A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Big Sur for Couples, Beaches, Families, and Food

Should you visit Tampa or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Big Sur? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a remote, breathtaking, and scenic natural area. Big Sur is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches. See Big Sur travel costs.

Tampa and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Big Sur?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tampa. Although Tampa and Big Sur are popular destinations, Tampa has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tampa is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Big Sur attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Big Sur is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. It is also well known for Busch Gardens.

How is Tampa different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Big Sur?

Big Sur is not a good area for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Big Sur. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Tampa and Big Sur can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

Tampa is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Tampa is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Tampa doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Tampa and Big Sur are great choices.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Big Sur is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Big Sur?

Big Sur is not a good area for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Big Sur can be found for those interested. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Big Sur is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its beauty.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Families?

Tampa is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Tampa is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Tampa or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Tampa or Big Sur offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Tampa or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Tampa is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Big Sur. In our opinion, Big Sur has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Big Sur than Tampa. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Big Sur than Tampa. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Sur that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Sur than Tampa 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 Big Sur.

One day in Tampa or Big Sur?

In Tampa, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this remote destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Big Sur?

In Tampa, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tampa has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Big Sur?

Tampa is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Big Sur. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food around the scenic destination of Big Sur. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Tampa and Big Sur, we can see that Tampa is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Tampa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tampa than you might in Big Sur.

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

When is the best time to visit Tampa or Big Sur?

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 Tampa or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Big Sur. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is much warmer than Big Sur in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Big Sur. Many travelers come to Tampa for the city's sights and attractions. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tampa is a little warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Big Sur averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Tampa usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tampa in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

In January, Tampa is generally a little warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In January, Tampa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Big Sur. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tampa is much warmer than Big Sur in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Tampa usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Tampa