A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Fort Lauderdale vs. Cape Cod for Resorts, Beaches, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a high energy, scenic, and bustling coastal city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Fort Lauderdale and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Fort Lauderdale is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Cape Cod is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Cape Cod and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. Also, Fort Lauderdale is famous for The Local Beaches. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Fort Lauderdale has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Fort Lauderdale for the nightlife scene. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Fort Lauderdale for its luxury resorts. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

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

Fort Lauderdale offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

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 Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Fort Lauderdale is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is a great destination for shopping. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Fort Lauderdale. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Cape Cod are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Fort Lauderdale is a very family-friendly place to visit. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cape Cod is very family-friendly. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for romance.

Fort Lauderdale is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Fort Lauderdale and Cape Cod.

Public transit is generally limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Public transit is mostly 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 Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable destination. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Fort Lauderdale has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Cape Cod. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cape Cod than Fort Lauderdale 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 Cape Cod.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

The beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

Fort Lauderdale 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.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

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

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This beach destination offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Fort Lauderdale and Cape Cod, we can see that Cape Cod 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 Fort Lauderdale Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod?

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 Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

In July, Fort Lauderdale is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 83°F (28°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Cape Cod. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Cape Cod in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, 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 the winter, Fort Lauderdale is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Fort Lauderdale is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 75°F (24°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Fort Lauderdale