Should visitors rent a car or rely on taxis and tours?

Most travelers recommend renting a car for at least part of the trip to maximize flexibility and explore multiple beaches independently. The practical middle ground that comes up repeatedly: rent a vehicle for 2-3 days rather than the full week, since Palm Beach walkability and hotel taxi services cover daily needs, but self-drive unlocks destinations like Baby Beach, Eagle Beach, Boca Catalina, Malmok, Arashi, and the lighthouse area. Pricing runs approximately $27/day minimum or $250 for five days, with free parking at most beach locations.

For visitors staying put in Palm Beach resorts, taxis and tours may prove more economical than week-long rentals — one detailed report puts the weekly taxi cost below rental expenses. Driving conditions differ markedly from US norms, with limited signage and traffic signals worth noting for first-timers. A standard sedan handles paved roads and town areas adequately, but remote off-road sites require either a jeep or a guided UTV/ATV tour rather than attempting rough terrain in an underpowered rental.

The community consensus leans toward hybrid strategies: walking and taxis for resort-area dining and errands, a multi-day car rental for beach-hopping and independent sightseeing, and one organized tour for rugged backcountry exploration that's unreachable by standard vehicle. This combination balances cost control with the freedom to discover the island at your own pace.