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

Should you visit Islamorada or Hershey?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Hershey, 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hershey

Hershey is a lighthearted, fun-filled, and playful town. Other reasons to visit include shopping and museums.

Islamorada and Hershey: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Hershey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Hershey are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hershey is known for its resorts. Hershey is more touristy than Islamorada and is popular for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea.

How is Islamorada different from Hershey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Hershey

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

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.

Hershey offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).


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

Islamorada
Hershey

Islamorada is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Islamorada makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Islamorada or Hershey Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Hershey

Islamorada is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Islamorada has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Islamorada or Hershey Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Hershey

Hershey is a great town for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

Hershey is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.

With a selection of resorts, Islamorada makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.


Is Islamorada or Hershey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Hershey

Islamorada is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Hershey Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Hershey

Islamorada is a great destination for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Hershey?

Islamorada
Hershey

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

Hershey offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.


Is Islamorada or Hershey Better for Families?

Islamorada
Hershey

Islamorada and Hershey are both fantastic 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.

Hershey is an extremely popular village to visit for families. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Is Islamorada or Hershey Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Hershey

Islamorada is very popular for romance. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Hershey is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.

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

Islamorada
Hershey

Hershey 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 Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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 Hershey a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Hershey

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

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

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 Hershey Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hershey or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Hershey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Hershey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Hershey. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hershey.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Hershey. 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 Hershey. 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 Hershey 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 Hershey? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Hershey 2-3

One day in Islamorada or Hershey?

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 shopping around the lighthearted town of Hershey, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Hershey?

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 shopping and museums around the destination of Hershey, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Hershey?

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.

Hershey, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey?

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.

Hershey 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, Hershey 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 Hershey is $212. 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 Hershey in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Hershey? 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 Hershey


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 Hershey Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Hershey $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Hershey?

Prices for flights to both Hershey 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
    Hershey $61

Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

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

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 Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Hershey $27


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Hershey?

Hershey has a larger population, and is about 85% larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Hershey, 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 Hershey?

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 Hershey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Hershey. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Hershey in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Hershey fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the summer, Islamorada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hershey. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 310 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Hershey. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Hershey 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Hershey in the Autumn?

Both Hershey and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hershey because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Hershey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Hershey averages at about 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Islamorada. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Hershey. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Hershey 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Hershey in the Winter?

Both Hershey and Islamorada during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hershey this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hershey in the winter. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Hershey. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Hershey fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Hershey. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hershey receives 153 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Hershey. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Hershey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Hershey. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year.

Islamorada is much warmer than Hershey in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Hershey fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hershey this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Hershey during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Hershey receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Hershey. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Hershey receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Hershey 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Hershey and Islamorada

Islamorada Hershey
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)