A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Berkeley for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Berkeley? 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.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a vibrant, fun-filled, and diverse beach area. Other popular activities here include beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

West Palm Beach and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Berkeley than West Palm Beach. Berkeley is bigger than West Palm Beach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Berkeley is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden.

How is West Palm Beach different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

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

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


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

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great 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 Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 West Palm Beach or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both West Palm Beach and Berkeley.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. 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.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is West Palm Beach or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

West Palm Beach is renowned for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

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

Berkeley is not a resort destination.


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

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

West Palm Beach is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to West Palm Beach to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

West Palm Beach is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is West Palm Beach or Berkeley Better for Families?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

West Palm Beach is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

West Palm Beach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly beach area. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is West Palm Beach or Berkeley Better for Couples?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

West Palm Beach is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

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

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Berkeley is very popular with the backpacker crowd. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is West Palm Beach or Berkeley Better for Students?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its public transit.

Berkeley has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

West Palm Beach has a few public transit options. 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 West Palm Beach or Berkeley a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach
Berkeley

Berkeley is very popular for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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

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

How long in West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both West Palm Beach and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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


  • How many days in West Palm Beach or Berkeley? Ideal Length of Stay
    West Palm Beach 3-7 
    Berkeley 2-3

One day in West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

The beach area of West Palm Beach offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The diverse destination of Berkeley offers nightlife and food. 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 West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The city of Berkeley offers food and shopping. 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 West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

West Palm Beach is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that West Palm Beach has to offer. This beach area offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. 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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Berkeley or West Palm Beach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in West Palm Beach is $330, while the average daily cost in Berkeley is $190. 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 West Palm Beach and Berkeley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    West Palm Beach $234
    Berkeley $131
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    West Palm Beach $468
    Berkeley $262
Compare Hotels in West Palm Beach and Berkeley

Looking for a hotel in West Palm Beach or Berkeley? 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 West Palm Beach


Hotels in Berkeley


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: West Palm Beach Hotel Prices and Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    West Palm Beach $49
    Berkeley $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach Port - Arrival Transfer: $41
  • Palm Beach hotels to Cruise Port of Palm Beach - Departure Private Transfer : $41
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - Arrival Private Transfer : $41
  • Palm Beach Airport (PBI) to Palm Beach City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $83
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Business Car: $94
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $109

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $88
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $64
  • Oakland hotel or address to Oakland Airport (OAK) - Departure Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

Prices for flights to both Berkeley and West Palm Beach 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
    West Palm Beach $66
    Berkeley $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

For West Palm Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Food Tour: $85
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $101
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Historic Neighborhood Food Tour: $101

Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    West Palm Beach $19
    Berkeley $30

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 45-Minute Candy Evolution Tour with Guide: $13
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in West Palm Beach by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Sound Bath Meditation and Yoga Experience: Retail Therapy Gift for Women: $25
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Beginner Snorkel Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $49
  • Tour and Photoshoot along Beautiful Historic Worth Avenue: $49
  • Tour and Photoshoot along Beautiful Historic Worth Ave: $49
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Scenic Sunset Cruise in West Palm Beach: $51
  • Historical Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise in Palm Beach: $51
  • Palm Beach: Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise: $54

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

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

  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $14
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    West Palm Beach $39
    Berkeley $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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

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


Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Berkeley, 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 West Palm Beach or Berkeley?

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 West Palm Beach or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and West Palm Beach during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in July than Berkeley. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    West Palm Beach 82°F (28°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Berkeley. Furthermore, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Berkeley in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Berkeley. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C) 
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Berkeley. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Berkeley averages at about 50°F (10°C).

West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Berkeley. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C) 
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to West Palm Beach because of the beaches. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Berkeley. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C) 
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Berkeley and West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach Berkeley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)