A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Cape Cod for Families, Food, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Key Largo or Cape Cod?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Cape Cod can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, food, and beaches.

Key Largo and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cape Cod. Although Key Largo and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Cape Cod has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cape Cod is very popular for its food, beaches, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. It is also well known for The Cape Cod National Seashore.

How is Key Largo different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.


Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Key Largo is adequate for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Key Largo doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Key Largo is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Key Largo to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Key Largo is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

The beaches at Cape Cod attract visitors from all over. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Key Largo is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Key Largo is very family-friendly. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Is Key Largo or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.


Is Key Largo or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beach destination with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Both Key Largo and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cape Cod has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cape Cod than Key Largo. However, 5-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Key Largo or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

The island of Key Largo offers scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

A weekend in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Key Largo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this beach destination makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this beach destination has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Key Largo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key Largo has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Key Largo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $212, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $183. 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 Key Largo and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or Cape Cod? 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 Key Largo


Hotels in Cape Cod


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

Also for Key Largo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $60
    Cape Cod $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • 2 Location Snorkel Tour - Gear Included, 65 minutes per location: $79
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $185
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $68
  • Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour - All Snorkel Equipment Included!: $78
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

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

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Cape Cod $19


When comparing the travel costs between Key Largo and Cape Cod, we can see that Key Largo 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 Key Largo Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Key Largo or Cape Cod?

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 Key Largo or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Key Largo 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 Key Largo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod during summer. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

Both Cape Cod and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Key Largo is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Cape Cod. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Cape Cod can be very cold during winter. In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during winter. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Cape Cod in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Cape Cod. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Key Largo is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the spring, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Key Largo usually gets less rain in April than Cape Cod. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Key Largo

Key Largo Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)