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

Should you visit Islamorada or El Paso?

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

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

El Paso

El Paso is a laid-back, low-key, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada and El Paso: 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
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or El Paso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and El Paso are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more touristy than El Paso and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. El Paso is popular for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is Islamorada different from El Paso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
El Paso

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

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.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.


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

Islamorada
El Paso

Islamorada is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is Islamorada or El Paso Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
El Paso

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Islamorada and El Paso.

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 El Paso. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is Islamorada or El Paso Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
El Paso

Islamorada is very good for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or El Paso Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
El Paso

Islamorada is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or El Paso Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
El Paso

Islamorada is a very popular place for its beaches. However, El Paso is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or El Paso?

Islamorada
El Paso

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and El Paso 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.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.


Is Islamorada or El Paso Better for Families?

Islamorada
El Paso

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is Islamorada or El Paso Better for Couples?

Islamorada
El Paso

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Islamorada 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.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.

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

Islamorada
El Paso

El Paso 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 El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

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 El Paso a more walkable city?

Islamorada
El Paso

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

El Paso is generally not a very walkable city. You really need a car to get around town.

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 El Paso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in El Paso or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or El Paso?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Islamorada or El Paso to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Islamorada than El Paso 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 El Paso.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than El Paso. 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 El Paso. 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 El Paso 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 El Paso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    El Paso 1-2

One day in Islamorada or El Paso?

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

A weekend in Islamorada or El Paso?

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 nightlife and food around the destination of El Paso, 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 city.


Five days in Islamorada or El Paso?

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.

El Paso, a popular city, 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 El Paso?

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.

El Paso 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.


Which place is cheaper, El Paso 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 El Paso is $161. 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 El Paso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    El Paso $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    El Paso $162
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and El Paso

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or El Paso? 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 El Paso


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 El Paso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    El Paso $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

Also for El Paso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $240
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or El Paso?

Prices for flights to both El Paso 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
    El Paso $54

Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    El Paso $27

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

Tours and Activities in El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    El Paso $27


When comparing the travel costs between Islamorada and El Paso, we can see that El Paso is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or El Paso?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and El Paso, 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.