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

Should you visit Key Largo or San Diego?

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 Diego 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. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Key Largo and San Diego: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego. Although Key Largo and San Diego are both popular with visitors, San Diego has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Diego is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Key Largo is known for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. San Diego is more touristy than Key Largo and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. 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 San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego 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 Diego?

San Diego 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 Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Diego is a coastal 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 Diego is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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 Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is great for its music scene. However, Key Largo is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Key Largo is not a live music destination.

Is Key Largo or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Key Largo is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

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

Key Largo is great for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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 Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Key Largo or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific 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 San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is great for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or San Diego?

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

San Diego has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or San Diego Better for Families?

Both Key Largo and San Diego 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 Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Key Largo or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

San Diego is a great coastal city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

San Diego is a good coastal city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Key Largo or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Key Largo is not popular with students.

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

San Diego 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 Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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 Diego a more walkable city?

San Diego is a coastal city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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 Diego Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Key Largo or San Diego?

In either Key Largo or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

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

One day in Key Largo or San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Key Largo. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the family-friendly destination of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the idyllic destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the peaceful island of Key Largo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the outdoorsy coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or San Diego?

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

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

When comparing the travel costs between Key Largo and San Diego, 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 San Diego Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or San Diego?

San Diego 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 Diego, 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 Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego 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 San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Key Largo is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 82°F (28°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. 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 San Diego during summer. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than San Diego. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both San Diego and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Key Largo is a little warmer than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

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

In the winter, Key Largo is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key Largo in January average around 67°F (19°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego 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 San Diego during winter. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key Largo usually receives more rain than San Diego. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as San Diego. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Key Largo is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 74°F (24°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. 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 San Diego. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Key Largo