A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Everglades National Park vs. West Palm Beach for Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a pristine, adventure-filled, and unique national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a vibrant, fun-filled, and diverse beach area. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in West Palm Beach than Everglades National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. West Palm Beach is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Everglades National Park is more popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Everglades National Park is well known for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Also, West Palm Beach is famous for Rosemary Square.

How is Everglades National Park different from West Palm Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

Everglades National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Everglades National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

Dining out at restaurants in both Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach can be an enjoyable experience.

Everglades National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

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.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. 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.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.


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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Everglades National Park 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.

Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Everglades National Park 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.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

Everglades National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

Everglades National Park is mediocre for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Everglades National Park can be found for those interested. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in West Palm Beach. 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.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

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.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.


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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

Everglades National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Everglades National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

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

Everglades National Park
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known 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.

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.


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

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

How long in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

Both Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than in Everglades National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Everglades National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in West Palm Beach.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Everglades 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 Everglades National Park.


  • How many days in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Everglades National Park 2-3 
    West Palm Beach 3-7

One day in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

The unique destination of Everglades National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in 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.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

The national park of Everglades National Park offers . 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.

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the fun-filled destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

Everglades National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This national park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

Many people enjoy the when visiting Everglades National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, West Palm Beach or Everglades National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $146, while the average daily cost in West Palm Beach is $330. 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 Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    West Palm Beach $234
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    West Palm Beach $468
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach

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


Hotels in West Palm Beach


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Everglades National Park $56
    West Palm Beach $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

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

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $83
  • Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $41

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

Prices for flights to both West Palm Beach and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $31
    West Palm Beach $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: $85
  • Downtown Food Tour: $85
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $101
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Historic Neighborhood Food Tour: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    West Palm Beach $19

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • 2 Hour Chokoloskee Island Kayak Tour: $80
  • 4 Hour Everglades Kayak Tour: $120
  • 6 Hour Everglades Mangroves Kayak Tour: $200
  • Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours): $120
  • Everglades National Park Small Group Guided Boating & Walking Tour Expedition: $200
  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $48
  • Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park: $200
  • Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour: $200
  • Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

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

  • 2-Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster Park, Blue Heron Bridge: $60
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Beginner Snorkel Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $49
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $90
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Christmas Light Cruise from Jupiter: $75
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Tour in Jupiter: $79
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Historical Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise in Palm Beach: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    West Palm Beach $39


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

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



When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach?

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 Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach in the Summer?

Both West Palm Beach and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Everglades National Park in July average around 82°F (28°C), and West Palm Beach averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during summer. Everglades National Park gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. It's quite rainy in Everglades National Park. In July, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    West Palm Beach 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach in the Autumn?

Both West Palm Beach and Everglades National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Everglades National Park is generally around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 78°F (26°C), and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the autumn, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Everglades National Park gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 275 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets less rain in October than West Palm Beach. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Everglades National Park is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and West Palm Beach. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Everglades National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine.

Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during winter. Everglades National Park gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Everglades National Park usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or West Palm Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as West Palm Beach. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Everglades National Park in April average around 74°F (24°C), and West Palm Beach averages at about 74°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 300 hours of full sun.

Everglades National Park usually gets less rain in April than West Palm Beach. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for West Palm Beach and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park West Palm Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)