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

Should you visit Islamorada or Charleston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Charleston, 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.

Charleston

Charleston is a historic, classic, and picturesque coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Islamorada and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Charleston?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Charleston than Islamorada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Charleston is better known for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Islamorada is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Charleston is well known for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. Also, Charleston is famous for The Waterfront Park.

How is Islamorada different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Charleston offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

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

Charleston is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Islamorada and Charleston.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Islamorada is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Islamorada is not a live music destination.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, notable resorts can be found in both Islamorada and Charleston.

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, Charleston makes a nice vacation spot. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston 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.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Both Islamorada and Charleston have superb 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 Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is renowned for its historic old town. However, Islamorada does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Charleston is one of the most recognized in the world. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Islamorada does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Charleston?

Charleston is renowned for shopping. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Charleston. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Islamorada offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Islamorada does not offer Christmas activities.

Charleston is a very popular destination during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Islamorada does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Islamorada does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Islamorada does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Families?

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

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.

Charleston is a family-friendly village. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Couples?

Islamorada and Charleston are both amazing 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.

Charleston is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Is Islamorada or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Islamorada is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Islamorada is not popular with students.

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

Charleston 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 Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

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 Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is a great coastal town for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have 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 Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Charleston?

Both Islamorada and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than Islamorada. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston 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 Charleston.

One day in Islamorada or Charleston?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical village of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With live music and food around the quaint coastal town of Charleston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and shopping around the destination of Charleston, 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 coastal town.

Five days in Islamorada or Charleston?

Islamorada, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this village. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Charleston?

Islamorada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this village makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Charleston, 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 Charleston?

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 Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In July, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Charleston. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Charleston. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Charleston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Charleston fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 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 Charleston. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Should I visit Islamorada or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Charleston. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Charleston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Charleston averages at about 47°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 Charleston. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Charleston. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Islamorada