A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Yosemite National Park for Resorts, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park? 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.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and popular national park. Many visitors also come to Yosemite National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

West Palm Beach and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park than West Palm Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yosemite National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Also, Yosemite National Park is famous for El Capitan. 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 Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

Both West Palm Beach and Yosemite National Park offer respectable local cuisine and restaurants.

West Palm Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Yosemite National Park. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.


Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

West Palm Beach is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for nightlife.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Yosemite National Park. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

West Palm Beach is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Yosemite National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park 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 Yosemite National Park. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

West Palm Beach is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

West Palm Beach is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

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.

Yosemite National Park is not a beach destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very popular for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

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


Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park.

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.

Yosemite National Park is a very kid-friendly beach area. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

With fun activities for couples, both West Palm Beach and Yosemite National Park 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.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Many backpackers frequent Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

West Palm Beach and Yosemite National Park both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.

Yosemite National Park has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Is West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Yosemite National Park

West Palm Beach is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park 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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable beach area. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park?

Both West Palm Beach and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, West Palm Beach has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in West Palm Beach than Yosemite National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in West Palm Beach than Yosemite National Park. 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 Yosemite National Park. 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 Yosemite National Park 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 Yosemite National Park.


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park?

The beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. 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 breathtaking destination of Yosemite National Park offers . People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that hiking 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 Yosemite National Park?

The diverse destination of West Palm Beach offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. This beach area offers something for everyone. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The national park of Yosemite National Park offers . 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in West Palm Beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite National Park is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. This national park 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 Yosemite National Park?

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. The destination of West Palm Beach offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach area.

The popular national park of Yosemite National Park offers . 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.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    West Palm Beach $378
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $378, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park? 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 Yosemite National Park


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 Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Yosemite National Park $41

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
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $109
  • Limo Service Transfer To or From Palm Beach Airport and Hotels: $139
  • Private Transfer from PBI to Palm Beach City : $149
  • Cruise Port of Palm Beach to Palm Beach Arrival Private Transfer: $155
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park 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
    Yosemite National Park $69

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

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

  • 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
  • Sun & Sightseeing Hakuna Matata Catamaran Cruise in Palm Beach: $51
  • Scenic Sunset Cruise in West Palm Beach: $51
  • Palm Beach: Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise: $54

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Family Explorers - Customizable Private Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Family Explorers: Customizable Private Tour: $399
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Yosemite Team Building Adventure Hike: $293
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Yosemite National Park $11


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

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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.