver?

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

Should I visit Santa Monica or Vancouver? 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 energetic, active, and lively town. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a friendly, outdoorsy, and scenic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Vancouver travel costs.

Santa Monica and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Monica or Vancouver?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vancouver than Santa Monica. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Vancouver is very popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Santa Monica attracts visitors for its beaches. Santa Monica is more touristy than Vancouver and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. Vancouver is famous for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also well known for Stanley Park.

How is Santa Monica different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Vancouver are among the most recognizable in the world. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santa Monica. 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.

Is the Food Better in Santa Monica or Vancouver? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Santa Monica and Vancouver can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

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.

Vancouver has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are superb in both Santa Monica and Vancouver.

Santa Monica has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Vancouver has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Santa Monica offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

People visit Vancouver specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Monica or Vancouver?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Vancouver make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santa Monica. 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.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Santa Monica is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver Better for Families?

Santa Monica is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Vancouver is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Santa Monica is very family-friendly. 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.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly town. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Vancouver makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vancouver is notable for backpackers. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Vancouver is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

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 Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is notable for students. However, Santa Monica is not popular with students.

Vancouver is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Santa Monica is not popular with students.

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

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Vancouver is top-notch. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

The public transit in Santa Monica can get you to most places 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.

Is Santa Monica or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Vancouver on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Santa Monica?

How long in Santa Monica or Vancouver?

In either Santa Monica or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver 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 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Santa Monica 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 Vancouver.

One day in Santa Monica or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Santa Monica. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Santa Monica has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Vancouver has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Vancouver?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Santa Monica. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver 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 Santa Monica or Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic town of Santa Monica. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Vancouver has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Santa Monica or Vancouver?

Santa Monica is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Vancouver 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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 Vancouver Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Monica or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Santa Monica. When comparing the sizes of Santa Monica and Vancouver, 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 Monica or Vancouver?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Vancouver in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Santa Monica as well as Vancouver. Most visitors come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Vancouver because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Santa Monica is generally a little warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 70°F (21°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Santa Monica usually gets less rain in July than Vancouver. Santa Monica gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver and Santa Monica are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

Santa Monica is much warmer than Vancouver in the autumn. The daily temperature in Santa Monica averages around 67°F (20°C) in October, and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In October, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Vancouver in the Winter?

Both Vancouver and Santa Monica during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vancouver for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vancouver. In the winter, Santa Monica is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the winter temperatures in Santa Monica in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Vancouver averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Santa Monica usually gets less rain in January than Vancouver. Santa Monica gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Monica and Vancouver. Many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Vancouver in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Santa Monica is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 61°F (16°C), and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Santa Monica