A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe? 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 diverse, vibrant, and fun-filled beach area. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a scenic, breathtaking, and idyllic town. Many visitors also come to South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

West Palm Beach and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in South Lake Tahoe. Although West Palm Beach and South Lake Tahoe are popular destinations, South Lake Tahoe has more sights and attractions for tourists. South Lake Tahoe is very popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is famous for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. South Lake Tahoe is famous for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting. It is also well known for the Heavenly Gondola.

How is West Palm Beach different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between South Lake Tahoe and West Palm Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for skiing. However, West Palm Beach is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

West Palm Beach is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

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

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

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

South Lake Tahoe is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for its resorts. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

West Palm Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

West Palm Beach is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to West Palm Beach to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

South Lake Tahoe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for the beach. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

The beaches in West Palm Beach are among the best in 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.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.


Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in South Lake Tahoe. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe because of it's amazing beauty. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

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


Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe 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, South Lake Tahoe is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

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 South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is very popular for romance. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its romantic activities.

South Lake Tahoe makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

West Palm Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit South Lake Tahoe. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

West Palm Beach is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town 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 South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a great town for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

South Lake Tahoe is very walkable. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

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 South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    South Lake Tahoe 3-5

One day in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the diverse destination of West Palm Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The idyllic destination of South Lake Tahoe offers skiing and nightlife. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The town of South Lake Tahoe offers nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

South Lake Tahoe is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 South Lake Tahoe?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting South Lake Tahoe. 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.


Which place is cheaper, South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    West Palm Beach $378
    South Lake Tahoe $146

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $378, while the average daily cost in South Lake Tahoe is $146. 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 South Lake Tahoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    South Lake Tahoe $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    South Lake Tahoe $108
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and South Lake Tahoe

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe? 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 South Lake Tahoe


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 South Lake Tahoe Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    South Lake Tahoe $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

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

  • Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) - Departure Private Transfer: $42
  • Palm Beach International Airport: Transfer to Palm Beach: $70
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach: $72
  • Private Transfer from Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port: $72
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $84
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Business Car: $103
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $109
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $109
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $119
  • Limo Service Transfer To or From Palm Beach Airport and Hotels: $139
  • Private Transfer from PBI to Palm Beach City : $149

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

Prices for flights to both South Lake Tahoe 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
    South Lake Tahoe $66

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in South Lake Tahoe

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in South Lake Tahoe.

  • Persian Cooking Class with Private Chef: $120
  • Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise: $150

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    South Lake Tahoe $56

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

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

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in West Palm Beach by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Wish You Were Here Tourism in the Palm Beaches Exhibit Entry: $12
  • 45-Minute Candy Evolution Tour with Guide: $13
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Sound Bath Meditation and Yoga Experience: Retail Therapy Gift for Women: $25
  • Stuart Ghost Tour: Sinister Sins & Shadows Ghost Tour: $32
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • 2 ½ - Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster park, Free Videos!: $44
  • Guided Snorkel Experience, Free Videos in West Palm Beach: $45
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Scenic Sunset Cruise in West Palm Beach: $51
  • Sun & Sightseeing Hakuna Matata Catamaran Cruise in Palm Beach: $51

Tours and Activities in South Lake Tahoe

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for South Lake Tahoe are as follows:

  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour at Cave Rock: $110
  • "Lake Tahoe 101" : See The Whole Lake! 6 HR Shared Tour by Van.: $199
  • 2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe: $140
  • 2-Hour Lake Tahoe Adventures ATV Tours in the Desert: $220
  • Clear Kayak Adventure Tour: $198
  • Clear Kayak Paddle Tour: $150
  • Clear Kayak Tour: $140
  • Driving Lake Tahoe: A Self-Guided Tour From Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe: $12
  • Eco Canoe Tour: $258
  • Electric Dirtbike Adventure in Lake Tahoe: $200
  • Emerald Bay Helicopter Tour of Lake Tahoe: $139
  • Emerald Bay Private Boat Tours: $690

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    South Lake Tahoe $34

Sample the Local Flavors in South Lake Tahoe

Also in South Lake Tahoe, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Scavenger Adventure and Lake Tahoe Bar Crawl: $15
  • Lake Tahoe: Emerald Bay Sunset Wine Tasting Yacht Cruise: $150


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between West Palm Beach and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is South Lake Tahoe much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to South Lake Tahoe would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe.

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 South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or South Lake Tahoe?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and South Lake Tahoe, 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.