A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Cocoa Beach vs. Key West for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a relaxing, adventurous, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Key West

Key West is a bustling, active, and lively town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cocoa Beach and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cocoa Beach or Key West?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Cocoa Beach 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 nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cocoa Beach is known for its museums, food, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Cocoa Beach and is popular 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. Cocoa Beach is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is Cocoa Beach different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Key West 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 Key West?

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

Cocoa Beach offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cocoa Beach is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cocoa Beach. 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.

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be 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 Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a very popular place for its evening party scene. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cocoa Beach has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Resorts?

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. 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.

Cocoa Beach has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Is Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West 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 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.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Beaches?

Cocoa Beach and Key West both offer superb 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.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. 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 Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cocoa Beach or Key West?

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

Cocoa Beach offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

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 Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. 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 Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach and Key West both superb destinations for a couple.

Cocoa Beach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Couples visit Key West frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Cocoa Beach or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach is not popular with students.

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

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

Cocoa Beach has a few public transit options. 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 quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Cocoa Beach or Key West a more walkable city?

Cocoa Beach and Key West are good when it comes to walkability.

Cocoa Beach is a somewhat walkable beach town. 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.

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 Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Cocoa Beach?

How long in Cocoa Beach or Key West?

Both Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Cocoa Beach, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

Families should spend more time in Cocoa Beach than Key West. 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.

One day in Cocoa Beach or Key West?

The beach town of Cocoa Beach offers food and shopping. 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 nightlife and food when visiting the eclectic town of Key West. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Key West?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the bustling destination of Key West. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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 Key West?

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the bustling town of Key West. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Key West?

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. 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 beach town offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.

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

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 Key West Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cocoa Beach or Key West?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach or Key West?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Key West in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cocoa Beach as well as Key West. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cocoa Beach 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 July, Cocoa Beach is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 81°F (27°C), and Key West fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the summer. Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in July than Key West. Cocoa Beach gets 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Key West in the Autumn?

Both Key West and Cocoa Beach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach is around the same temperature as Key West in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cocoa Beach averages around 77°F (25°C) in October, and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

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

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Key West in the Winter?

Both Key West and Cocoa Beach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Cocoa Beach is cooler than Key West. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cocoa Beach in January average around 63°F (17°C), and Key West averages at about 70°F (21°C).

Cocoa Beach usually gets more rain in January than Key West. Cocoa Beach gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cocoa Beach or Key West in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cocoa Beach and Key West. Most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Cocoa Beach is generally cooler than Key West. Daily temperatures in Cocoa Beach average around 73°F (23°C), and Key West fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In April, Cocoa Beach usually receives more rain than Key West. Cocoa Beach gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Key West and Cocoa Beach