A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Kennebunkport vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kennebunkport and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Kennebunkport and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Kennebunkport is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Kennebunkport and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Kennebunkport is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Kennebunkport different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Kennebunkport or Palm Springs.

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Both Kennebunkport and Palm Springs offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kennebunkport. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Palm Springs. 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.

Is Kennebunkport or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is very popular for nightlife. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Kennebunkport or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Kennebunkport. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.


Is Kennebunkport or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is great for hiking. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

If you're looking to go shopping, Kennebunkport and Palm Springs both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Palm Springs is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Kennebunkport or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kennebunkport or Palm Springs.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Palm Springs is a very kid-friendly town. 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.


Is Kennebunkport or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

With fun activities for couples, both Kennebunkport and Palm Springs make for a great place to visit.

Kennebunkport is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

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.

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

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Kennebunkport and Palm Springs both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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.

Is Kennebunkport or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Palm Springs

Kennebunkport and Palm Springs are good when it comes to walkability.

Kennebunkport is somewhat walkable. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Kennebunkport or Palm Springs. In our opinion, Palm Springs has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Palm Springs than Kennebunkport. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Kennebunkport. 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 Kennebunkport. 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 Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kennebunkport 2-4 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 outdoorsy 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 Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Kennebunkport is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Kennebunkport is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 chic 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 Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Kennebunkport is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Kennebunkport?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $220, 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 Kennebunkport and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $67
    Palm Springs $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kennebunkport.

  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $27
  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $30
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $50
  • 100+ Self Guided Driving & Walking Tours by Action: $100
  • Best of Palm Springs Small Group Tour w/ Aerial Tram: $166
  • Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ: $129
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Desert Healing Experience: $175
  • Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure: $139
  • Food Adventure Game: $99
  • Indian Canyons Walking Tour by Jeep from Palm Springs: $200
  • Joshua Tree National Park Driving Tour : $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour: $235
  • Joshua Tree National Park Scenic Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Palm Springs $13


When comparing the travel costs between Kennebunkport and Palm Springs, we can see that Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport or Palm Springs?

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 Kennebunkport or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Kennebunkport during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Kennebunkport is cooler than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Kennebunkport is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kennebunkport in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

In October, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Kennebunkport is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 21°F (-6°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Kennebunkport usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Kennebunkport is much colder than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In April, Kennebunkport usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)