A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Ocean City for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ocean City? 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. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a energetic, fun-filled, and laid back city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Ocean City travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Ocean City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ocean City than West Palm Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ocean City 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. Ocean City is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports. Also, Ocean City is famous for the Ocean City boardwalk. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from Ocean City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

While most people don't head to Ocean City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Ocean City 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 Ocean City. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

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 Ocean City Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find high quality options in both West Palm Beach and Ocean City.

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.

Ocean City offers plenty to do in the evening. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Is West Palm Beach or Ocean City Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ocean City. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

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

West Palm Beach is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Ocean City Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Ocean City is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

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.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

Ocean City is adequate for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ocean City is a good destination for shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Ocean City Better for Families?

Ocean City 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, Ocean City is a very family-friendly destination. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Ocean City Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for couples. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

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

West Palm Beach is a popular place for its public transit. However, Ocean City is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

West Palm Beach has a few 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 mostly limited in Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

Is West Palm Beach or Ocean City a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city 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.

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable beach area. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

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

Should I spend more time in Ocean City or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

Both West Palm Beach and Ocean City have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Ocean City. 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City.

One day in West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The fun-filled destination of Ocean City offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Ocean City?

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The city of Ocean City offers food and nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

West Palm Beach, a popular beach area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Ocean City is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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 Ocean City?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The active city of Ocean City offers food and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Ocean City, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Ocean City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ocean City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ocean City 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 Ocean City.

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 Ocean City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Ocean City?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Ocean City, 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 Ocean City?

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 West Palm Beach or Ocean City in the Summer?

Both Ocean City and West Palm Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Ocean City. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Ocean City fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Ocean City gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Ocean City. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ocean City in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Ocean City. Also, many travelers come to Ocean City for the shopping scene.

West Palm Beach is much warmer than Ocean City in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Ocean City fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Ocean City. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ocean City in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Ocean City. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ocean City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ocean City can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Ocean City. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Ocean City averages at about 35°F (2°C).

West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Ocean City. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Ocean City in the Spring?

Both Ocean City and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Ocean City for the beaches during these months.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Ocean City. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Ocean City fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Ocean City. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Ocean City and West Palm Beach