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

Should you visit Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

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

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

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

Islamorada and Jekyll Island: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its hiking. Islamorada is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Islamorada different from Jekyll Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

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

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.

Jekyll Island offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.


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

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a village with good options for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a village with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.


Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a village with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Both Islamorada and Jekyll Island have high quality 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 Jekyll Island attract visitors from all over. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a great island for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Jekyll Island for the hiking trails. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a village with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options 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.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Families?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Islamorada is an extremely popular village to visit for families. 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.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Islamorada is a great village for couples, as it 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.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.


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

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Neither Islamorada or Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Islamorada or Jekyll Island a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Jekyll Island

Neither Islamorada or Jekyll Island 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.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable village. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jekyll Island or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Jekyll Island. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Islamorada due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-4 days is enough time in Jekyll Island.

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

One day in Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Islamorada. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With museums around the relaxing island of Jekyll Island, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums around the destination of Jekyll Island, 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 island.

Five days in Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the adventurous destination of Islamorada. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Jekyll Island, a popular island, 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 Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful village of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Jekyll Island 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, Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island is $156. 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 Jekyll Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Jekyll Island $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Jekyll Island $176
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Jekyll Island

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Jekyll Island? 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 Jekyll Island


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 Jekyll Island Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Jekyll Island $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

Prices for flights to both Jekyll Island 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
    Jekyll Island $45

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Jekyll Island $10

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Jekyll Island $6.43


When comparing the travel costs between Islamorada and Jekyll Island, we can see that Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Islamorada or Jekyll Island?

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 Jekyll Island in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Jekyll Island. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Jekyll Island in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Jekyll Island. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

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

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

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Jekyll Island. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Jekyll Island 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Jekyll Island in the Winter?

Both Jekyll Island and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Jekyll Island. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Jekyll Island 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 Jekyll Island during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Jekyll Island in the Spring?

Both Jekyll Island and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches.

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

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

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


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Jekyll Island and Islamorada

Islamorada Jekyll Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)