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

Should you visit Islamorada or Santa Monica?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Santa Monica, 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 relaxing, tropical, and adventurous village. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a energetic, active, and lively town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada and Santa Monica: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Santa Monica?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Santa Monica. Although Islamorada and Santa Monica are popular destinations, Santa Monica has more sights and attractions for tourists. Santa Monica is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Islamorada attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Santa Monica is more touristy than Islamorada and is popular for its active lifestyle and fun-filled activities. It is also well known for the Santa Monica Pier. Islamorada is famous for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

How is Islamorada different from Santa Monica?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Islamorada or Santa Monica.

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.

Santa Monica offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There's a thriving arts scene and a number of museums around town. Check out the Museum of Flying, the California Heritage Museum, or the Santa Monica History Museum.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Islamorada and Santa Monica.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Santa Monica. You'll find a diversity of restaurants in the area, many of which make use of the town's many farmer's markets. The restaurant scene has a beachy vibe with a lot of outdoor dining opportunities. There are also a range of cuisines to choose from such as Mexican, Italian, casual, and upscale.

Is Islamorada or Santa Monica Better for Nightlife?

Santa Monica is a great town for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Santa Monica has something for everybody. There's a relaxed and laid back vibe to the nightlife scene. Many venues offer outdoor seating and live music in a casual setting. You can hang out on a patio and enjoy the California climate while you sip cold drinks and the beach town atmosphere.

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 Santa Monica Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a popular place for its resorts. However, Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

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.

Santa Monica is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Santa Monica Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Santa Monica 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.

Santa Monica is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Santa Monica Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches in Santa Monica are among the best in the world. Santa Monica Beach is large and lined with bike trails. It's also filled with activity and you'll find many water sports, beach volleyball, and surfing in the area. There's also the famous Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park aquarium, Ferris wheal, dining, and shopping.

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 Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is a great town 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 Santa Monica. It's easy to pass the time shopping in Santa Monica. There are independent vendors, fashion boutiques, and art galleries. Head to Montana Avenue or Main Street for some of the best 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 Santa Monica Better for Families?

Islamorada and Santa Monica are both fantastic destinations for the whole family.

Islamorada is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. 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.

Santa Monica is an extremely popular village to visit for families. Many families spend their days hanging out on the beaches, soaking up the sun, and even trying to surf. There's a boardwalk as well as bike paths that are perfect for people watching. You should also check out the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, which is a thrilling amusement park.

Is Islamorada or Santa Monica Better for Couples?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Santa Monica is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Santa Monica makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun days on the beach, peaceful walks at sunset, and a wild nightlife scene make this the perfect couples destination for couples who enjoy activity and excitement.

Is Islamorada or Santa Monica Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica. There's no shortage of activities in the area, whether you're into surfing, partying, or sunbathing. There's also at least one hostel that's great for budget travelers and 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 Santa Monica Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Islamorada is not a good place to visit for its public transit. However, Santa Monica does not have public transit.

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.

Santa Monica does not have public transit. The Metro E Line connects the city to downtown Los Angeles. There's also the Big Blue Bus as well the Santa Monica Circuit, which are small electric carts that offer free rides between Wilshire Boulevard and Marine Street, and from the ocean to Fifth Street.

Is Islamorada or Santa Monica a more walkable city?

Santa Monica is a great town for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Santa Monica is very walkable. The city is very walkable, particularly in the more touristy areas.

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 Santa Monica Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Santa Monica or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Santa Monica?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Santa Monica. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Santa Monica. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Santa Monica.

Couples should spend more time in Islamorada than Santa Monica. 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 Santa Monica 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 Santa Monica.

One day in Islamorada or Santa Monica?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxing village offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With museums and nightlife around the lively town of Santa Monica, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Santa Monica, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Santa Monica?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Santa Monica, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Islamorada or Santa Monica?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this tropical destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Santa Monica, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Santa Monica?

Islamorada is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Santa Monica is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Santa Monica?

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

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 Santa Monica in the Summer?

Both Santa Monica and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Santa Monica for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Islamorada is a little warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the summer temperatures in Islamorada in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 70°F (21°C).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in July than Santa Monica. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Santa Monica in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Santa Monica. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Santa Monica because of the shopping scene.

In October, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Santa Monica. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 80°F (27°C), and Santa Monica fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Santa Monica in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Santa Monica. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Santa Monica this time of year.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Santa Monica in the winter. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Santa Monica fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in January than Santa Monica. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Santa Monica in the Spring?

Both Santa Monica and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Santa Monica for the beaches.

In the spring, Islamorada is much warmer than Santa Monica. Typically, the spring temperatures in Islamorada in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Santa Monica averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Santa Monica. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Santa Monica receives 0.2 inches (4 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Santa Monica and Islamorada