A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Islamorada vs. Tallahassee for Families, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Islamorada or Tallahassee?

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

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

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a vibrant, youthful, and lively city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Islamorada and Tallahassee: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Tallahassee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Tallahassee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Tallahassee is more popular for its museums. Islamorada is more touristy than Tallahassee and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Tallahassee is well known for its capital building and many universities.

How is Islamorada different from Tallahassee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Tallahassee can be an interesting and educational experience. As the capital city of Florida, you'll find a number of museums around town. Tallahassee Museum has outdoor and indoor space to explore. You can also visit the Tallahassee Automobile Museum, the Museum of Florida History, or the Florida Historic Capital Museum.

Islamorada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.


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

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Islamorada is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Islamorada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Tallahassee offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find plenty of chain restaurants and cheap eateries that cater to the students. The main options are classic American restaurants with a few international restaurants mixed in as well.

Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

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

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 Tallahassee. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the student population. There are many bars and pubs that fill up with students on weekends.

Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Islamorada is great for the beach. However, Tallahassee 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.

Tallahassee is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Tallahassee?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Tallahassee both offer plenty of notable spots.

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

Tallahassee offers some nice shopping areas. There is no shortage of strip malls and shopping centers in the area. Some of the most interesting shopping is found at Railroad Square and Market Square.


Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Families?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

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

Tallahassee is a family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor parks and adventure activities for kids. You could also see the wild manatees at Wakulla Springs.

Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for couples. However, Tallahassee is not a good destination for romance.

Islamorada is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Tallahassee is not the best destination for a couple to visit. Head to a restaurant or bar. You could also check out a concert or explore a garden or park in town.

Is Islamorada or Tallahassee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. The student population creates an environment that is welcoming to backpackers. There's also a hostel in town with affordable rooms.

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 Tallahassee Better for Students?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Islamorada is not popular with students.

Tallahassee is a great city to visit as a student. Both Florida State University and Florida A&M University are located here. There's a large student population with many activities and cheap restaurants that appeal to the student crowd.

Islamorada is not popular with students.

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

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee. There is a bus system operated by StarMetro.

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 Tallahassee a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Tallahassee

Tallahassee is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Tallahassee is generally not a very walkable city. There are a couple of walkable areas around Railroad Square, Downtown, and Midtown, but for the most part the city is not pedestrian-friendly.

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 Tallahassee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tallahassee or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Tallahassee?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Islamorada or Tallahassee to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Islamorada than Tallahassee because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-2 days is enough time in Tallahassee.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee. 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 Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Tallahassee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Tallahassee 1-2

One day in Islamorada or Tallahassee?

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 museums and nightlife around the lively city of Tallahassee, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tallahassee, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Tallahassee?

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 shopping around the destination of Tallahassee, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Islamorada or Tallahassee?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the tropical 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.

Tallahassee, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Tallahassee?

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.

Tallahassee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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, Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee is $156. 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 Tallahassee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Tallahassee $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Tallahassee $178
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Tallahassee

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Tallahassee? 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 Tallahassee


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 Tallahassee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Tallahassee $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Tallahassee?

Prices for flights to both Tallahassee 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
    Tallahassee $47

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Tallahassee $12

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
  • Islamorada Sandbar and Sunset Tour : $94
  • 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

Tours and Activities in Tallahassee

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

  • Experience Tranquility with a Picnic at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Luxury Picnic Experience at Pedrick Pond Park: $120
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $247
  • Tallahassee Delights: A Christmas Tour Through Art and Parks: $482
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $192
  • Tallahassee Tranquility: A Scenic Walking Tour: $375

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Tallahassee $53


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Tallahassee?

Tallahassee has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Tallahassee, 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 Tallahassee?

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 Tallahassee in the Summer?

Both Tallahassee 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 Tallahassee for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Tallahassee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 8.9 inches (227 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Tallahassee 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Tallahassee in the Autumn?

Both Tallahassee 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tallahassee in the autumn for the shopping scene.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Tallahassee in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Tallahassee fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Tallahassee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tallahassee. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 256 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Tallahassee. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tallahassee.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Tallahassee 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Tallahassee in the Winter?

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

In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Tallahassee. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Tallahassee averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Tallahassee during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Tallahassee receives 185 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Tallahassee. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 3.7 inches (95 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Tallahassee 51°F (11°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Tallahassee in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Tallahassee. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Tallahassee. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Tallahassee fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tallahassee. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Tallahassee. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tallahassee receives 295 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tallahassee. Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Tallahassee. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Tallahassee receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Tallahassee is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Tallahassee 67°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Tallahassee and Islamorada

Islamorada Tallahassee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (121 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 60°F (16°C) 5.9 inches (151 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (168 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 8.9 inches (227 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (175 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 78°F (26°C) 6.7 inches (169 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)