A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Anchorage for Families, Couples, Food, and Attractions

Should you visit Islamorada or Anchorage?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Anchorage, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

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.

Anchorage

Anchorage is a outdoorsy, scenic, and breathtaking city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

Islamorada and Anchorage: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Anchorage?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Anchorage are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Anchorage is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. Anchorage is popular for its breathtaking natural beauty, impressive wildlife, stunning hiking trails, and unique local culture.

How is Islamorada different from Anchorage?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Anchorage?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Islamorada or Anchorage.

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.

Anchorage offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most people visit for the outdoor experiences, there are a few museums where you can learn about the local culture and wildlife. Popular museums include the the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, the Alaska Aviation Museum, and the Alaska Museum of Science and Nature.


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

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Anchorage has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food is expensive in town, but there are some unique local specialties that you must try. Many restaurants offer fresh seafood and local meats. Favorites include yak meat, king crab, and fresh oysters.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is a village with good options for nightlife. However, Anchorage is not a good city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Anchorage. The town's nightlife mostly consists of local bars where you can hang out. Check out Koot's, which is a longstanding favorite.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is a village with good options for its resorts. However, Anchorage is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Anchorage is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is a village with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Anchorage is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Islamorada. 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.

Anchorage is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Anchorage is not a beach destination.

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.

Anchorage is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Anchorage is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Anchorage draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The town is surrounded by wilderness and it's not hard to escape into nature. You can choose between short walks, long day trips, and multi-day treks, with everything in between available as well. There are more than 300 miles of hiking trails near town and several favorites include Byron Glacier Trail, Thunderbird Falls Trail, and Flattop Mountain.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Anchorage?

Islamorada
Anchorage

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Anchorage both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Anchorage offers some nice shopping areas. There are plenty of local gift shops and boutiques where you can pick up local Alaskan crafts and products. There's no sales tax, but prices can still be a bit steep. But if you're looking for something uniquely local to remember your trip, you don't have to look hard.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Families?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Islamorada is an extremely popular village to visit for families. 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.

Anchorage is a family-friendly village. Kids who appreciate nature will appreciate this unique setting. Everyone will enjoy a glacier cruise, but you can hang out with the locals in Westchester Lagoon, see the animals at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and learn about the area at the Anchorage Museum.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Anchorage is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Islamorada is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Anchorage makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city makes a good base for couples who want to explore the surrounding beauty. The landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip, and the adventure activities will make for an unforgettable experience. There are plenty of outdoor activities and adventure sports that couples can enjoy together and the beauty of the region is breathtaking.


Is Islamorada or Anchorage Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Anchorage is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Anchorage. There are a few good budget places to stay, and backpackers will also have plenty of outdoor wilderness to explore near town. It's important to remember that Alaska is known for its challenging wilderness so, unless you're experienced, you should take a guide.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Islamorada
Anchorage

Neither Islamorada or Anchorage offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Anchorage. There is the People Mover bus system that transports riders around town, but to truly experience the region, you must have a car.

Is Islamorada or Anchorage a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Anchorage

Anchorage is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Anchorage is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown area is compact so you can wander to the nearby shops and restaurants on foot, but most people visit with the goal of exploring outside of town. For that you need a car.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. 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 Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Anchorage Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Anchorage or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Anchorage?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Anchorage. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Anchorage. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Anchorage.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Anchorage. 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 Islamorada than Anchorage. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Islamorada that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Anchorage than Islamorada 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 Anchorage.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Anchorage? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Anchorage 1-3

One day in Islamorada or Anchorage?

You'll find nightlife and food around the village of Islamorada. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 museums and food around the breathtaking city of Anchorage, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Anchorage, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Anchorage?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical destination of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food and shopping around the destination of Anchorage, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Islamorada or Anchorage?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the tropical village of Islamorada. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

Anchorage, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Islamorada or Anchorage?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Anchorage is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Anchorage or Islamorada?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $145, while the average daily cost in Anchorage is $191. 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 Islamorada and Anchorage in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Anchorage $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Anchorage $234
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Anchorage

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Anchorage? 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 Islamorada


Hotels in Anchorage


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Anchorage Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Anchorage $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Anchorage

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Anchorage:

  • SUV-Private Transfer, Whittier Cruise ship to Anchorage: $299
  • SUV-Private Transfer, Anchorage to Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal: $299
  • Anchorage to Seward- Pre-Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $219
  • Seward to Anchorage- Post Cruise Curated Wildlife Tour +Transfer: $197
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Anchorage Airport ANC: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Anchorage?

Prices for flights to both Anchorage and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $47
    Anchorage $50

Typical Food Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of dining costs in Anchorage are as follows:


  • Bread
    $4.25
  • Breakfast for Two
    $17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Anchorage

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Anchorage.

  • City of Anchorage SIGHTSEEING & FOOD Tour: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Anchorage $30

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • Night Tour Glass Bottom Boat in Islamorada: $80
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • Snorkeling Adventure in Islamorada : $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure from Cheeca Spa: $90
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150

Typical Entertainment Prices in Anchorage

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Anchorage are as follows:


  • 1 Day Bike Rental
    $33
  • 1/2 Day Rafting Trip
    $105

Tours and Activities in Anchorage

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Anchorage are as follows:

  • 26 Glacier Tour, Self-Drive from Anchorage, AK: $226
  • 3 Hour Ladies Only Kayak Tour in Knik River: $130
  • Advanced Snowshoeing Adventure: $238
  • Alaska 9 Day Ocean Wildlife to Interior Wilderness Adventure: $6,999
  • Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup: $115
  • Alaska Wildlife Tour: $110
  • Alaska's Most Scenic E-Bike Adventure: $224
  • Anchorage Brews Tour: $169
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Taste of Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $69
  • Anchorage City Tour w/ Wild Smoked Salmon & Reindeer Sausage: $73
  • Anchorage City Tour, w/Chocolate Factory Samplings & Much More!: $59
  • Anchorage Ice Fishing Adventure: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Anchorage $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Anchorage

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Anchorage:

  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Tour: $109
  • Half-Day Anchorage Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings: $179
  • Guided Tour on Matanuska Glacier w/Alaska Honey & Wine Tasting: $285


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Islamorada and Anchorage, we can see that Anchorage 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 Anchorage would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Anchorage 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 Islamorada Expensive? and Is Anchorage Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Anchorage?

Anchorage has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Anchorage, 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 Islamorada or Anchorage?

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 Islamorada or Anchorage in the Summer?

Both Anchorage and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Anchorage for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Islamorada is much warmer than Anchorage in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Anchorage fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In Anchorage, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 240 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets more rain in July than Anchorage. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 1.7 inches (44 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Anchorage 59°F (15°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Anchorage in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Anchorage. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Anchorage in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Anchorage can get quite cold in the autumn. In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Anchorage. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Anchorage averages at about 35°F (2°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 118 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Anchorage 35°F (2°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Anchorage in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Anchorage. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Anchorage for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Anchorage can be very cold during winter. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Anchorage. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Anchorage fluctuates around 15°F (-9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Anchorage. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Anchorage receives 80 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets more rain in January than Anchorage. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (19 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Anchorage 15°F (-9°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Anchorage in the Spring?

Both Anchorage and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Anchorage because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Anchorage can be very cold. Islamorada is much warmer than Anchorage in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Anchorage fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

It's quite sunny in Anchorage. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Anchorage during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Anchorage receives 233 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Anchorage. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Anchorage receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Anchorage 36°F (2°C)

Typical Weather for Anchorage and Islamorada

Islamorada Anchorage
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 15°F (-9°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 19°F (-7°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 26°F (-3°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 36°F (2°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 47°F (8°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 55°F (13°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 35°F (2°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 22°F (-6°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 17°F (-8°C) 1.1 inches (28 mm)