cape cod vs. san francisco (price, to move, beaches)

[mrsindica]

i haven't been on a vacation in years, and i can't decide between the two. can anyone who has been to both recommend one? early 30's couple, don't really like to party...more into hiking and being on the beach, good food and relaxation.

[ogre]

Interesting choice, because the options you're considering are opposites, a big city and a touristy area that is semi-rural with small towns scattered throughout. From the description you've provided about your vacation preferences, it sounds as if you lean more toward outdoor activities. For this reason, I'd think the semi-rural area with small towns would fit better. It's true that from San Francisco you could get to some nice countryside in Marin County, or south of the city if you were prepared to travel some distance, but if you want outdoorsy activities and open country right outside your door, the Cape would seem like a better fit.

Another point in the Cape's favor would be the difference in water temperature between the two locations, especially if you were to hit the south side of the Cape, within the next couple of weeks before the water temperatures begin to cool. There is some amazing coastal scenery in central CA, and if you weren't planning on entering the water maybe that scenery would be a draw, but smooth, sandy beaches, like many on Cape Cod, have their own beauty, and on the south side of the Cape at this time of year the water temp. is actually mild enough so you can go swimming.

[lrfox]

I'm with ogre. Both are great destinations. However, based on what you're looking for, Cape Cod fits better.

San Francisco is beautiful. However, it's a major urban area. The beaches nearby are pretty, but they're often too windy or cool to enjoy for a full day. The water is VERY cold. Wine Country and the rural areas outside the city are beautiful but spread out.

Cape Cod will give you access to the more activities outdoors in a more condensed area. Biking, Beaches (suitable for bathing), etc all right there. I'd go with the Cape.

For the record, I'm leaving for S.F. on Wednesday and was there in July too. Beautiful city and a lot of fun. This time of year though, I prefer Cape Cod for outdoor activity.

[mdovell]

I hear the weather in SF can be totally different from the rest of CA. I think the food in SF might have more variety. Price wise I think cape should be cheaper. I've met some that loved SF but they couldn't afford to move back there when they left.

[capecodcathy]

I can only talk about the Cape. Never been to SF. Autumn is the best time to visit. Hiking, biking, and the heavy tourist season is winding down so traffic is better. I'd love to visit SF, though.