A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Nags Head for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Islamorada or Nags Head?

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

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

Nags Head

Other reasons to visit include food.

Islamorada and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Nags Head?

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

How is Islamorada different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is a popular place for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is great for its beaches. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Nags Head?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Families?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly village. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Islamorada or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Nags Head 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 Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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 Nags Head Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have 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.

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Islamorada or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Nags Head

Islamorada is mediocre for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Nags Head?

Both Islamorada and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Islamorada has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Islamorada than Nags Head. However, 4-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Islamorada or Nags Head?

You'll find nightlife and food around the village of Islamorada. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food around the of Nags Head, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Islamorada or Nags Head?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical destination of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food around the destination of Nags Head, there's plenty to do. 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 Nags Head?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing village of Islamorada. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

Nags Head, a popular , is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this . Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Nags Head?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head 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 Nags Head is $149. 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 Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Nags Head? 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 Nags Head


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 Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Nags Head $40

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $41

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Nags Head $14

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 Nags Head

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Nags Head.

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $57
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Corolla Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Manteo Historic Walking Tour: $28
  • OBX Ghost Tours: $25
  • Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour: $13
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Nags Head $12


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Nags Head?

Islamorada has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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 Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Nags Head for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Nags Head in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Nags Head in the Autumn?

Both Nags Head and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Nags Head averages at about 62°F (16°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Nags Head. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Nags Head. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nags Head in the winter. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Nags Head in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Nags Head. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year.

Islamorada is much warmer than Nags Head in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Nags Head. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Islamorada

Islamorada Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)