A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Key West for Nightlife, Resorts, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Key West? 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.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a well-known, vibrant, and built-up city. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Acapulco de Juarez travel costs.

Key West

Key West is a lively, quaint, and laid-back town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Key West travel costs.

Acapulco de Juarez and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Acapulco de Juarez and Key West are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Acapulco de Juarez is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Acapulco de Juarez and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street. Acapulco de Juarez is popular for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Key West and Acapulco de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Acapulco de Juarez is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Acapulco de Juarez offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Key West is an experience not to be missed. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Acapulco de Juarez is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for its resorts. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Acapulco de Juarez is a great choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez is notable for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Acapulco de Juarez and Key West are high quality choices.

Acapulco de Juarez is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Acapulco de Juarez does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Acapulco de Juarez does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Acapulco de Juarez offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West More Beautiful?

Key West is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Acapulco de Juarez or Key West.

Acapulco de Juarez is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Key West is a very family-friendly destination. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Acapulco de Juarez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is a great destination for students. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Acapulco de Juarez has a few public transit options. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Key West a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez and Key West both are good when exploring on foot.

Acapulco de Juarez is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

Key West is somewhat walkable. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Key West have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Acapulco de Juarez. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Acapulco de Juarez, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

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

Couples should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Key West. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Acapulco de Juarez that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Key West 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 Acapulco de Juarez.

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

The city of Acapulco de Juarez offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the bustling destination of Key West. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Key West is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the active town of Key West. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Acapulco de Juarez, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer.

A week in Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. Visiting the old town is also a must. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acapulco de Juarez and Key West, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acapulco de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acapulco de Juarez 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Acapulco de Juarez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive? and Is Key West Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

Acapulco de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and Key West, 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 Acapulco de Juarez or Key West?

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Key West in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and Key West. The summer months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

In July, Acapulco de Juarez is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 29°C (83°F), and Key West fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less sunshine than Key West during summer. Acapulco de Juarez gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

Acapulco de Juarez gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Key West. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Key West in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Key West. The shopping scene are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Acapulco de Juarez is around the same temperature as Key West in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In the autumn, Acapulco de Juarez often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key West. Acapulco de Juarez gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Key West. Acapulco de Juarez receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in October than Key West. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Key West receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Key West in the Winter?

Both Key West and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Key West in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Key West. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Key West averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more sunshine than Key West during winter. Acapulco de Juarez gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 252 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Key West. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Key West receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Key West in the Spring?

Both Key West and Acapulco de Juarez during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Acapulco de Juarez is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 27°C (81°F), and Key West fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. In the spring, Acapulco de Juarez often gets less sunshine than Key West. Acapulco de Juarez gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 326 hours of full sun.

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in April than Key West. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Key West and Acapulco de Juarez