A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Los Angeles? 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. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a energetic, dynamic, and glamourous city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

West Palm Beach and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Los Angeles than West Palm Beach. Los Angeles is bigger than West Palm Beach, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Los Angeles is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while West Palm Beach is more popular for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Los Angeles is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is known for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. Also, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood. West Palm Beach is well known for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Los Angeles is very popular for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Los Angeles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is a great city for theatre. However, West Palm Beach is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

West Palm Beach is not a theatre destination.

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

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

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is very popular for nightlife. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for nightlife and partying.

Los Angeles is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

West Palm Beach offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is very popular for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Los Angeles is known as a music capital around the world. Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to West Palm Beach for its luxury resorts. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

Los Angeles is known as a popular and fun resort destination. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

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

West Palm Beach is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Los Angeles is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near West Palm Beach. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

Los Angeles has a few good snorkeling spots. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both West Palm Beach and Los Angeles are amazing choices.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in West Palm Beach. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

With world-famous beaches, Los Angeles is a very popular vacation destination. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is very popular for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

People visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Los Angeles is a very family-friendly destination. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly beach area. 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 West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

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

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

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 Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Los Angeles is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is very popular for its student-friendly activities. However, West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

West Palm Beach and Los Angeles both offer notable public transit to get you around.

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.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Is West Palm Beach or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach and Los Angeles are notable when it comes to 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.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable place. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

Both West Palm Beach and Los Angeles have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Los Angeles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Los Angeles than West Palm Beach. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 5-7 days is enough time in Los Angeles.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

One day in West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the vibrant destination of West Palm Beach. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This beach area offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This city 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of West Palm Beach. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this beach area.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Los Angeles, we can see that West Palm Beach is more expensive. And not only is Los Angeles much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Los Angeles would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles.

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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

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 West Palm Beach or Los Angeles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both West Palm Beach and Los Angeles. Most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 82°F (28°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 72°F (22°C).

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as Los Angeles. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Los Angeles in the autumn. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 78°F (25°C) in October, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

West Palm Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than Los Angeles. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in West Palm Beach.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Los Angeles in the Winter?

Both Los Angeles and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to West Palm Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the winter temperatures in West Palm Beach in January average around 65°F (19°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and West Palm Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 74°F (23°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than Los Angeles. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and West Palm Beach