A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sarasota vs. Portland, Maine for Families, Beaches, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Sarasota and Portland, Maine. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Sarasota travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. The beauty of Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Sarasota and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sarasota. Although Sarasota and Portland, Maine are both popular with visitors, Sarasota has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sarasota is more popular for its museums and attractions and resorts, while Portland, Maine is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sarasota is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. It is also home to the John and Mable Ringling Museum. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Sarasota different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

Sarasota is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Sarasota or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Sarasota and Portland, Maine.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Portland, Maine area. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Sarasota and Portland, Maine.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland, Maine. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Sarasota is a popular place for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Portland, Maine is great for the beach. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Many people visit Portland, Maine for it's beautiful beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a good destination for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine offers some nice hiking trails. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

If you're looking to go shopping, Sarasota and Portland, Maine both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Many visitors go to Portland, Maine to go shopping. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Portland, Maine is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Sarasota is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sarasota is a very family-friendly destination. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Sarasota and Portland, Maine both good destinations for a couple.

Sarasota makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Portland, Maine is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sarasota is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Sarasota or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Sarasota and Portland, Maine are decent when it comes to walkability.

Sarasota is generally not a very walkable city. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

Portland, Maine is generally not very walkable. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Sarasota Worth Visiting? and Is Portland, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sarasota and Portland, Maine. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sarasota than in Portland, Maine. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Sarasota, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland, Maine.

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

One day in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

The underrated destination of Sarasota offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

The city of Sarasota offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, Maine, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

Sarasota is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine 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.

A week in Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarasota. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. 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 coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Sarasota Expensive? and Is Portland, Maine Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Sarasota. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota and Portland, Maine, 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 Sarasota or Portland, Maine?

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 Sarasota or Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Portland, Maine. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sarasota is a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sarasota in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In the summer, Sarasota often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Portland, Maine. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

Sarasota receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sarasota usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Sarasota for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 76°F (24°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

Should I visit Sarasota or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Sarasota during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sarasota in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland, Maine can be very cold during winter. Sarasota is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the winter. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 59°F (15°C) in January, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the winter, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in January than Portland, Maine. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sarasota or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Portland, Maine. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland, Maine because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Sarasota is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sarasota in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Sarasota