A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Charleston for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Charleston?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Charleston? 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

West Palm Beach and Charleston: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Charleston than West Palm Beach. Charleston is bigger than West Palm Beach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Charleston is better known for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is West Palm Beach different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charleston 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 Charleston?

Charleston is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

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 Charleston Better for Nightlife?

West Palm Beach is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

West Palm Beach has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

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

West Palm Beach is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston 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.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Beaches?

West Palm Beach is an amazing beach area to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.

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.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is very popular for its historic old town. However, West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Charleston has a world-famous historical area. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

West Palm Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Charleston?

Charleston 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 Charleston. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas activities.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a popular place for visiting Christmas markets. However, West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Many visitors go to the Christmas markets in Charleston. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

West Palm Beach does not offer Christmas markets.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Families?

West Palm Beach is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly beach area. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is very popular for romance. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its romantic activities.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

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 West Palm Beach or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston 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 Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

West Palm Beach is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is West Palm Beach or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its walkability. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have 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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in West Palm Beach or Charleston?

Both West Palm Beach and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than West Palm Beach. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

One day in West Palm Beach or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The charming destination of Charleston offers live music and food. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Charleston?

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The quaint coastal town of Charleston offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 West Palm Beach or Charleston?

West Palm Beach, a popular beach area, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in West Palm Beach or Charleston?

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The historic coastal town of Charleston offers museums and nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 West Palm Beach and Charleston, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Charleston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Charleston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Charleston 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 Charleston.

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 Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

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 Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston 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 Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the summer, West Palm Beach often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Charleston. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Charleston. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

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

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

In the winter, West Palm Beach is much warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the winter, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than Charleston. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Charleston 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 beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during spring. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Charleston. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Typical Weather for Charleston and West Palm Beach