A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Puerto Vallarta vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Food, and Families

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

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 Puerto Vallarta and Palm Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a cultural, coastal, and colorful town. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Puerto Vallarta and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Puerto Vallarta than Palm Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Puerto Vallarta is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, while Palm Springs is more popular for its nightlife and hiking. Palm Springs is more touristy than Puerto Vallarta and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Puerto Vallarta is well known for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Also, Puerto Vallarta is famous for the Malecon.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Puerto Vallarta. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Puerto Vallarta and Palm Springs.

Dining out in Puerto Vallarta is an experience not to be missed. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Palm Springs is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Puerto Vallarta has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Puerto Vallarta and Palm Springs.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Puerto Vallarta is a perfect choice. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Puerto Vallarta. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Palm Springs are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Puerto Vallarta. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palm Springs. 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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs.

Puerto Vallarta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Palm Springs are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Puerto Vallarta. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

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

Puerto Vallarta is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Puerto Vallarta has a few public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly 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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta is notable for its walkability. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Puerto Vallarta is very walkable. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

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 Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Puerto Vallarta due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Vallarta, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Palm Springs 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 Puerto Vallarta.

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

The outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife 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 Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

Puerto Vallarta is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The city of Palm Springs offers food and shopping. 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.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

Puerto Vallarta 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Palm Springs. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or Palm Springs?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta 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.