A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Beaver Creek, 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and food.

Islamorada and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Both Beaver Creek and Islamorada have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Islamorada is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Beaver Creek is known for its skiing, theatre productions, and hiking. Beaver Creek is more touristy than Islamorada and is known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

How is Islamorada different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is renowned for skiing. However, Islamorada is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Beaver Creek is among the best in the world. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Islamorada is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is mediocre for theatre. However, Islamorada is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Islamorada is not a theatre destination.

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

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Islamorada and Beaver Creek.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Islamorada. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.


Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

With a similar set of options, good resorts can be found in both Islamorada and Beaver Creek.

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

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaver Creek is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Beaver Creek is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Islamorada is a great village for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Islamorada. 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.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a great town for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Beaver Creek 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.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.


Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Islamorada and Beaver Creek are both amazing destinations for the whole family.

Islamorada is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. 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.

Beaver Creek is an extremely popular village to visit for families. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Is Islamorada or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Islamorada is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Islamorada has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

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

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

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 Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is renowned for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Beaver Creek is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

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 Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Both Islamorada and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Beaver Creek. 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 Beaver Creek. 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.


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

One day in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing village offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With shopping and skiing around the charming town of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With skiing and food around the destination of Beaver Creek, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this adventurous destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Islamorada is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the skiing. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. 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, Beaver Creek 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 Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Beaver Creek? 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 Beaver Creek


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 Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek 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
    Beaver Creek $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar: $225
  • Day Tour Glass Bottom Boat In Islamorada: $80
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515
  • Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise Music : $86
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure on Pontoon : $80
  • Guided Tour with Local Highlights: $95
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip: $130
  • Snorkel Adventure & Sandbar Trip from Cheeca Spa: $140
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $150
  • Snorkel adventure & Sandbar Trip : $160
  • Snorkeling Experience : $80
  • Snorkeling and Beach Adventure: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Beaver Creek $35


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