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

Should you visit Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. 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 food, beaches, and hiking.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Saint Simons and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Saint Simons 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 museums, nightlife, resorts, and hiking, while Saint Simons is known for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Saint Simons and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Saint Simons is popular for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Saint Simons different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


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

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Palm Springs can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Palm Springs is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury 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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.


Is Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Saint Simons is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Palm Springs. 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 Saint Simons. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Shopping is a popular activity in both Palm Springs and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. 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 Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Saint Simons or Palm Springs.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. 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 Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

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

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Palm Springs is a great island if you're traveling as 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 Saint Simons or Palm Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.


Is Saint Simons or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Palm Springs

Saint Simons and Palm Springs both are good when exploring on foot.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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 Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

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

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

One day in Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Saint Simons 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. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this ritzy city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Saint Simons is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Palm Springs 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. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Saint Simons 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Saint Simons 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 place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Saint Simons?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, 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 Saint Simons and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    Palm Springs $53

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint Simons $16
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree: $13
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • City and Desert App-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $25
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $30
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    Palm Springs $13


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

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


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Palm Springs?

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

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 Simons or Palm Springs in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Palm Springs. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Palm Springs. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Palm Springs. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 69°F (20°C).

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Palm Springs in the Winter?

Both Palm Springs and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saint Simons 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.

In January, Saint Simons is generally cooler than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

In January, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Saint Simons is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Saint Simons usually gets more rain in April than Palm Springs. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Saint Simons

Saint Simons Palm Springs
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)