A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Moab for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Moab?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Moab? 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 fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Moab

Moab is a adventurous, active, and scenic town. Many visitors also come to Moab because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking and shopping. See Moab travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Moab: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Moab?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Moab. Although West Palm Beach and Moab are both popular with visitors, Moab has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Moab is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Moab is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is known for its desert landscapes and the iconic arches found at Arches National Park. It is also home to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from Moab?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Moab 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 Moab?

West Palm Beach
Moab

Moab is adequate for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Moab specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that will teach you about the geology and history. You can pop in the Moab Museum or the Film Museum at Red Cliffs Ranch, as well as the galleries around town.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

West Palm Beach
Moab

Both West Palm Beach and Moab offer decent local cuisine and restaurants.

West Palm Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Moab. The town has grown over the years and now you'll find a diverse selection of restaurants that serve decent food. There are steakhouses, pizzerias, and even a couple ice cream shops.

Is West Palm Beach or Moab Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Moab

West Palm Beach is great for nightlife. However, Moab is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Moab specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has grown significantly and you'll find bars, taverns, and breweries where you can hang out in the evening, but it's still a quiet place with a laid back atmosphere.

Is West Palm Beach or Moab Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Moab

West Palm Beach is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Moab is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, West Palm Beach is a great choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Moab is not a resort destination.


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

West Palm Beach
Moab

West Palm Beach is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Moab is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Moab is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Moab Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Moab

West Palm Beach is very popular for its beaches. However, Moab is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in West Palm Beach. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Moab is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Moab Better for Hiking?

West Palm Beach
Moab

Moab is very popular for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Moab specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The area is filled with hiking trails, both inside the nearby national parks as well as outside. Canyonlands National Park is large with impressive overlooks, while Arches National Park has fun hikes that take you by diverse arches and include many opportunities for scrambling. Outside of the park, hikers can visit Corona Arch or search for dinosaur footprints at Dinosaur Tracks Trail.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Moab?

West Palm Beach
Moab

Moab is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Moab. There are gift shops, places to buy outdoor equipment, and convenient stores around town. There are also a number of art galleries that sell local items or impressive photography.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Moab More Beautiful?

West Palm Beach
Moab

Moab 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 Moab because of it's amazing beauty. The desert landscapes and unique geological features make this a fascinating and beautiful area to explore. The dramatic arches in Arches National Park tell a unique story of how the geology of the area has changed.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Moab Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Moab

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Moab.

West Palm Beach is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Moab is a very kid-friendly beach area. It's a world of outdoor adventures. You'll find river rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, and many kid-friendly trails. There's also the Tracks Museum, where kids can learn about dinosaurs as well as swimming pools or swimming holes in the area.


Is West Palm Beach or Moab Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Moab

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Moab make for a high quality place to visit.

West Palm Beach is a great beach area if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Moab is a very popular place to visit for couples. The area is filled with adventurous fun, with everything from world-class hikes to impressive rafting trips. The dramatic landscape provides the backdrop for a truly spectacular trip.

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

West Palm Beach
Moab

Moab is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Moab is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has many campgrounds and even a few hostels. Arches National Park has only a few backcountry overnight camping sites. Terrain is rough and most areas aren't accessible by trail.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

West Palm Beach
Moab

West Palm Beach is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Moab 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 Moab. There are efforts to create a transportation program within town, but there are limited transportation options available. If you book a tour, they usually provide transportation.


Is West Palm Beach or Moab a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Moab

West Palm Beach is a popular place for its walkability. However, Moab is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Moab is generally not very walkable. While it's possible to walk around within the town, most visitors don't come to visit they town, they come to explore the area. You'll need a car to access most points of interest in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Moab or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Moab?

In either West Palm Beach or Moab, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than Moab because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-5 days is enough time in Moab.

Families should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Moab. 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 West Palm Beach than Moab. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in West Palm Beach that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Moab 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 Moab.


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Moab? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Moab 2-5

One day in West Palm Beach or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The active destination of Moab offers shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or Moab?

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The town of Moab offers shopping. 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 Moab?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the fun-filled destination of West Palm Beach. This beach area offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Moab is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in West Palm Beach or Moab?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse beach area of West Palm Beach. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many people enjoy the shopping when visiting Moab. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Moab or West Palm Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • West Palm Beach Prices
    USA Prices
    Moab Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    West Palm Beach $378
    Moab $416

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $378, while the average daily cost in Moab is $416. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for West Palm Beach and Moab in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Moab $336
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Moab $672
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Moab

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Moab? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in West Palm Beach


Hotels in Moab


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices and Moab Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Moab $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $213
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Arrival Private Transfer: $155
  • Private Transfer from PBI to Palm Beach City : $149
  • Limo Service Transfer To or From Palm Beach Airport and Hotels: $139
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $119
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $109
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $109
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Business Car: $103
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $84
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Moab?

Prices for flights to both Moab and West Palm Beach change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    West Palm Beach $114
    Moab $64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

For West Palm Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $94
  • Downtown Food Tour: $94
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $105
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $110
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $110

Typical Food Prices in Moab

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Moab:


  • Moab Brewery
    $42
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Moab

For Moab, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Colorado River Dinner Cruise with Music and Light Show: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Moab $3.13

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 2 ½ - Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster park, Free Videos!: $44
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion from Downtown West Palm Beach: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Experience With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $80
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Peanut Island Guided Tour Palm Beach Singer Island: $90
  • Cruise the Palm Beach Intracoastal on a 90 minute Tour : $65
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures with Go Pro : $300
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Guided Clear Kayak Eco-Tour of Jupiter: $89

Typical Entertainment Prices in Moab

For Moab, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Slickrock Trail Pass
    $5.00

Tours and Activities in Moab

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Moab.

  • BEST! Hell's Revenge U-Drive 4X4 Tour in Moab +Dinosaur Tracks!: $48
  • 2 hour Moab Ebike Petroglyph Tour: $117
  • 2.5 Hour Moab Hell's Revenge You Drive Off Road UTV Tour: $149
  • 3-Hours Sunset Arches National Park Pavement Sights Tour: $173
  • 3.5 Hour HELL'S REVENGE and FINS & THINGS You Drive UTV Tour: $239
  • 30+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $85
  • Afternoon Arches National Park 4x4 Tour: $210
  • Afternoon Canyonlands Island In The Sky 4X4 Tour: $210
  • Arches National Park 4x4 Adventure from Moab: $197
  • Arches National Park Airplane Tour: $249
  • Arches National Park Back Country Adventure from Moab: $210
  • Arches National Park Backcountry Tour: $252

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Moab $66


When comparing the travel costs between West Palm Beach and Moab, we can see that Moab 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 West Palm Beach Expensive? and Is Moab Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Moab?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Moab. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Moab, 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.