A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jekyll Island vs. Palm Springs for Resorts, Food, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Palm Springs can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and museums. See Jekyll Island travel costs.

Palm Springs

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

Jekyll Island and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its beaches. Palm Springs is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Jekyll Island different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of notable museums and attractions in both Palm Springs and Jekyll Island.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

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.

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

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Palm Springs has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Palm Springs is a world class 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Jekyll Island or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Is Jekyll Island or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

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

Jekyll Island is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Jekyll Island or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Both Jekyll Island and Palm Springs are destinations which offer superb hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options 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.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Both Jekyll Island and Palm Springs are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Jekyll Island. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Jekyll Island or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.

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

Palm Springs is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Jekyll Island or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Jekyll Island or Palm Springs. In our opinion, Palm Springs has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Palm Springs than Jekyll Island. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island. 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 Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

In Jekyll Island, many people enjoy the museums that this relaxing island offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

Jekyll Island 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

You'll find museums around the relaxing destination of Jekyll Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Jekyll Island or Palm Springs?

Jekyll Island is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jekyll Island and Palm Springs, we can see that Palm Springs is more expensive. And not only is Jekyll Island much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Jekyll Island would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island.

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

When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Jekyll Island during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Jekyll Island is cooler than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Palm Springs. The beaches are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Jekyll Island