A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Santa Monica vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Santa Monica or Whistler?

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

Should I visit Santa Monica 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 Monica

Santa Monica is a active, lively, and funfilled town. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Santa Monica travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a outdoorsy, charming, and adventurous village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Whistler is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Whistler travel costs.

Santa Monica and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Santa Monica or Whistler?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Santa Monica and Whistler are popular destinations, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its museums and attractions, beaches, and shopping, while Whistler attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is famous for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier. Whistler is famous for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding.

How is Santa Monica different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an amazing village to visit for snow skiing. However, Santa Monica 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 Monica is not a skiing destination.

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

Santa Monica is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Santa Monica is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

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 Monica or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Santa Monica and Whistler can be difficult as they are each very good 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.

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Santa Monica and Whistler.

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.

Whistler has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is notable for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

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.

Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Santa Monica are among the best in 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Hiking?

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

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.

Santa Monica is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Santa Monica or Whistler?

Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

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 Monica or Whistler More Beautiful?

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

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.

Santa Monica is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Santa Monica or Whistler.

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.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Is Santa Monica or Whistler Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Santa Monica and Whistler make for a very good 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.

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 Monica or Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Whistler is a great village to visit for backpackers. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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 Whistler 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, Whistler is not a good village for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Santa Monica is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Santa Monica or Whistler a more walkable city?

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

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Santa Monica?

How long in Santa Monica or Whistler?

In either Santa Monica or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

Couples should spend more time in Santa Monica than Whistler. 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 Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Santa Monica or Whistler?

The town of Santa Monica offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Whistler, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy 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 Santa Monica or Whistler?

Santa Monica is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Santa Monica, 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 Santa Monica or Whistler?

Santa Monica is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Santa Monica or Whistler?

Santa Monica is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 town 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, 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 Monica and Whistler, we can see that Santa Monica 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 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 Whistler.

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 Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Santa Monica or Whistler?

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

Both Whistler and Santa Monica are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches 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 July, Santa Monica is generally a little warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Santa Monica average around 70°F (21°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

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

Should I visit Santa Monica or Whistler in the Autumn?

Both Whistler and Santa Monica during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Santa Monica in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, 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.

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

Whistler gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Santa Monica usually gets less rain in October than Whistler. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Whistler in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Santa Monica and Whistler. Most visitors come to Santa Monica for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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 the winter, Santa Monica is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the winter temperatures in Santa Monica in January average around 57°F (14°C), and Whistler averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Santa Monica usually receives less rain than Whistler. Santa Monica gets 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Santa Monica or Whistler in the Spring?

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

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

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Santa Monica usually gets less rain in April than Whistler. Santa Monica gets 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Santa Monica