A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cocoa Beach vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

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 Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs. 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.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and adventurous beach town. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cocoa Beach travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Cocoa Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Cocoa Beach is more popular for its museums and attractions and beaches. Palm Springs is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Cocoa Beach is well known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palm Springs and Cocoa Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

Cocoa Beach is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Cocoa Beach specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Palm Springs is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

Cocoa Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Palm Springs for its luxury resorts. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Cocoa Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palm Springs. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is an amazing beach town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is one of the most popular family destinations. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs both high quality destinations for a couple.

Cocoa Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Palm Springs frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Cocoa Beach has a few public transit options. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Public transit is mostly limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Palm Springs is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

For even more information, also check out Is Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cocoa Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

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

One day in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

In Cocoa Beach, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this adventurous beach town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy city of Palm Springs. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

Cocoa Beach is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the chic destination of Palm Springs. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

In Cocoa Beach, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The outdoorsy city of Palm Springs offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cocoa Beach Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs, 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 Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs?

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 Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Cocoa Beach is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. In October, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Cocoa Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Palm Springs. The spring months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches.

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Cocoa Beach