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

Should you visit Islamorada or Bangor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Bangor, 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 tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bangor

Bangor is a laid back, welcoming, and friendly town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Islamorada and Bangor: 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
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Bangor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Bangor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Bangor is more popular for its small town charm. Islamorada is more touristy than Bangor and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Bangor is well known for its history as a lumber town.

How is Islamorada different from Bangor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Bangor

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Islamorada or Bangor.

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.

Bangor offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a couple of museums around town that focus on culture and daily life in Maine.


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

Islamorada
Bangor

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

Dining out in Islamorada is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bangor. For a small town, there are a range of dining options in the area such as seafood, international cuisine, and quick eats.

Is Islamorada or Bangor Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Bangor

Islamorada is a village with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bangor is not a good town for nightlife.

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 Bangor. There are breweries and bars with laid back vibes and a casual atmosphere.

Is Islamorada or Bangor Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Bangor

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

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Bangor is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Bangor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Bangor

Islamorada is a village with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Bangor Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Bangor

Islamorada is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bangor 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.

Bangor is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Bangor?

Islamorada
Bangor

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Bangor both offer plenty of notable 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.

Bangor offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the widest selection of locally own shops and boutiques.


Is Islamorada or Bangor Better for Families?

Islamorada
Bangor

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangor is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Bangor is a family-friendly village. You'll find a number of parks and walking trails nearby. There's also fruit picking and playgrounds to explore.

Is Islamorada or Bangor Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Bangor

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for couples. However, Bangor is not a good town for romance.

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.

Bangor is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are local restaurants and several museums in town that couples will enjoy.

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

Islamorada
Bangor

Bangor 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 Bangor. There's a bus system, but visitors usually use their own car to get around.

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 Islamorada or Bangor a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Bangor

Bangor is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Bangor is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and easy to explore on foot.

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 Bangor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bangor or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Bangor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Islamorada or Bangor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Islamorada than Bangor because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bangor.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Bangor. 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 Bangor. 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 Islamorada than Bangor 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.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Bangor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Bangor 1-2

One day in Islamorada or Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the laid back town of Bangor, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangor, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Bangor?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Bangor, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Islamorada or Bangor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bangor, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Bangor?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the adventurous destination of Islamorada. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Bangor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, 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, Bangor 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 Bangor is $197. 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 Bangor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Bangor $114
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Bangor $228
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Bangor

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Bangor? 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 Bangor


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 Bangor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Bangor $36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bangor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bangor:

  • Private Transfer from Bangor Airport(BGR) to Rockland Cruise Port: $69
  • Private Transfer from Bangor city hotels to Rockland Cruise Port: $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Bangor?

Prices for flights to both Bangor 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
    Bangor $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Bangor $45

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 Bangor

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


  • Children's Museum (for 4)
    $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Bangor $23


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Bangor?

Bangor has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Bangor, 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 Bangor?

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 Bangor in the Summer?

Both Bangor 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 Bangor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Islamorada usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Bangor. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Bangor 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Bangor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Bangor. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bangor in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Islamorada is much warmer than Bangor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Bangor fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Bangor. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Bangor 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Bangor in the Winter?

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

Bangor can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Bangor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Bangor averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Bangor. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Bangor 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Bangor in the Spring?

Both Bangor 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 Bangor because of the small town charm.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Bangor. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Bangor fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Bangor. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Bangor receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Bangor 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Bangor and Islamorada

Islamorada Bangor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)