A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Everglades National Park vs. Key Largo for Families, Backpackers, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Everglades National Park and Key Largo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a natural, wild, and pristine national park. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Everglades National Park and Key Largo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key Largo. Although Everglades National Park and Key Largo are popular destinations, Key Largo has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key Largo is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere, while Everglades National Park attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Everglades National Park is famous for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. It is also well known for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

How is Everglades National Park different from Key Largo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Everglades National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Everglades National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Everglades National Park or Key Largo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Dining out at restaurants in both Everglades National Park and Key Largo can be an enjoyable experience.

Everglades National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Nightlife?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Key Largo is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Resorts?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Key Largo is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key Largo. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Key Largo is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Beaches?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Key Largo is very good for the beach. However, Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Key Largo to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Hiking?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Everglades National Park is great for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Everglades National Park is mediocre for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Everglades National Park can be found for those interested. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Families?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Key Largo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

Key Largo is one of the most popular family destinations. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Couples?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Both Everglades National Park and Key Largo are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Everglades National Park is a good national park for couples to visit. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.


Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Everglades National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Everglades National Park. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Neither Everglades National Park or Key Largo offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Everglades National Park or Key Largo a more walkable city?

Everglades National Park
Key Largo

Everglades National Park is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Everglades National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.

Key Largo is not a walkable national park. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.


For even more information, also check out Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Key Largo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key Largo or Everglades National Park?

How long in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Both Everglades National Park and Key Largo have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in Everglades National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Everglades National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key Largo.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Everglades National Park than Key Largo 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 Everglades National Park.


  • How many days in Everglades National Park or Key Largo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Everglades National Park 2-3 
    Key Largo 5-7

One day in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

You'll find around the national park of Everglades National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the peaceful island of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

You'll find around the unique destination of Everglades National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful destination of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the unique national park of Everglades National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the family-friendly island of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Everglades National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Key Largo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Key Largo or Everglades National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Everglades National Park is $146, while the average daily cost in Key Largo is $212. 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 Everglades National Park and Key Largo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Everglades National Park $80
    Key Largo $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Everglades National Park $160
    Key Largo $234
Compare Hotels in Everglades National Park and Key Largo

Looking for a hotel in Everglades National Park or Key Largo? 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 Everglades National Park


Hotels in Key Largo


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Everglades National Park $56
    Key Largo $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

Also for Key Largo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

Prices for flights to both Key Largo and Everglades National Park 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
    Everglades National Park $31
    Key Largo $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Everglades National Park $28
    Key Largo $27

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • 2 Hour Chokoloskee Island Kayak Tour: $80
  • 4 Hour Everglades Kayak Tour: $120
  • 6 Hour Everglades Mangroves Kayak Tour: $200
  • Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours): $120
  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $48
  • Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour: $120

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Key Largo.

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • 2 Location Snorkel Tour - Gear Included, 65 minutes per location: $79
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Florida Keys Mangrove Eco Tour of Manatee Bay: $75
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $185
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70
  • Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour - All Snorkel Equipment Included!: $78

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Everglades National Park $7.86
    Key Largo $24


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

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



When is the best time to visit Everglades National Park or Key Largo?

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 Everglades National Park or Key Largo in the Summer?

Both Key Largo and Everglades National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Everglades National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Key Largo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Key Largo in the summer. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Key Largo fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo during summer. Everglades National Park gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Key Largo receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. It's quite rainy in Everglades National Park. In July, Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Key Largo. Everglades National Park gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Everglades National Park 82°F (28°C) 
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key Largo in the Autumn?

Both Key Largo and Everglades National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Everglades National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Key Largo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Everglades National Park in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Key Largo averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Everglades National Park. In the autumn, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo. Everglades National Park gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key Largo receives 275 hours of full sun.

Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Everglades National Park. Everglades National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Key Largo. Everglades National Park gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Everglades National Park is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Everglades National Park 78°F (26°C) 
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key Largo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Everglades National Park and Key Largo. Most visitors come to Everglades National Park for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the cuisine.

In January, Everglades National Park is generally around the same temperature as Key Largo. Daily temperatures in Everglades National Park average around 67°F (19°C), and Key Largo fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In Everglades National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo during winter. Everglades National Park gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Key Largo receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Everglades National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Key Largo. Everglades National Park gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Everglades National Park 67°F (19°C) 
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C)

Should I visit Everglades National Park or Key Largo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Everglades National Park as well as Key Largo. The spring months attract visitors to Everglades National Park because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year.

Everglades National Park is around the same temperature as Key Largo in the spring. The daily temperature in Everglades National Park averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Key Largo fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Everglades National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Everglades National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key Largo. Everglades National Park gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key Largo receives 300 hours of full sun.

Everglades National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Key Largo. Everglades National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Key Largo receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Everglades National Park.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Everglades National Park 74°F (24°C) 
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Key Largo and Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park Key Largo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)