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

Should you visit Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit Daytona 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.

Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach is a fun, party-hard, and energetic beach city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and beaches.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Daytona Beach and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Daytona Beach than Palm Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Daytona Beach is better known for its music, beaches, and big city activities, while Palm Springs is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, hiking, and shopping. Daytona Beach is well known for its spring break culture, wild parties, and the Daytona 500 NASCAR race. Also, Daytona Beach is famous for The Daytona International Speedway. Palm Springs is well known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture.

How is Daytona 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 Daytona Beach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palm Springs. 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.

Daytona Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its restaurants.

Dining out in Palm Springs is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Daytona Beach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This beach is more about the parties and drinks than it is about the food.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Both Daytona Beach and Palm Springs are world-class when it comes to partying.

Daytona Beach is a world class party destination. Spring break is when the parties are at their peak. For the most active nightlife head to A1A from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Ponce Inlet, Main and Beach Streets, and Seabreeze Boulevard, ONE DAYTONA and International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach, and Granada Boulevard in Ormond Beach.

Palm Springs is a must-see party destination. 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.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Music?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Daytona Beach is very good for live music. However, Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Daytona Beach. You can see live music at the Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Bandshell and The Roof.

Palm Springs is not a live music destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Palm Springs is a great choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Daytona Beach has a few resort options worth checking out. Many resorts in the area focus more on affordability than luxury. The oceanfront hotels usually have nice beachfront pools and rooms with balconies and oceanfront views. You'll pay a bit more for the waterfront rooms.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Daytona Beach is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Daytona Beach to enjoy the beach. The city's beaches are lively and festive, so if you're looking for a beach with music, drinking, and partying, then this is your place. In the surrounding areas you'll find some quieter, more family-friendly beaches. It's also best to avoid the Spring Break crowds if you're hoping for a quieter and more family-friendly vacation.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Daytona Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Daytona Beach is a good destination for shopping. Souvenir shops and t-shirt shops are the main shopping you'll find in this area. The boardwalk is lined with gimmicky shops where you can pick up magnets or beach paraphernalia.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its kid-friendly activities.

Palm Springs is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Daytona Beach is not always a place people visit with their families. Although it's best avoided during spring break, Daytona with kids can be fun when the crowds aren't too bad. There are water parks, surfing lessons, and of course the beach. The restaurants are usually family-friendly as well with many offering kid's menus and early opening hours.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a well-known place for couples. Also, Daytona Beach is not as famous, but is still a good beach city to visit for romance.

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.

Daytona Beach is a nice destination for couples. While romance isn't exactly what comes to mind when you first think of Daytona, couples who like to party and be out and about will enjoy a visit to Daytona Beach. There's plenty to do and some very great seafood restaurants in the area, so it's not hard to turn it into a couple's destination.


Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs Better for Students?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Daytona Beach is an amazing beach city to visit for students. However, Palm Springs is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Daytona Beach. It's one of the original Spring Break destinations, and the trend continues. If you're a student looking to cut loose, you'll find plenty of likeminded vacationers in the area, with many bars and hotels catering specifically to the younger crowd.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

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

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Daytona Beach. There's limited transportation options around town so you really must have a private vehicle. If you've been out drinking, you can call a taxi or an Uber.

Is Daytona Beach or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Daytona Beach
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Daytona Beach is not a good beach city for its walkability.

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

Daytona Beach is not a very walkable beach city. This area requires a car if you want to access restaurants, nightlife, or anything away from your hotel.


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

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

How long in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Palm Springs than Daytona 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 Daytona 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.


  • How many days in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Daytona Beach 7 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

In Daytona Beach, many people enjoy the live music and nightlife that this fun beach city offers. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the chic destination of Palm Springs. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Daytona Beach is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

You'll find live music and nightlife around the lively destination of Daytona Beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy destination of Palm Springs. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


A week in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Daytona Beach is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Daytona Beach?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Daytona Beach is $211, while the average daily cost in Palm Springs is $206. 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 Daytona Beach and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Daytona Beach $84
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Daytona Beach $168
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Daytona Beach and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Daytona Beach or Palm Springs? 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 Daytona Beach


Hotels in Palm Springs


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: Daytona Beach Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Daytona Beach $53
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Daytona Beach

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Daytona Beach:

  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $185
  • Private Transfer from Daytona to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $200
  • Private Transfer from New Smyrna Beach to Port Canaveral: $239

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to ONTARIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) to SANTA ANA - Arrival Private Transfer: $128
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Palm Springs Airport PSP to Snow Summit-Arrival Private Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Palm Desert / Indian Wells: $135
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to INDIAN WELLS - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Palm Springs Airport to Desert Hot Springs Round-Trip Transfer: $175
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262

Is it cheaper to fly into Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Daytona 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
    Daytona Beach $80
    Palm Springs $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Daytona Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Daytona Beach.

  • Polynesian Fire and Dinner Show Ticket in Daytona Beach: $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Daytona Beach $28
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Daytona Beach

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Daytona Beach are as follows:

  • St. Johns River Nature Cruise at Blue Spring State Park : $28
  • Wildlife Tour of Indian River Lagoon with Experienced Captain: $32
  • The Great Daytona Wine Bar Tour: $40
  • Guided Wildlife Eco Kayak Tour in New Smyrna Beach: $45
  • Zipline Adventure through Tuscawilla Park: $59
  • New Smyrna Dolphin and Manatee Kayak and SUP Adventure Tour: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Stand Up Paddleboard Tour in Daytona Beach: $65
  • Orlando Manatee and Natural Spring Adventure Tour at Blue Springs: $65
  • Dolphin and Manatee Kayak Tour of Daytona Beach: $65
  • Ormond Beach Manatee and Nature Tour Kayaking or Paddle Boarding: $65
  • Guided Kayaking or Standup Paddling Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Coastal Discovery Cruise: $75

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palm Springs are as follows:

  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree: $13
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • City and Desert App-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $25
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $30
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Daytona Beach $43
    Palm Springs $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Daytona Beach

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Daytona Beach:

  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl: $38
  • Dive Bar Bus Crawl from Daytona Beach: $40


When comparing the travel costs between Daytona Beach and Palm Springs, we can see that Daytona Beach is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Daytona Beach Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Daytona Beach has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Daytona 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 Daytona Beach or Palm Springs?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Daytona Beach or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Daytona Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Daytona Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Daytona Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Daytona Beach. In July, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Daytona Beach gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Daytona Beach 81°F (27°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

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

Both Palm Springs and Daytona Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Daytona Beach for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Daytona Beach is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Daytona Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Daytona Beach. Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Daytona Beach gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Daytona Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Daytona Beach and Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Daytona Beach in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Daytona Beach is around the same temperature as Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Daytona Beach averages around 58°F (14°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Daytona Beach usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Daytona Beach gets 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Daytona Beach 58°F (14°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Daytona Beach as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Daytona Beach for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Daytona Beach is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Daytona Beach in April average around 69°F (21°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

Daytona Beach usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Daytona Beach gets 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Daytona Beach 69°F (21°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 58°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 65°F (18°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 69°F (21°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 75°F (24°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 80°F (26°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 6.2 inches (157 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 80°F (26°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 66°F (19°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 60°F (16°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)