A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Clearwater vs. Key West for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Clearwater or Key West?

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 Clearwater and Key West. 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Clearwater travel costs.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Clearwater and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Key West?

Both Key West and Clearwater have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Clearwater is very popular for its museums and attractions, beaches, and shopping, while Key West attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is more touristy than Clearwater 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. Clearwater is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports.

How is Clearwater different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Key West?

Clearwater is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Key West? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Key West both to be superb destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Key West has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Is Clearwater or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Key West is notable for nightlife. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is Clearwater or Key West Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Key West.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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 Clearwater or Key West Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find nice places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Clearwater and Key West.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Clearwater. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. 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 Clearwater or Key West Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is renowned for the beach. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

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 Clearwater or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is notable for its historic old town. However, Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Clearwater does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Key West?

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

Clearwater offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

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 Clearwater or Key West More Beautiful?

Key West is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Key West Better for Families?

Both Clearwater and Key West are superb family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Key West is very family-friendly. 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 Clearwater or Key West Better for Couples?

Clearwater and Key West both superb destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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 Clearwater or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is notable for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

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

Clearwater is a moderate coastal city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

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

Is Clearwater or Key West a more walkable city?

Clearwater and Key West both are nice when exploring on foot.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Key West?

Both Clearwater 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 Clearwater. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater 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 Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Key West?

The coastal city of Clearwater 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.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the lively town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Key West?

Clearwater 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Clearwater or Key West?

Clearwater 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 Clearwater, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Key West, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Key West?

Clearwater 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.

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. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Key West, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Clearwater much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Clearwater would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Clearwater 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 Clearwater.

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

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Key West?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Key West in the Summer?

Both Key West and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Clearwater is around the same temperature as Key West. Typically, the summer temperatures in Clearwater in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Key West averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Key West during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Clearwater. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Key West. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Key West in the Autumn?

Both Key West and Clearwater during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Clearwater is generally cooler than Key West. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 75°F (24°C), and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Key West. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 258 hours of full sun.

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Key West. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Clearwater or Key West in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Key West. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Clearwater is cooler than Key West in the winter. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Key West fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives less sunshine than Key West during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 252 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Key West. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Key West in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Key West. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Clearwater is cooler than Key West. Typically, the spring temperatures in Clearwater in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Key West averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the spring, Clearwater often gets less sunshine than Key West. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 326 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets more rain in April than Key West. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Key West and Clearwater