A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Miami vs. West Palm Beach for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Miami 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 Miami and West Palm Beach can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a glamorous, exciting, and diverse beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping. See Miami travel costs.

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. See West Palm Beach travel costs.

Miami and West Palm Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Miami or West Palm Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Miami than West Palm Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while West Palm Beach is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Miami is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

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

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

Miami is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Miami is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Nightlife?

Miami is very popular for nightlife. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

West Palm Beach offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Music?

Miami is very popular for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Miami and West Palm Beach.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Miami is a perfect choice. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

West Palm Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

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

West Palm Beach is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Beaches?

Miami and West Palm Beach are world-class choices for a beach vacation.

With world-famous beaches, Miami is a very popular vacation destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

The beaches in West Palm Beach are among the best in the world. 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 Miami or West Palm Beach?

Miami is very popular for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Miami. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Miami or West Palm Beach.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

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 Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Couples?

Both Miami and West Palm Beach are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

West Palm Beach is a great beach city 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.

Is Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Miami or West Palm Beach Better for Students?

Miami is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Miami and West Palm Beach.

You'll find some public transit in Miami, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

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.

Is Miami or West Palm Beach a more walkable city?

Miami is a great beach 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.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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 Miami Worth Visiting? and Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in West Palm Beach or Miami?

How long in Miami or West Palm Beach?

Both Miami 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 Miami. Usually, 7 days is a good amount of time for Miami, and 3-7 days is enough time in West Palm Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami 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 Miami.

One day in Miami or West Palm Beach?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling that this fun-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or West Palm Beach?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in West Palm Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or West Palm Beach?

Miami is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This beach city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

West Palm Beach is a fun place to experience. In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Miami or West Palm Beach?

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Miami. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

In West Palm Beach, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this diverse destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Miami or West Palm Beach?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami or West Palm Beach in the Summer?

Both West Palm Beach and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Miami for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Miami is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Miami 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 Miami. In the summer, Miami often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Miami 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 Miami. Miami usually gets less rain in July than West Palm Beach. Miami 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 Miami or West Palm Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and West Palm Beach. The autumn months attract visitors to Miami because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Miami is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Miami 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 Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during autumn. Miami 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. Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Miami usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Miami 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 Miami or West Palm Beach in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as West Palm Beach. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine.

In January, Miami is generally around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Daily temperatures in Miami 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 Miami this time of the year. In the winter, Miami often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 243 hours of full sun.

Miami usually gets less rain in January than West Palm Beach. Miami 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 Miami or West Palm Beach in the Spring?

Both West Palm Beach and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Miami for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches.

Miami is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Miami 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 Miami. Miami usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Miami usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Miami 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 Miami