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

Should you visit Key West or Cape Cod?

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

Should I visit Key West or Cape Cod? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

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.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a laid-back, wealthy, and maritime beach destination. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Key West and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Cape Cod are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and historical sights, while Cape Cod is known for its food, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Cape Cod 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. Cape Cod is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Key West 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 West. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Cape Cod is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cape Cod. 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 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.

Is Key West or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod 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.

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 West or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Key West 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 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.

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 West or Cape Cod Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Cape Cod are superb choices.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Is Key West or Cape Cod Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Key West. 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.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod is a good destination for hiking. 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 West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Cape Cod is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

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 Key West or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Cape Cod.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. 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 family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. 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 West or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Cape Cod make for a superb place to visit.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Cape Cod makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Key West or Cape Cod Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

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

Cape Cod is a moderate beach destination 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 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 quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Key West and Cape Cod both are good when exploring on foot.

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

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

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

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

How long in Key West or Cape Cod?

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

Families should spend more time in Key West than Cape Cod. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Cape Cod 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 West or Cape Cod?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Cape Cod is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A weekend in Key West or Cape Cod?

Key West 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Five days in Key West or Cape Cod?

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

A week in Key West or Cape Cod?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cape Cod has to offer. This beach destination offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

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

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 West or Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Cape Cod. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is a little warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 68°F (20°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 West this time of the year. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in July than Cape Cod. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Cape Cod and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

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

Both Cape Cod and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cape Cod. Key West is much warmer than Cape Cod in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Key West usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 45°F (7°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Key West