A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Key Largo vs. Key West for Families, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Key Largo or Key West?

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 Key West 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 beautiful, relaxed, and peaceful island. It's a quaint destination. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Key West

Key West is a lively, quaint, and laid-back town. With fun 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 beaches, nightlife, and food.

Key Largo and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key Largo or Key West?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key Largo 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, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Key Largo is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling. Key West is more touristy than Key Largo and 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. Key Largo is popular for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove.

How is Key Largo different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Key West 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 Key West? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Key West is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be 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.

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 Key West Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Key West for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Key Largo or Key West Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Key Largo and Key West have excellent options.

In Key Largo, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. 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.

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

Key Largo is notable for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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 Key Largo or Key West Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. 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.

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 Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is great for its historic old town charm. However, Key Largo does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Key Largo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Key West?

Key West is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Key West Better for Families?

Key Largo is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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.

Is Key Largo or Key West Better for Couples?

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

Key West is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

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 Key West Better for Students?

Key West is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Key Largo is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key Largo or Key West offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key Largo or Key West a more walkable city?

Key West is a town with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

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.

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 Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Key West?

Both Key Largo and Key West have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Key West has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Key West 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 Key West. 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 Key West than Key Largo. 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 Key West than Key Largo 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 Key West.

One day in Key Largo or Key West?

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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quaint town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Key West?

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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the quaint destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Key West?

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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid-back town of Key West. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or Key West?

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.

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key Largo and Key West, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Key Largo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Key Largo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Key Largo 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 Key Largo.

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 Key West Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Key West?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo 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 Key Largo or Key West?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Key Largo or Key West in the Summer?

Both Key West and Key Largo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Key West in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the summer, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key West. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 328 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in July than Key West. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Key West in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Key West. Also, most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Key Largo is around the same temperature as Key West in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Key West during autumn. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Key West. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key Largo or Key West in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Key West. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Key Largo is around the same temperature as Key West. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key Largo in January average around 67°F (19°C), and Key West averages at about 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the winter, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Key West. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 252 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets more rain in January than Key West. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Key West in the Spring?

Both Key West and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

In April, Key Largo is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 74°F (24°C), and Key West fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives less sunshine than Key West during spring. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Key West. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Key West and Key Largo