A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Fort Lauderdale vs. Islamorada for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale 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.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a spirited, luxury, and high energy coastal city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale. Although Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada are both popular with visitors, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Islamorada is known for its museums and food. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Islamorada and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also home to The Local Beaches. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Islamorada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

Islamorada is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Islamorada 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, 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.

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 Islamorada Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Fort Lauderdale has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Islamorada. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

Fort Lauderdale offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Islamorada makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada.

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.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beache.

The beaches in Fort Lauderdale are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Islamorada attract visitors from all over. 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 Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Islamorada and Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for shopping. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada Better for Families?

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Fort Lauderdale is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Islamorada is very family-friendly. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Fort Lauderdale is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada both world-class destinations for a couple.

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.

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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

Fort Lauderdale is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

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

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 Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is a great coastal city for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Islamorada is not a walkable coastal city. 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 Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Islamorada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Islamorada or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

Both Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada 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 Islamorada. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 4-7 days is enough time in Islamorada.

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

Couples should spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Islamorada. 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 Islamorada 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 Islamorada.

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

With shopping and nightlife around the spirited coastal city of Fort Lauderdale, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

The tropical destination of Islamorada offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 Islamorada?

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

The village of Islamorada offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 Islamorada?

Fort Lauderdale, a popular coastal city, 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 coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This village 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 Islamorada?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The relaxing village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. 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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada, we can see that Fort Lauderdale is more expensive. And not only is Islamorada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Islamorada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Islamorada 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 Fort Lauderdale would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fort Lauderdale than you might in Islamorada.

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 Islamorada Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale 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 Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada?

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 Islamorada in the Summer?

Both Islamorada and Fort Lauderdale during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Fort Lauderdale in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Islamorada in the summer. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 83°F (28°C) in July, and Islamorada fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

In Islamorada, 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 Islamorada. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Islamorada receives 328 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 Islamorada. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Islamorada. Most visitors come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Islamorada. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Islamorada averages at about 80°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Islamorada during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Islamorada receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Islamorada 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 Islamorada. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Islamorada. The winter months attract visitors to Fort Lauderdale because of 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.

In January, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Islamorada. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 67°F (20°C), and Islamorada fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fort Lauderdale this time of the year. In the winter, Fort Lauderdale often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Islamorada. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Islamorada receives 252 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets more rain in January than Islamorada. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Islamorada in the Spring?

Both Islamorada and Fort Lauderdale are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Fort Lauderdale this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Islamorada in the spring. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 75°F (24°C) in April, and Islamorada fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives less sunshine than Islamorada during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Islamorada receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Islamorada. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Islamorada receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Typical Weather for Islamorada and Fort Lauderdale