A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Cocoa Beach vs. Islamorada for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

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 Cocoa Beach and Islamorada. 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.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a fun-filled, relaxing, and adventurous beach town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cocoa Beach and Islamorada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Cocoa Beach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty, while Cocoa Beach is more popular for its museums. Cocoa Beach is well known for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Islamorada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Cocoa Beach is a great beach town for its historical sights. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cocoa Beach can be an interesting and educational experience. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

Islamorada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Is the Food Better in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cocoa Beach and Islamorada offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Islamorada makes for a great culinary experience. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cocoa Beach and Islamorada.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Cocoa Beach. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Islamorada has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Resorts?

There are notable resorts to choose from in both Cocoa Beach and Islamorada.

Cocoa Beach has a few great resort options. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Islamorada has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach and Islamorada both offer great beaches.

Many people visit Cocoa Beach for it's beautiful beaches. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Islamorada is considered a top beach destination. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Cocoa Beach and Islamorada.

Cocoa Beach has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Islamorada is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Families?

Both Cocoa Beach and Islamorada are world-class family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is very family-friendly. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Couples?

Islamorada is very popular for couples. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Islamorada is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Is Cocoa Beach or Islamorada a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

Islamorada is not a walkable beach town. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Islamorada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Islamorada or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Both Cocoa Beach and Islamorada have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Cocoa Beach. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 4-7 days is enough time in Islamorada.

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

Couples should spend more time in Islamorada than Cocoa Beach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Islamorada that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Islamorada 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 Cocoa Beach.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

With museums and nightlife around the fun-filled beach town of Cocoa Beach, there's plenty to do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing village of Islamorada. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Cocoa Beach, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this beach town.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the tropical destination of Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This village offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Cocoa Beach, a popular beach town, 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 town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing village of Islamorada. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Islamorada. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this village.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cocoa Beach and Islamorada, we can see that Cocoa Beach is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

Cocoa Beach has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach and Islamorada, 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 Cocoa Beach or Islamorada?

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 Cocoa Beach or Islamorada in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Islamorada. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Islamorada. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cocoa Beach in July average around 81°F (27°C), and Islamorada averages at about 84°F (29°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Islamorada. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Islamorada in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Islamorada. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cocoa Beach is generally around the same temperature as Islamorada. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 77°F (25°C), and Islamorada fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

It's quite rainy in Islamorada. Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Cocoa Beach usually gets less rain in October than Islamorada. Cocoa Beach gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Islamorada in the Winter?

Both Islamorada and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year.

Cocoa Beach is cooler than Islamorada in the winter. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 63°F (17°C) in January, and Islamorada fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In January, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Islamorada. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Islamorada in the Spring?

Both Islamorada and Cocoa Beach during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cocoa Beach is cooler than Islamorada. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cocoa Beach in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Islamorada averages at about 77°F (25°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in April than Islamorada. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Typical Weather for Islamorada and Cocoa Beach