A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Islamorada vs. Tamarindo for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Islamorada or Tamarindo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Tamarindo, 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 Islamorada is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Islamorada travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a laid back, chill, and scenic town. Tamarindo is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Islamorada and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Tamarindo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Tamarindo are popular destinations, Islamorada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Islamorada is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty, while Tamarindo attracts visitors for its nightlife. Islamorada is famous for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also well known for Theater of the Sea. Tamarindo is famous for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles.

How is Islamorada different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Tamarindo is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Tamarindo specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.

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

Islamorada is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Tamarindo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a combination of beach bars and restaurants in town that offer local cuisine and international options. Many places have a laid back vibe that fits with the town's atmosphere but you'll also find some more upscale options.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Tamarindo 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 Tamarindo has something for everybody. The town has beach bars, dance clubs, and regular parties that attract tourists and locals alike. The evening has a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing or swimming.

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 Tamarindo Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Tamarindo 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.

Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

Both Islamorada and Tamarindo have superb 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 Tamarindo attract visitors from all over. The beaches are popular with surfers but the currents can be strong so swimmers should use caution. The golden sand and beautiful setting make this a fun and chill beach destination. There are also plenty of water sports to choose from.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Tamarindo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Tamarindo both offer plenty of nice 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.

Tamarindo offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Islamorada is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Islamorada is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

Tamarindo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo Better for Families?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tamarindo. The golden beaches offer a great escape for families. The surf can be a bit strong, but the kids will love seeing the sea turtles or going horseback riding. There are also beginning surfing lessons available.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

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

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.

Tamarindo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy romantic horseback rides along the beach, sunset cruises, and romantic meals. For the adventurous, there's surfing lessons and wildlife tours.

Is Islamorada or Tamarindo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tamarindo is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Tamarindo is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

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

Tamarindo 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 Tamarindo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are three public bus lines 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 Tamarindo a more walkable city?

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

Tamarindo is very walkable. The town is easy to walk around and explore on foot.

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 Tamarindo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Tamarindo?

In either Islamorada or Tamarindo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than Tamarindo 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 Tamarindo.

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

One day in Islamorada or Tamarindo?

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.

With shopping and nightlife around the scenic town of Tamarindo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Tamarindo?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxing 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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Tamarindo, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Islamorada or Tamarindo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the adventurous 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.

Tamarindo, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Tamarindo?

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.

Tamarindo 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Islamorada and Tamarindo, we can see that Islamorada is more expensive. And not only is Tamarindo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Islamorada is in North America and Tamarindo is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Tamarindo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tamarindo 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 Islamorada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Islamorada than you might in Tamarindo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Islamorada Expensive? and Is Tamarindo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Islamorada or Tamarindo?

Islamorada has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Tamarindo experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tamarindo in the Summer?

Both Tamarindo and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Tamarindo year-round.

In the summer, Islamorada is around the same temperature as Tamarindo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Islamorada in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Tamarindo averages at about 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Tamarindo. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 164 hours of full sun.

Tamarindo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Tamarindo. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tamarindo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Tamarindo. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Tamarindo attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Tamarindo. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 80°F (27°C), and Tamarindo fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Tamarindo during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tamarindo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Tamarindo. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada. December to May in Tamarindo is the dry season. June to November is the hurricane season in Tamarindo.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tamarindo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Tamarindo. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Tamarindo throughout the year.

Islamorada is cooler than Tamarindo in the winter. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Tamarindo fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tamarindo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the winter, Islamorada often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tamarindo. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 264 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets more rain in January than Tamarindo. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tamarindo in the Spring?

Both Tamarindo and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to Tamarindo because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Islamorada is cooler than Tamarindo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Islamorada in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Tamarindo averages at about 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in Tamarindo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Tamarindo during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Tamarindo. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season. The dry season in Tamarindo is December to May. June to November in Tamarindo is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Tamarindo and Islamorada