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

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

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a relaxed, fun-filled, and underrated coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Saint Petersburg and West Palm Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint Petersburg than West Palm Beach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Saint Petersburg is more popular for its museums, food, and shopping, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling. Saint Petersburg is popular for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities. It is also home to St. Pete Beach. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Petersburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Saint Petersburg. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

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 Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is great for nightlife. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to West Palm Beach for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, West Palm Beach is a perfect choice. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

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

West Palm Beach is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Saint Petersburg is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

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 Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Saint Petersburg is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Saint Petersburg. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach Better for Families?

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

Saint Petersburg is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly coastal city. 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 Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach Better for Couples?

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

Saint Petersburg is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

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

West Palm Beach is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach is very good for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area on foot.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Petersburg Worth Visiting? and Is West Palm Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in West Palm Beach or Saint Petersburg?

How long in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Both Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint Petersburg, and 3-7 days is enough time in West Palm Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg.

One day in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

The fun-filled destination of Saint Petersburg offers nightlife and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of West Palm Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

The coastal city of Saint Petersburg offers food and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Saint Petersburg is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Saint Petersburg. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach in the Summer?

Both West Palm Beach and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Petersburg. Saint Petersburg usually receives less sunshine than West Palm Beach during summer. Saint Petersburg gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. It's quite rainy in Saint Petersburg. In July, Saint Petersburg usually receives more rain than West Palm Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach in the Autumn?

Both West Palm Beach and Saint Petersburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint Petersburg because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint Petersburg is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Petersburg in October average around 76°F (24°C), and West Palm Beach averages at about 78°F (25°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Petersburg. In the autumn, Saint Petersburg often gets less sunshine than West Palm Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 275 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in October than West Palm Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Petersburg and West Palm Beach. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint Petersburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine.

In January, Saint Petersburg is generally cooler than West Palm Beach. Daily temperatures in Saint Petersburg average around 59°F (15°C), and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In Saint Petersburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Petersburg usually receives less sunshine than West Palm Beach during winter. Saint Petersburg gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Petersburg usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint Petersburg or West Palm Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint Petersburg as well as West Palm Beach. Many travelers come to Saint Petersburg for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to West Palm Beach in the spring for the beaches.

Saint Petersburg is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Petersburg averages around 73°F (23°C) in April, and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 74°F (23°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 Saint Petersburg this time of the year. In the spring, Saint Petersburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 300 hours of full sun.

Saint Petersburg usually gets less rain in April than West Palm Beach. Saint Petersburg gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Saint Petersburg. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for West Palm Beach and Saint Petersburg