A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Napa Valley for Food, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Islamorada or Napa Valley?

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

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

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada and Napa Valley: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Napa Valley, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Napa Valley is more popular for its food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Napa Valley is well known for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside.

How is Islamorada different from Napa Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Islamorada is a village with good options for its historical sights. However, Napa Valley is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Islamorada. 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.

Napa Valley offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.


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

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Napa Valley 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, Napa Valley is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Napa Valley has something for everybody. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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 Napa Valley Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Islamorada is a village with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Napa Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Islamorada is a village with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Napa Valley Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Islamorada is a great village for the beach. However, Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

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.

Napa Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Napa Valley Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a great area 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 Napa Valley. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley Better for Families?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Islamorada is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Napa Valley is not as popular, but is still a nice area 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.

Napa Valley is a family-friendly place to visit. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Is Islamorada or Napa Valley Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Islamorada and Napa Valley are both first-rate 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.

Napa Valley is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.


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

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Neither Islamorada or Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

Is Islamorada or Napa Valley a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Napa Valley

Neither Islamorada or Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley is not a walkable village. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Napa Valley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Napa Valley or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Napa Valley?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Napa Valley. 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 1-4 days is enough time in Napa Valley.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Napa Valley. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Napa Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Napa Valley 1-4

One day in Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventurous village of Islamorada. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic area of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Napa Valley, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the tropical destination of Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This village offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Napa Valley, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 area.

Five days in Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing village of Islamorada. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Napa Valley, a popular area, 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 Napa Valley?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Islamorada. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this village.

Napa Valley 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, Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley is $288. 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 Napa Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Napa Valley $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Napa Valley $252
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Napa Valley

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Napa Valley? 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 Napa Valley


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 Napa Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Napa Valley $183

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286
  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Prices for flights to both Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Napa Valley $28

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 Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • #1 Sonoma Walking Food, Wine & History Tour (Small Groups): $179
  • 3-Hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike: $175
  • Behind-the-Scenes Food and Wine E-Bike Tour: $179
  • Full-Day Napa Valley E-Bike Tour: $225
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Private Sidecar Winery Tour through Napa Valley: $165
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Napa Valley $66

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Napa Valley?

Napa Valley has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Napa Valley, 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 Napa Valley?

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 Napa Valley in the Summer?

Both Napa Valley and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Napa Valley for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives less sunshine than Napa Valley during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 439 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Napa Valley. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Napa Valley in the Autumn?

Both Napa Valley and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Napa Valley in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Islamorada is much warmer than Napa Valley in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Napa Valley fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets less sunshine than Napa Valley. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 300 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Napa Valley. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.3 inches (33 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) 
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Napa Valley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Napa Valley. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Napa Valley. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Napa Valley averages at about 46°F (8°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Napa Valley during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Napa Valley receives 149 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Napa Valley. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Napa Valley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Napa Valley. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Napa Valley. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Napa Valley fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Napa Valley. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Napa Valley receives 328 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Napa Valley. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Napa Valley receives 1.2 inches (31 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) 
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Napa Valley and Islamorada

Islamorada Napa Valley
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)