A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boca Raton vs. Cape Cod for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Boca Raton and Cape Cod. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Boca Raton

Boca Raton is a relaxed, luxurious, and posh coastal city. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Boca Raton and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boca Raton. Although Boca Raton and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Boca Raton has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boca Raton is very popular for its museums & sights, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is more touristy than Boca Raton and is known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Boca Raton is famous for its golf courses, outdoor recreational activities, and safe atmosphere. It is also well known for Red Reef Park.

How is Boca Raton different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cape Cod and Boca Raton. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Boca Raton. While most visitors focus on the beaches and outdoor activities in the area, there are also a surprising number of museums that you can visit. On a rainy day head to the Boca Raton Museum of Art or the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum. Sports enthusiasts will like the Sports Immortals Museum and kids will want to check out the Children's Science Explorium.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Boca Raton or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Foodies will find both Boca Raton and Cape Cod both to be excellent destinations.

Boca Raton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a mix of local and international flavors with both casual and upscale dining available. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekend nights. For the health-conscious, there's also a nice selection of healthy eateries to choose from.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Boca Raton for the nightlife scene. You'll find plenty of upscale wine bars, cocktail bars, and live music venues that will keep you entertained late into the evening.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Boca Raton to choose from. You'll find many luxury beachside resorts that offer all of the amenities, from access to golf course to family-friendly kids clubs.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.


Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Boca Raton. Head to the "Aqua Zoo", which is just to the south of Boca Inlet to see stingrays, groupers, and moray eels. Red Reef Park offers excellent snorkeling as well.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its beaches.

Boca Raton offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There's a two mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that are all monitored by lifeguards. The beaches offer all of the facilities that you might need such as picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Many beaches are part of park land and some offer nice snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Spanish River Park, Bark Park Dog Beach, Red Reef Beach, and South Beach Park.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Hiking trails can be found around both Boca Raton and Cape Cod, and they are nice.

Boca Raton offers some nice hiking trails. There's a surprising number of nature parks in the area that have hiking trails, nature walks, and beach paths that are fun to explore.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.


Is the Shopping Better in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

If you're looking to go shopping, Boca Raton and Cape Cod both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area, and you'll find no shortage of luxury shopping around town. Popular areas for shopping include Downtown Boca, Mizner Park, and the Town Center at Boca Raton.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Both Boca Raton and Cape Cod are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boca Raton. It's an upscale area with a family-friendly atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Many of the hotels have kids clubs that will keep the young ones entertained. The area also has nature centers, children's museums, and waterparks that will ensure everyone stays entertained.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton and Cape Cod both excellent destinations for a couple.

Boca Raton is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. There's an upscale vibe with plenty of nature trails and nice beaches. Many of the hotels offer a touch of luxury that honeymooning couples will appreciate. You can also head to the downtown area for music, events, and museums.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.


Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Boca Raton offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Downtowner is a fleet of free, oversized golf cars that shuttle visitors around town, passing by many top sites such as Mizner Park, Red Reef Park, and the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. There's also a public bus system, Palm Tran, that offers service around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Boca Raton or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Boca Raton
Cape Cod

Boca Raton and Cape Cod are nice when it comes to walkability.

Boca Raton is a somewhat walkable coastal city. There are some communities within the city that are more walkable than others, particularly East Boca Raton, Royal Palm Place, and Mizner Park. There are also many pedestrian and bike paths around town. Even so, you really must have a car to explore the area in depth.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

For even more information, also check out Is Boca Raton Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Boca Raton?

How long in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Both Boca Raton and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Boca Raton. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Boca Raton, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

Families should spend more time in Boca Raton than Cape Cod. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boca Raton, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boca Raton than Cape Cod. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boca Raton that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boca Raton than Cape Cod 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 Boca Raton.


  • How many days in Boca Raton or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boca Raton 3-5 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

The coastal city of Boca Raton offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Boca Raton 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.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

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

Cape Cod, a popular beach destination, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this beach destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Boca Raton is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches 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 coastal city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Boca Raton?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Boca Raton is $283, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $183. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Boca Raton and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boca Raton $171
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boca Raton $342
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Boca Raton and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Boca Raton or Cape Cod? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Boca Raton


Hotels in Cape Cod


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Boca Raton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boca Raton $76
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Boca Raton

Also for Boca Raton, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from West Palm Beach to (FLL) Airport: $115
  • Private Delray Beach Transfer and Fort Lauderdale Airport: $84
  • Boynton Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Boca Raton to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL)- Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Delray Beach to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $51
  • Boca Raton to Miami Airport (MIA) - Departure Private Transfer: $45
  • Boynton Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $42
  • Delray Beach to Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Boca Raton change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Boca Raton $67
    Cape Cod $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Boca Raton

For Boca Raton, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Delray Beach Dinner & Drinks Tour: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boca Raton $28
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Boca Raton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Boca Raton.

  • Boca Raton Bash Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $160
  • Boca Raton on High Speed Train with Millionaire Home Boat Tour: $150
  • Boca Raton-Delray Beach 1-Hour Private Jet Ski Guided Tour: $165
  • 23ft Boat Tour with Snorkeling/Tubing/Island: $400
  • Boomers Park Admission Tickets: $50
  • Private Jet Ski Tour with Optional Snorkeling: $200
  • Delray Beach Food & Drinks Tour: $104

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $40
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Private Open- Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $116
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Provincetown Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Stand Up Paddle Board Ice Cream Boat Adventure: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boca Raton $40
    Cape Cod $19


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Boca Raton Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Boca Raton or Cape Cod?

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 Boca Raton or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Boca Raton are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Boca Raton because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

Boca Raton is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during summer. Boca Raton gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Boca Raton. In July, Boca Raton usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Boca Raton gets 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Boca Raton 82°F (28°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Boca Raton during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Boca Raton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Boca Raton is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boca Raton in October average around 78°F (25°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Boca Raton. In the autumn, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Boca Raton gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Boca Raton. Boca Raton usually gets more rain in October than Cape Cod. Boca Raton gets 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Boca Raton is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Boca Raton 78°F (25°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Boca Raton and Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Boca Raton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Boca Raton is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Boca Raton average around 65°F (19°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In Boca Raton, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boca Raton usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during winter. Boca Raton gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Boca Raton usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Boca Raton gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Boca Raton 65°F (19°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Boca Raton or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Boca Raton as well as Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Boca Raton in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Boca Raton is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Boca Raton averages around 74°F (23°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boca Raton this time of the year. In the spring, Boca Raton often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Boca Raton gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Boca Raton usually gets less rain in April than Cape Cod. Boca Raton gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Boca Raton.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Boca Raton 74°F (23°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Boca Raton

Boca Raton Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)