A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Islamorada vs. West Palm Beach for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or West Palm Beach, 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 adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a fun-filled, diverse, and vibrant beach area. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Islamorada and West Palm Beach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and West Palm Beach are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while West Palm Beach is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. West Palm Beach is popular for its nice resorts, a lively boardwalk, great seafood, and fun watersports.

How is Islamorada different from West Palm Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

Islamorada is a popular place for its historical sights. However, West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

West Palm Beach does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Islamorada or West Palm Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

Islamorada is a great village for its local flavors and cuisine. However, West Palm Beach is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in West Palm Beach. Oceanfront restaurants usually have a great view and offer local and fresh seafood. There are also many local restaurants concentrated around Clematis Street and CityPlace districts.

Is Islamorada or West Palm Beach Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in West Palm Beach has something for everybody. With rooftop bars and clubs, oceanfront venues, and plenty of nightlife options downtown, this city rivals most places when it comes to nightlife. The nightlife scene is particularly active during spring break, when university students head to town.

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 West Palm Beach Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

West Palm Beach offers an unforgettable resort vacation. All of the major names are present including the Hilton, Marriott, and Four Seasons.

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 West Palm Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is a great beach area for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to West Palm Beach to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Check out Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach. It's a man-made reef that is surprisingly clear.

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.

Is Islamorada or West Palm Beach Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beache.

The beaches in West Palm Beach are among the best in the world. From bustling beaches with a boardwalk to quieter, more relaxing beaches surrounded by parkland, there are are number of options in the area.

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 West Palm Beach?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

Islamorada is a popular place for shopping. However, West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

West Palm Beach is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Islamorada or West Palm Beach Better for Families?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

Islamorada is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area 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.

West Palm Beach is a very kid-friendly village. Animal lovers will appreciate the zoos and aquariums in the area. Check out McCarthy's Wildlife Sanctuary, Manatee Lagoon, the Palm Beach Zoo, and the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium.

Is Islamorada or West Palm Beach Better for Couples?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

Islamorada is very popular for romance. Also, West Palm Beach is not as popular, but is still a nice beach area for its romantic activities.

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.

West Palm Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will enjoy kayaking, dining out, or simply relaxing on the beach. It's fun to spend a day exploring the botanical gardens and an evening wandering around Clematis Street.

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

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a downtown trolley, a commuter trail line (connecting West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale), and a bus system with about 30 lines.

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 West Palm Beach a more walkable city?

Islamorada
West Palm Beach

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

West Palm Beach is somewhat walkable. West Palm Beach has a surprisingly walkable area and it's possible to explore the downtown area 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 West Palm Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in West Palm Beach or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

Both Islamorada and West Palm Beach have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-7 days is enough time in West Palm Beach.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach 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.


  • How many days in Islamorada or West Palm Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    West Palm Beach 3-7

One day in Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

The adventurous destination of Islamorada offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the fun-filled beach area of West Palm Beach, 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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

The village of Islamorada offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of West Palm Beach, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This village offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

West Palm Beach, a popular beach area, 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 beach area. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

The tropical village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

West Palm Beach is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this beach area makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this beach area has to offer. 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, West Palm Beach 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 West Palm Beach is $330. 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 West Palm Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    West Palm Beach $234
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    West Palm Beach $468
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and West Palm Beach

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or West Palm Beach? 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 West Palm Beach


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 West Palm Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    West Palm Beach $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in West Palm Beach

Also for West Palm Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Palm Beach Airport PBI to Palm Beach in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Palm Beach to Palm Beach Airport PBI in Luxury SUV: $108
  • Palm Beach Intl Airport (PBI) to Port of Palm Beach - RoundTrip Private Transfer: $83
  • Palm Beach to Palm Beach Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

Prices for flights to both West Palm Beach 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
    West Palm Beach $66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in West Palm Beach

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

  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Mornings in the Market Food Tour: $75
  • Downtown West Palm Beach Food Tour: $85
  • Downtown Food Tour: $85
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Food Tour of Historic West Palm Beach Neighborhoods: $101
  • Prohibition Dinner & Drinks Tour: $101
  • Historic Neighborhood Food Tour: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    West Palm Beach $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

Tours and Activities in West Palm Beach

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for West Palm Beach.

  • 2-Hour Guided Snorkel Tour of Phil Foster Park, Blue Heron Bridge: $60
  • 3 Hour Cruise & Swimming Excursion off Peanut Island Park: $77
  • Beginner Scuba Diving Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $99
  • Beginner Snorkel Tour With Videos in West Palm Beach: $49
  • Blue Heron Bridge Guided Snorkel Tour : $90
  • Bulk Candy Store Tour: $13
  • Christmas Light Cruise from Jupiter: $75
  • Clear Kayak Eco Tour in Jupiter, Florida: $75
  • Clear Kayak Tour in Jupiter: $79
  • Experience Peanut Island Adventures: $50
  • Flamingle Happy Hour Cruise: $40
  • Historical Sightseeing Catamaran Cruise in Palm Beach: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    West Palm Beach $39


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or West Palm Beach?

West Palm Beach has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and West Palm Beach, 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 West Palm Beach?

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 West Palm Beach in the Summer?

Both West Palm Beach and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to West Palm Beach for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in West Palm Beach. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 6.5 inches (166 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    West Palm Beach 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or West Palm Beach in the Autumn?

Both West Palm Beach and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Islamorada is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and West Palm Beach averages at about 78°F (25°C).

In West Palm Beach, 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 West Palm Beach. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 275 hours of full sun.

West Palm Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets less rain in October than West Palm Beach. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 8.7 inches (222 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November. Also, the hurricane season in West Palm Beach is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    West Palm Beach 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or West Palm Beach in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and West Palm Beach. 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 West Palm Beach this time of year.

In January, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than West Palm Beach. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 65°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in West Palm Beach this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as West Palm Beach during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while West Palm Beach receives 243 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than West Palm Beach. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    West Palm Beach 65°F (19°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or West Palm Beach in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as West Palm Beach. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to West Palm Beach for the beaches.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as West Palm Beach in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and West Palm Beach fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in West Palm Beach. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than West Palm Beach. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while West Palm Beach receives 300 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than West Palm Beach. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while West Palm Beach receives 3.5 inches (89 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 West Palm Beach.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    West Palm Beach 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for West Palm Beach and Islamorada

Islamorada West Palm Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 65°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 66°F (19°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (131 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 82°F (28°C) 6.5 inches (166 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 83°F (28°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 81°F (27°C) 9.8 inches (250 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 78°F (25°C) 8.7 inches (222 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (63 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)