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

Should you visit Islamorada or Sedona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Sedona, 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Sedona

Sedona is a striking, desert, and dramatic town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Islamorada and Sedona: 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 for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Sedona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sedona. Although Islamorada and Sedona are popular destinations, Sedona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sedona is very popular for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Islamorada attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Islamorada is famous for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Sedona is famous for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also well known for Red Rock Crossing Park.

How is Islamorada different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Sedona

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

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.

Sedona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


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

Islamorada
Sedona

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

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 Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Sedona

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

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 Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Sedona

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

Sedona is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

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 Sedona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Sedona

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

Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Sedona

Islamorada is great for the beache. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Islamorada
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Islamorada does not have a historic old town.

Sedona is a good destination for visiting its old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Islamorada does not have a historic old town.


Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Sedona

Sedona is a great town for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sedona for the hiking trails. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Sedona?

Islamorada
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona Better for Families?

Islamorada
Sedona

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.


Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Sedona

Islamorada and Sedona are both fantastic 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.

Sedona is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Is Islamorada or Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Sedona

Sedona 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 Sedona. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Islamorada
Sedona

Sedona is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

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 Sedona a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Sedona

Sedona is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Sedona is somewhat walkable. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have 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 Sedona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Sedona?

In either Islamorada or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than Sedona because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

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


  • How many days in Islamorada or Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in Islamorada or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sedona 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 shopping. 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 Sedona?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Even though Sedona 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. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Islamorada or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sedona, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Sedona?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Islamorada. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Sedona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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, Sedona 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 Sedona is $165. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Sedona

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Sedona? 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 Sedona


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $48

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $119
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $241
  • Cooking class and candlelit dinner with a view: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Sedona $19

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • Private 4-Hour Sedona Spectacular Journey and Vortex Tour: $289
  • Sedona Soul Tour with Shamanic Guide: $295
  • 3-Hour Sedona Spirit Journey and Vortex Tour : $222
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Antelope Canyon X and Horseshoe Bend Scenic Tour from Sedona & Flagstaff: $285
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Small-Group Tour from Sedona or Flagstaff: $285
  • Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Tour from Sedona: $285
  • Antelope Slot Canyon and Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Sedona: $285
  • Best Sightseeing tour in Sedona Vortex and THE CITY VIP : $164
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $74
  • Colorado Plateau on 4x4: 2-Hour Tour from Sedona: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Elevated Social Wine Tours of Sedona's Vineyards : $85
  • Bliss Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour with Lunch Included: $115
  • All inclusive Sedona Join in Wine Tour 200+ 5 star reviews!: $179
  • Tastings Included! EXPRESS PRIVATE ELEVATED WINE TOUR: $199
  • Pedal and Paddle Wine Tour in Arizona: $235
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $295


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Sedona?

Sedona has a larger population, and is about 43% larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Sedona, 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.