A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Martha's Vineyard vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

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 Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs. 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.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a peaceful, affluent, and coastal island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Martha's Vineyard, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its museums, nightlife, and hiking, while Martha's Vineyard is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Martha's Vineyard and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Martha's Vineyard is well known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping.

How is Martha's Vineyard different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Martha's Vineyard offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Is the Food Better in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Martha's Vineyard has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

Palm Springs has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

There are first-rate resorts to choose from in both Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs.

Vacationers flock to Martha's Vineyard for its luxury resorts. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

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.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Martha's Vineyard is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a great city for hiking. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Is the Shopping Better in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

If you're looking to go shopping, Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs both offer plenty of high quality spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Palm Springs is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

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

Martha's Vineyard is a family-friendly place to visit. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Is Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Martha's Vineyard has plenty to offer. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

Palm Springs makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the 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 Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs are notable when it comes to walkability.

Martha's Vineyard is a somewhat walkable island. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Martha's Vineyard?

How long in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Martha's Vineyard 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, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Martha's Vineyard, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

Families should spend more time in Palm Springs than Martha's Vineyard. 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 Martha's Vineyard than Palm Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Martha's Vineyard that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs than Martha's Vineyard 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.

One day in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Palm Springs, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

Martha's Vineyard 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.

With museums and nightlife around the ritzy city of Palm Springs, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Most people come for the beaches. 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 outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs?

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs, we can see that Martha's Vineyard is more expensive. And not only is Palm Springs much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Palm Springs would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Palm Springs 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 Martha's Vineyard would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Martha's Vineyard than you might in Palm Springs.

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

When is the best time to visit Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Martha's Vineyard during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Martha's Vineyard is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Martha's Vineyard gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Martha's Vineyard and Palm Springs. Many visitors come to Martha's Vineyard in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Martha's Vineyard is generally much colder than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Martha's Vineyard average around 53°F (12°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In October, Martha's Vineyard usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Martha's Vineyard as well as Palm Springs. Most visitors come to Martha's Vineyard for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Martha's Vineyard can be very cold during winter. Martha's Vineyard is much colder than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Martha's Vineyard averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Martha's Vineyard usually gets more rain in January than Palm Springs. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Martha's Vineyard or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Martha's Vineyard is much colder than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Martha's Vineyard in April average around 48°F (9°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Martha's Vineyard usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Martha's Vineyard gets 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Martha's Vineyard