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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a vibrant, fun-filled, and diverse beach area. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking. See Big Sur travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in West Palm Beach than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. West Palm Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Big Sur is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Also, West Palm Beach is famous for Rosemary Square. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is West Palm Beach different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

Big Sur is mediocre for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Sur is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Sur. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to West Palm Beach for the nightlife scene. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

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 West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, West Palm Beach is a very popular vacation destination. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. 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 West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is a great natural area for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

Big Sur is mediocre for shopping. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Big Sur because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Families?

West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

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 West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is very popular for romance. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its romantic activities.

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.

West Palm Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach 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.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

West Palm Beach is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Big Sur a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

West Palm Beach is a somewhat walkable beach area. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Big Sur is not a walkable beach area. 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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both West Palm Beach and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than in Big Sur. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in Big Sur than West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

In West Palm Beach, you'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This beach area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The scenic destination of Big Sur offers food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

In West Palm Beach, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

The natural area of Big Sur offers food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that West Palm Beach has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This natural area offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in West Palm Beach or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in West Palm Beach. In West Palm Beach, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Big Sur. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between West Palm Beach and Big Sur, we can see that West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Big Sur. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Big Sur. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Big Sur. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Big Sur. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Big Sur. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and West Palm Beach