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

Should you visit Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

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 Sarasota. 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. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping.

Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Sarasota. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Sarasota and is popular for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

How is Fort Lauderdale different from Sarasota?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Fort Lauderdale offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Sarasota has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Sarasota. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota Better for Resorts?

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

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.

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

Fort Lauderdale is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is the Shopping Better in Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Sarasota 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 Sarasota. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota Better for Families?

Sarasota 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, Sarasota is very family-friendly. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

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 Sarasota Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Sarasota is a good coastal city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota 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 Sarasota.

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 Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota a more walkable city?

Fort Lauderdale is great for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

For even more information, also check out Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting? and Is Sarasota Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sarasota or Fort Lauderdale?

How long in Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

In either Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than Sarasota because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Fort Lauderdale, and 2-5 days is enough time in Sarasota.

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

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

One day in Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

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.

The relaxing destination of Sarasota offers nightlife and food. 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 Sarasota?

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.

The city of Sarasota offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

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.

Sarasota is a great place to explore. This city 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 Sarasota?

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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sarasota. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Sarasota, we can see that Sarasota is more expensive. And not only is Fort Lauderdale much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Fort Lauderdale would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fort Lauderdale 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 Sarasota would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sarasota than you might in Fort Lauderdale.

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 Sarasota Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota?

Fort Lauderdale has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Sarasota. When comparing the sizes of Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota, 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 Sarasota?

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 Sarasota in the Summer?

Both Sarasota 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 and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year.

In the summer, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Sarasota. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in July average around 83°F (28°C), and Sarasota averages at about 82°F (28°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fort Lauderdale. In the summer, Fort Lauderdale often gets more sunshine than Sarasota. Fort Lauderdale gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarasota receives 265 hours of full sun.

Sarasota gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually gets less rain in July than Sarasota. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fort Lauderdale and Sarasota. 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 Sarasota for the shopping scene.

In October, Fort Lauderdale is generally around the same temperature as Sarasota. Daily temperatures in Fort Lauderdale average around 78°F (26°C), and Sarasota fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Sarasota this time of the year. In Fort Lauderdale, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fort Lauderdale usually receives more sunshine than Sarasota during autumn. Fort Lauderdale gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Sarasota receives 234 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Fort Lauderdale gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Sarasota. Fort Lauderdale gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fort Lauderdale as well as Sarasota. Many travelers come to Fort Lauderdale for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Sarasota in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Fort Lauderdale is a little warmer than Sarasota in the winter. The daily temperature in Fort Lauderdale averages around 67°F (20°C) in January, and Sarasota fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sarasota. 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 Sarasota. Fort Lauderdale gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarasota receives 200 hours of full sun.

Fort Lauderdale usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Sarasota. Fort Lauderdale gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Fort Lauderdale or Sarasota in the Spring?

Both Sarasota 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 Sarasota for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Fort Lauderdale is around the same temperature as Sarasota. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fort Lauderdale in April average around 75°F (24°C), and Sarasota averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Sarasota during spring. Fort Lauderdale gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Sarasota receives 299 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Fort Lauderdale usually receives more rain than Sarasota. Fort Lauderdale gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Sarasota receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Sarasota and Fort Lauderdale