A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Big Sur for Families, Couples, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Islamorada or Big Sur?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Big Sur, 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Islamorada and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Islamorada different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada is very good for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Islamorada. 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Islamorada is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Islamorada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur 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.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Both Islamorada and Big Sur have excellent beaches worth visiting.

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.

The beaches at Big Sur attract visitors from all over. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is a great natural area for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Big Sur?

Islamorada is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Islamorada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Families?

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

Islamorada is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Islamorada and Big Sur are both terrific to visit as a couple.

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.

Big Sur is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur 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 Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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 Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Islamorada or Big Sur 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 Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Islamorada or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Neither Islamorada or Big Sur are walkable places.

Islamorada is not a very walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

Big Sur is not a walkable village. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Big Sur?

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

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur. 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.

One day in Islamorada or Big Sur?

In Islamorada, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This village offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food around the remote natural area of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Big Sur?

In Islamorada, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With food around the destination of Big Sur, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this natural area.

Five days in Islamorada or Big Sur?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Islamorada has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur, a popular natural area, 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 Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. In Islamorada, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Big Sur 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 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.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Islamorada Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Islamorada or Big Sur?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Islamorada or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In July, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

Islamorada is much warmer than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Big Sur. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Big Sur. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Sur for the cuisine.

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Big Sur. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Big Sur. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Big Sur in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Big Sur. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Islamorada