Car rental?

I am planning to visit WPB in July for a 3 night girls trip. We are staying in the Flamingo Park area and have a pool, but would like to visit the beach as well. Is it suggested to rent a car? Or is it easier to use Uber/Lyft to get to the beach, downtown, etc?

For a 3-night girls trip in West Palm Beach, staying in the Flamingo Park area, whether to rent a car depends on your plans and preferences.

Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the most flexibility, especially if you want to explore multiple beaches, visit downtown WPB, or take day trips along the coast. Traffic is generally manageable, and parking is available at most public beaches and downtown areas, though it may be paid.

  • Pros: Complete freedom to go wherever and whenever, easier if you plan to visit multiple beaches or attractions outside walking distance.
  • Cons: Parking fees, possible traffic during peak hours, and the cost of renting for just 3 days might be slightly higher than using rideshares for short distances.

Uber/Lyft: Using rideshares can be convenient if you plan to stay mostly in the Flamingo Park area and only occasionally visit the beach or downtown. For a 3-day trip, this could save you from the hassle of renting, parking, and navigating.

  • Pros: No parking hassles, cheaper if your trips are limited, easy to hail from anywhere.
  • Cons: Less flexible for multiple stops, costs add up if traveling longer distances or visiting beaches further away like Palm Beach or Lake Worth.

Recommendation: If your itinerary is mainly local beaches and dining near Flamingo Park, Uber/Lyft is sufficient. If you want to explore a wider area, visit multiple beaches, or take day trips to nearby towns, renting a car is recommended.

Additional tip: Check if your accommodation offers complimentary beach shuttle services or local transport, as some Flamingo Park-area rentals or hotels provide this for guests.


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