A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Islamorada vs. Jacksonville for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Islamorada or Jacksonville?

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

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

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a under-rated, lively, and youthful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada and Jacksonville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Jacksonville?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Islamorada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jacksonville is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Islamorada is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Islamorada is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Islamorada different from Jacksonville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Jacksonville is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Jacksonville can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Islamorada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Islamorada and Jacksonville.

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 Jacksonville. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

Is Islamorada or Jacksonville Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville is a great city for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Jacksonville has something for everybody. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Islamorada. 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.

Is Islamorada or Jacksonville Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a good destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Jacksonville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Jacksonville Better for Beaches?

Both Islamorada and Jacksonville have great 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 Jacksonville attract visitors from all over. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville is a great city for shopping. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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 Jacksonville Better for Families?

Islamorada is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Islamorada is very family-friendly. 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 Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Islamorada or Jacksonville Better for Couples?

Islamorada is renowned for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Islamorada is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Islamorada or Jacksonville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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 Jacksonville Better for Students?

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Islamorada is not popular with students.

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

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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 Jacksonville a more walkable city?

Jacksonville is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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 Jacksonville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jacksonville or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Jacksonville?

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

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Jacksonville. 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 Jacksonville. 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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville.

One day in Islamorada or Jacksonville?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this tropical 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 museums and nightlife around the youthful city of Jacksonville, 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.

A weekend in Islamorada or Jacksonville?

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 nightlife and food around the destination of Jacksonville, 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 city.

Five days in Islamorada or Jacksonville?

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.

Jacksonville, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Jacksonville?

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.

Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville, we can see that Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Jacksonville, 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 Jacksonville?

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 Jacksonville in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Jacksonville. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Jacksonville in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Jacksonville during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jacksonville receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Jacksonville. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Jacksonville in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Jacksonville. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Jacksonville in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Jacksonville fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Jacksonville. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 214 hours of full sun.

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Jacksonville. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.

Should I visit Islamorada or Jacksonville in the Winter?

Both Jacksonville and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Jacksonville because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Jacksonville. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Jacksonville averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Jacksonville during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Jacksonville. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Jacksonville in the Spring?

Both Jacksonville and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year.

In April, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Jacksonville. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Jacksonville fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Jacksonville. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 285 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Jacksonville. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Jacksonville and Islamorada