A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jaco vs. Key West for Nightlife, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Jaco or Key West?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Jaco or Key West, 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.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Jaco travel costs.

Key West

Key West is a active, lively, and quaint town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Key West travel costs.

Jaco and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jaco or Key West?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Jaco and Key West are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Jaco is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Jaco is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Key West is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street.

How is Jaco different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Key West and Jaco. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jaco or Key West?

Jaco is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Jaco or Key West? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Jaco is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Resorts?

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jaco is not a resort destination.

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Jaco is not a resort destination.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good snorkeling or scuba diving in both Jaco and Key West.

Jaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Beaches?

Key West is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Key West. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Jaco. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Key West to see the historical old town. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Jaco or Key West?

Jaco is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Jaco offers some nice shopping areas. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Jaco or Key West More Beautiful?

Key West is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Families?

Key West is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Couples?

Key West is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jaco is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Jaco is a great town to visit for backpackers. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Jaco is not popular with students.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Jaco is not popular with students.

Is Jaco or Key West Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jaco is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Jaco or Key West a more walkable city?

Jaco is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Jaco is a very walkable town. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Jaco Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Jaco?

How long in Jaco or Key West?

Both Jaco and Key West have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Jaco. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Jaco, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Jaco. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Key West, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jaco than Key West 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 Jaco.

One day in Jaco or Key West?

The town of Jaco offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Key West. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jaco or Key West?

Jaco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Key West is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Jaco or Key West?

Jaco is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Jaco or Key West?

Jaco is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the bustling town of Key West. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jaco and Key West, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Jaco is in Central America and Key West is in North 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 Jaco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jaco 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 Key West would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Key West than you might in Jaco.

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

Which is Bigger, Jaco or Key West?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Jaco and Key West, 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 Jaco or Key West?

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

Should I visit Jaco or Key West in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jaco as well as Key West. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. In the summer, Jaco often gets less sunshine than Key West. Jaco gets 164 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 328 hours of full sun.

Jaco receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jaco usually gets more rain in July than Key West. Jaco gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jaco or Key West in the Autumn?

Both Key West and Jaco are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Jaco is around the same temperature as Key West in the autumn. The daily temperature in Jaco averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. Jaco usually receives less sunshine than Key West during autumn. Jaco gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. It's quite rainy in Jaco. In October, Jaco usually receives more rain than Key West. Jaco gets 254 mm (10 in) of rain, while Key West receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Jaco is November to May. The hurricane season in Jaco is June to October. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Jaco or Key West in the Winter?

Both Key West and Jaco during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

In the winter, Jaco is a little warmer than Key West. Typically, the winter temperatures in Jaco in January average around 27°C (81°F), and Key West averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jaco. In the winter, Jaco often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key West. Jaco gets 264 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 252 hours of full sun.

Jaco usually gets less rain in January than Key West. Jaco gets 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Key West receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Jaco or Key West in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jaco and Key West. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Jaco is generally a little warmer than Key West. Daily temperatures in Jaco average around 29°C (85°F), and Key West fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In Jaco, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jaco usually receives less sunshine than Key West during spring. Jaco gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jaco usually receives more rain than Key West. Jaco gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring. November to May in Jaco is the dry season. June to October is the hurricane season in Jaco. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Key West and Jaco