A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. San Antonio for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Key Largo or San Antonio?

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 San Antonio 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 peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a historic, cultural, and colorful city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Key Largo and San Antonio: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Antonio than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Antonio is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Key Largo is more touristy than San Antonio and 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. San Antonio is well known for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. Also, San Antonio is famous for The Alamo.

How is Key Largo different from San Antonio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is great for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into San Antonio. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Key Largo or San Antonio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Antonio is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

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 San Antonio Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities San Antonio has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

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 San Antonio Better for Music?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its music scene. However, Key Largo is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in San Antonio. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Key Largo is not a live music destination.


Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
San Antonio

Key Largo is a great destination for its resorts. However, San Antonio is not a resort destination.

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.

San Antonio is not a resort destination.

Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
San Antonio

Key Largo is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
San Antonio

Key Largo is a good destination for its beaches. However, San Antonio is not a beach destination.

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.

San Antonio is not a beach destination.


Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for its Old Town?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Key Largo does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio has an old town worth visiting. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Key Largo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

San Antonio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Christmas?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Key Largo does not offer Christmas activities.

San Antonio worth visiting during the Christmas season. It's fun to see the lights along the River Walk at Christmas.

Key Largo does not offer Christmas activities.


Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Families?

Key Largo
San Antonio

Both Key Largo and San Antonio are fantastic to visit with kids.

Key Largo is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Antonio is very family-friendly. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Couples?

Key Largo
San Antonio

Both Key Largo and San Antonio are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. 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.

San Antonio is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Key Largo or San Antonio Better for Students?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Key Largo is not popular with students.


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

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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 San Antonio a more walkable city?

Key Largo
San Antonio

San Antonio is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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 San Antonio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Antonio or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key Largo and San Antonio. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than in San Antonio. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-3 days is enough time in San Antonio.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.


  • How many days in Key Largo or San Antonio? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    San Antonio 2-3

One day in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the peaceful island of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of San Antonio. 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Key Largo. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find live music and food around the fun destination of San Antonio. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the peaceful island of Key Largo. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fun city of San Antonio. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Key Largo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

San Antonio is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. 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, San Antonio 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 San Antonio is $132. 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 San Antonio in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    San Antonio $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    San Antonio $138
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and San Antonio

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or San Antonio? 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 San Antonio


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 and San Antonio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    San Antonio $20

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in San Antonio

Some typical examples of transportation costs in San Antonio are as follows:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Antonio

Some specific examples of transportation prices in San Antonio:

  • Galveston: One-Way Transfer GLS Airport to City: $237
  • Private Transfer: San Antonio Airport to San Antonio by Sedan, SUV or Minibus : $97
  • Private Round Trip Transfer - San Antonio International Airport (SAT): $93
  • Private One-way San Antonio Airport Transfer To/From San Antonio: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or San Antonio?

Prices for flights to both San Antonio 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
    San Antonio $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Antonio

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in San Antonio.

  • The Haunted Dinner Tour: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    San Antonio $36

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • Florida Key West Self-Driving Tour (Overseas Highway, 7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Sunset Pontoon Boat Tour Around Key Largo: $36
  • Ultimate Florida Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle: $40
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Small Group Florida Keys Eco Tour by Boat: $60
  • Sunset Cruise on the Florida Bay: $60
  • Mangroves and Manatees - Guided Kayak Eco Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Boat Charter Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo: $68
  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $70

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Antonio

Here are a few typical costs in San Antonio for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Spa Treatments
    $200

Tours and Activities in San Antonio

Here are a few actual costs in San Antonio for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Private Historic Sightseeing Tour in San Antonio : $95
  • Best of San Antonio Small Group Tour with Boat + Tower + Alamo: $169
  • Cave Without a Name Admission Ticket with Guided Cavern Tour: $25
  • Downtown San Antonio Helicopter Tour: $197
  • Half-Day Afternoon City Tour of Historic San Antonio : $65
  • Historic Downtown & Riverwalk Walking Tour: $39
  • Historic Missions Bike Tour - 2 Mission Southern Route: $65
  • Historic Missions Bike Tour - 2 Missions Northern Route: $65
  • Historic Spanish Missions Bike Tour - 3 Missions Tour: $85
  • Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience: $24
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio Admission Ticket: $27
  • PRIVATE Missions and More - Half-day City Tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    San Antonio -

Sample the Local Flavors in San Antonio

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in San Antonio:

  • Epic San Antonio Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Death Warmed Over: San Antonio Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Guided Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Texas’ Oldest Haunted Pub Crawl Shared Walking Tour: $30
  • Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio: $155


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

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 San Antonio Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or San Antonio?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and San Antonio, 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 San Antonio?

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 San Antonio in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as San Antonio. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Antonio for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key Largo is around the same temperature as San Antonio. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July average around 82°F (28°C), and San Antonio averages at about 87°F (31°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the summer, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Antonio. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Antonio receives 307 hours of full sun.

Key Largo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Key Largo usually gets more rain in July than San Antonio. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    San Antonio 87°F (31°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or San Antonio in the Autumn?

Both San Antonio and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to San Antonio in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Key Largo is generally a little warmer than San Antonio. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 78°F (26°C), and San Antonio fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in San Antonio. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than San Antonio during autumn. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while San Antonio receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In October, Key Largo usually receives more rain than San Antonio. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    San Antonio 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or San Antonio in the Winter?

Both San Antonio and Key Largo during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Antonio for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Key Largo is much warmer than San Antonio in the winter. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and San Antonio fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the winter, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than San Antonio. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Antonio receives 155 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets more rain in January than San Antonio. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    San Antonio 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or San Antonio in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and San Antonio. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key Largo is around the same temperature as San Antonio. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April average around 74°F (24°C), and San Antonio averages at about 74°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio this time of the year. In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than San Antonio during spring. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while San Antonio receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key Largo usually receives more rain than San Antonio. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    San Antonio 74°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for San Antonio and Key Largo

Key Largo San Antonio
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 54°F (12°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 57°F (14°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 65°F (18°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 74°F (23°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 79°F (26°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 84°F (29°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 87°F (31°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 87°F (31°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 82°F (28°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 64°F (18°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)