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

Should you visit Islamorada or Nantucket?

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

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

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Islamorada and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Islamorada and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Islamorada is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Islamorada different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Nantucket

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

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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.


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

Islamorada
Nantucket

Nantucket 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, Nantucket is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Nantucket

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Islamorada and Nantucket.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Islamorada or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

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 Nantucket Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Nantucket

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

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Nantucket

Both Islamorada and Nantucket have excellent 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 Nantucket attract visitors from all over. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Islamorada or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Islamorada
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for its historic old town. However, Islamorada does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Nantucket to see the historical old town. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Islamorada does not have a historic old town.


Is Islamorada or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Nantucket

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

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Nantucket?

Islamorada
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island 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 Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket Better for Families?

Islamorada
Nantucket

Islamorada is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly village. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.


Is Islamorada or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Nantucket

Islamorada and Nantucket are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Islamorada has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Nantucket is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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

Islamorada
Nantucket

Nantucket 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 Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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 Nantucket a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Nantucket

Nantucket is a great island for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Nantucket is very walkable. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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 Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Nantucket. 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 Nantucket.

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

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


  • How many days in Islamorada or Nantucket? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Nantucket 2-4

One day in Islamorada or Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Nantucket?

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.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Islamorada or Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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.

Nantucket is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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, Nantucket 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 Nantucket is $350. 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 Nantucket in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Nantucket $237
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Nantucket $474
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Nantucket

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Nantucket? 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 Nantucket


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 Nantucket Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Nantucket $47

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Nantucket?

Prices for flights to both Nantucket 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
    Nantucket $81

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Nantucket $34

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
    Nantucket $35


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Nantucket?

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

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

Both Nantucket and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Nantucket because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Nantucket 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Nantucket. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 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) 
    Nantucket 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Nantucket in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Nantucket. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantucket for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nantucket. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Nantucket 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Nantucket. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Nantucket in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Islamorada is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite rainy in Nantucket. Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Nantucket. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 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) 
    Nantucket 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Nantucket and Islamorada

Islamorada Nantucket
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)