A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Fort Lauderdale vs. West Palm Beach for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

West Palm Beach

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

Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than West Palm Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

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

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Resorts?

There are amazing resorts to choose from in both Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

West Palm Beach is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Is Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach both offer amazing beaches.

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach are superb family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, West Palm Beach is very family-friendly. 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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Couples?

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

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

West Palm Beach is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in West Palm Beach, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is very walkable. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in West Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

The spirited destination of Fort Lauderdale offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches 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.

The fun-filled destination of West Palm Beach offers nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches 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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

The coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

The beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This beach area 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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

The high energy coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

The diverse beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. 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 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, 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 Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach in the Summer?

Both West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 316 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 Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in July than West Palm Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and West Palm Beach averages at about 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as West Palm Beach. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine during these months.

In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 65°F (19°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 Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 243 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than West Palm Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach in the Spring?

Both West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale