A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Islamorada vs. Miami for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Islamorada or Miami?

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

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

Miami

Miami is a diverse, bustling, and high energy beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Islamorada and Miami: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Miami?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Islamorada and Miami are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Islamorada is known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Miami is more touristy than Islamorada and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

How is Islamorada different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami 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, Miami is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

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 Miami Better for Nightlife?

Miami is renowned for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

Miami is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

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 Miami Better for Music?

Miami is renowned for live music. However, Islamorada is not a live music destination.

Miami is known as a music capital around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Islamorada is not a live music destination.

Is Islamorada or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

Miami offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

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 Miami Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Miami Better for Beaches?

Miami is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beache.

The beaches in Miami are among the best in the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

The beaches at Islamorada attract visitors from all over. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Miami?

Miami 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 Miami. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

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 Miami Better for Families?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Islamorada or Miami Better for Couples?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Miami is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Is Islamorada or Miami Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami 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 Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

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 Miami Better for Students?

Miami 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 Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Islamorada is not popular with students.

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

Miami 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 Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around 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 Miami a more walkable city?

Miami is a great beach city for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Miami is very walkable. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for 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 Miami Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Miami or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Miami?

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

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

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

One day in Islamorada or Miami?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this adventurous destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

When visiting Miami, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Islamorada or Miami?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Miami, a popular beach city, 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 beach city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Miami?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Miami is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach city 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 Miami, we can see that Miami 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 Miami would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Miami 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 Miami Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Miami, 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 Miami?

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 Miami in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Miami. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Miami because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Miami in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Miami fluctuates around 83°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. 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 Miami. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 316 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Miami. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Miami. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Miami in the Autumn?

Both Miami and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Miami this time of year.

In the autumn, Islamorada is around the same temperature as Miami. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Miami averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Miami. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Miami during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. It's quite rainy in Islamorada. In October, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Miami. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Islamorada or Miami in the Winter?

Both Miami and Islamorada during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Miami for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Miami. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Miami fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the winter, Islamorada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Miami. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Miami receives 243 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Miami. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Miami in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Miami. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Miami in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Miami in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Miami fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Miami during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Miami receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Miami. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Miami receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Typical Weather for Miami and Islamorada