A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America West Palm Beach vs. San Diego for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit West Palm Beach or San Diego?

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

Should I visit West Palm Beach or San Diego? 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 diverse, vibrant, and fun-filled beach area. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife.

San Diego

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

West Palm Beach and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in West Palm Beach or San Diego?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than West Palm Beach. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its museums, food, music, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while West Palm Beach attracts visitors for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. San Diego is more touristy than West Palm Beach and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. West Palm Beach is famous for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is West Palm Beach different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Diego is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around San Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 San Diego Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find superb options in both West Palm Beach and San Diego.

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.

San Diego offers plenty to do in the evening. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great coastal city for live music. However, West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

San Diego has a thriving music scene. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

West Palm Beach is not a live music destination.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego Better for Resorts?

West Palm Beach is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

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

West Palm Beach is great for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both West Palm Beach and San Diego 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, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a great coastal city for hiking. However, West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

West Palm Beach is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in West Palm Beach or San Diego?

San Diego is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

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

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

West Palm Beach is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

West Palm Beach is not popular with students.

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

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

While West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is West Palm Beach or San Diego a more walkable city?

West Palm Beach and San Diego are nice 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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or West Palm Beach?

How long in West Palm Beach or San Diego?

In either West Palm Beach or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in West Palm Beach than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for West Palm Beach, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego 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 San Diego.

One day in West Palm Beach or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beach area of West Palm Beach. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The dynamic destination of San Diego offers shopping and museums. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in West Palm Beach or San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled destination of West Palm Beach. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This beach area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The coastal city of San Diego offers museums and nightlife. 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 San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant beach area of West Palm Beach. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach area makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This coastal city offers something for everyone. 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 San Diego?

West Palm Beach is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in West Palm Beach, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting San Diego. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, West Palm Beach or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of West Palm Beach. When comparing the sizes of West Palm Beach and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and West Palm Beach are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. 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 San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in West Palm Beach in July average around 82°F (28°C), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during summer. West Palm Beach gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in West Palm Beach. In July, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than San Diego. West Palm Beach gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or San Diego in the Autumn?

Both San Diego and West Palm Beach during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In October, West Palm Beach is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in West Palm Beach average around 78°F (25°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. In the autumn, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than San Diego. West Palm Beach gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. West Palm Beach gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in West Palm Beach is the hurricane season.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or San Diego in the Winter?

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

West Palm Beach is a little warmer than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in West Palm Beach averages around 65°F (19°C) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In West Palm Beach, it's very sunny this time of the year. West Palm Beach usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during winter. West Palm Beach gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, West Palm Beach usually receives more rain than San Diego. West Palm Beach gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit West Palm Beach or San Diego in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to West Palm Beach as well as San Diego. Many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches. Additionally, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, West Palm Beach is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in West Palm Beach in April average around 74°F (23°C), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In the spring, West Palm Beach often gets more sunshine than San Diego. West Palm Beach gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. West Palm Beach gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.

Typical Weather for San Diego and West Palm Beach