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

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Palm Springs? 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. It's also known for nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Palm Springs travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although West Palm Beach and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, and shopping, while West Palm Beach is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Palm Springs is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Palm Springs is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. 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.

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 Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is very popular for nightlife. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

West Palm Beach offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is West Palm Beach or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach and Palm Springs offer a relatively similar set of world-class luxury resort options.

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.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Palm Springs is a perfect choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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

West Palm Beach is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a great city for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. 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.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Palm Springs?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Palm Springs Better for Families?

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

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.

Palm Springs is a very kid-friendly beach area. 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 West Palm Beach or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Palm Springs make for a great 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.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

West Palm Beach is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is West Palm Beach or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach and Palm Springs are good when it comes to 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.

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

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

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

How long in West Palm Beach or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either West Palm Beach or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Couples should spend more time in Palm Springs than West Palm Beach. 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 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 Palm Springs.

One day in West Palm Beach or Palm Springs?

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this vibrant beach area offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

The ritzy destination of Palm Springs offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 Palm Springs?

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The city of Palm Springs offers food and 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 Palm Springs?

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this fun-filled destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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 Palm Springs?

West Palm Beach is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

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 Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Palm Springs?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Palm Springs, 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 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 West Palm Beach or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and West Palm Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Palm Springs. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Palm Springs. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the winter for the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Palm Springs and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches during these months.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and West Palm Beach