A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Islamorada vs. Tampa for Families, Couples, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Islamorada or Tampa?

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

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

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches.

Islamorada and Tampa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Tampa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Tampa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tampa is more popular for its big city activities. Islamorada is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Islamorada different from Tampa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Islamorada is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Islamorada or Tampa Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Islamorada or Tampa Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Tampa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tampa is lacking in options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Tampa has a few snorkeling spots. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Is Islamorada or Tampa Better for Beaches?

Both Islamorada and Tampa have very good 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 Tampa attract visitors from all over. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Tampa?

Islamorada is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Islamorada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Islamorada or Tampa Better for Families?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Tampa is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Is Islamorada or Tampa Better for Couples?

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Neither Islamorada or Tampa 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 Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Islamorada or Tampa a more walkable city?

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

Tampa is generally not a very walkable city. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

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 Tampa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tampa or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Tampa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Tampa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Tampa. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-3 days is enough time in Tampa.

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

One day in Islamorada or Tampa?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxing destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With food around the low-key city of Tampa, 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 Tampa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With food around the destination of Tampa, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Tampa?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Tampa, a popular city, 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 Tampa?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Tampa 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Tampa?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Tampa, 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 Tampa?

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 Tampa in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Tampa. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Tampa during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Tampa receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Tampa. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Tampa receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tampa in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Tampa. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Tampa because of the city's sights and attractions.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Tampa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Tampa fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Tampa. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tampa receives 234 hours of full sun.

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Tampa. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Tampa receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tampa in the Winter?

Both Tampa and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Tampa this time of year.

In the winter, Islamorada is a little warmer than Tampa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Tampa averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Tampa. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Tampa during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Tampa receives 200 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Tampa. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Tampa receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Tampa in the Spring?

Both Tampa and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Tampa. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Tampa fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Tampa. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tampa receives 299 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Tampa. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Tampa receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Tampa and Islamorada