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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Monterey?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Monterey? 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.

Monterey

Monterey is a laid back, relaxing, and nature-oriented city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Monterey travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Monterey: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monterey than West Palm Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monterey is better known for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Monterey is well known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. Also, Monterey is famous for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is West Palm Beach different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Monterey is a great city for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Monterey is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Monterey. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both West Palm Beach and Monterey.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. 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.

Monterey offers plenty to do in the evening. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is West Palm Beach or Monterey Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to West Palm Beach for its luxury resorts. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

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

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is West Palm Beach or Monterey Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

West Palm Beach offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Monterey?

Monterey is a great city for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly beach area. 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.

Is West Palm Beach or Monterey Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Monterey make for a superb 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.

Monterey is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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

Monterey is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

West Palm Beach is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

West Palm Beach has some public transit options. 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 generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is West Palm Beach or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great city for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

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

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

How long in West Palm Beach or Monterey?

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

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

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

One day in West Palm Beach or Monterey?

The beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The nature-oriented destination of Monterey offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Monterey?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Monterey offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Monterey?

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Monterey is a great place to explore. This city 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 Monterey?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that West Palm Beach has to offer. This beach area offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Monterey. 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 Monterey, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Monterey much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Monterey would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Monterey 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 Monterey.

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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Monterey?

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

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Monterey. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Monterey. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Monterey in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Monterey. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

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

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Monterey. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Monterey 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 Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Monterey in the Spring?

Both Monterey and West Palm Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

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

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Monterey. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Monterey 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 Monterey and West Palm Beach