A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Destin vs. Palm Springs for Resorts, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Destin or Palm Springs?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Destin and Palm Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Destin travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Destin and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Destin or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Destin and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Destin is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Destin and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Destin is popular for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Destin different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Palm Springs is very good for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Palm Springs is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Destin or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is terrific for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a must-see party destination. 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.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Destin or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is terrific for its resorts. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Palm Springs is a perfect choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Is Destin or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

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

Destin is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Destin or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Destin or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Is Destin or Palm Springs More Beautiful?

Destin is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin is a gorgeous place to visit. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

Palm Springs is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Destin or Palm Springs Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Destin or Palm Springs.

Destin is a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

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 Destin or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is notable for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

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

Palm Springs is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Destin or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is very good for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

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

Destin is not a very walkable beach town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Destin?

How long in Destin or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Destin or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Destin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Destin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

Couples should spend more time in Palm Springs than Destin. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs than Destin 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 Palm Springs.

One day in Destin or Palm Springs?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this peaceful 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Destin or Palm Springs?

Destin 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.

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Destin or Palm Springs?

In Destin, many people enjoy the shopping and food that this beautiful 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Destin or Palm Springs?

Destin is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

When comparing the travel costs between Destin and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Destin or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Destin 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 Destin or Palm Springs?

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 Destin or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Destin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Destin is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. In July, Destin usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Destin gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Destin or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Destin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Destin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Destin is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Destin in October average around 69°F (21°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. Destin usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Destin gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Destin or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Destin and Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Destin is generally cooler than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Destin average around 50°F (10°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Destin usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Destin gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Destin or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Destin as well as Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Destin in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Destin is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Destin averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Destin usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Destin gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Destin