A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Saint Simons for Resorts, Beaches, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Saint Simons?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Saint Simons? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches. See Saint Simons travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Saint Simons?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although West Palm Beach and Saint Simons are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach.

How is West Palm Beach different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Saint Simons is a great island 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 Saint Simons. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in West Palm Beach know how to have a good time. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

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

West Palm Beach is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a popular place for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Saint Simons?

Saint Simons is a great island for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons More Beautiful?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, West Palm Beach is not a destination known for its beauty.

Saint Simons is a gorgeous place to visit. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

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

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons Better for Families?

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

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.

Saint Simons is a very kid-friendly beach area. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons 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, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in West Palm Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is West Palm Beach or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach and Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either West Palm Beach or Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons.

Families should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.

One day in West Palm Beach or Saint Simons?

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.

Saint Simons is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Saint Simons?

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.

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Saint Simons?

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.

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island 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 Saint Simons?

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.

Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 Saint Simons, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Saint Simons much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saint Simons would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.

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 Saint Simons Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Saint Simons?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Saint Simons, 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 Saint Simons?

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 Saint Simons in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Saint Simons. The summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

West Palm Beach is around the same temperature as Saint Simons in the summer. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the summer, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Saint Simons. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 286 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Saint Simons. West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Saint Simons. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

Both Saint Simons and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Saint Simons. Typically, the autumn temperatures in West Palm Beach in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Saint Simons averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Saint Simons during autumn. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 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 Saint Simons in the Winter?

Both Saint Simons and West Palm Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 65°F (19°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the winter, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Saint Simons. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 191 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Saint Simons. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Saint Simons in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Saint Simons. Many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Saint Simons in the spring. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Simons during spring. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 285 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and West Palm Beach