A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Los Angeles for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Los Angeles?

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

Should I visit Key West or Los Angeles? 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 quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Key West travel costs.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a dynamic, glamourous, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Los Angeles travel costs.

Key West and Los Angeles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Los Angeles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Los Angeles. Although Key West and Los Angeles are both popular with visitors, Los Angeles has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Los Angeles is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Key West is known for its historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West 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. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood.

How is Key West different from Los Angeles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Los Angeles are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is notable for its theatre productions. However, Key West is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Los Angeles. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

Key West is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Los Angeles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Los Angeles is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but 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 Los Angeles Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its live music scene. However, Key West is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Los Angeles Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

Key West is not a live music destination.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Resorts?

Key West and Los Angeles offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Los Angeles. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's good scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Key West and Los Angeles.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles is renowned for the beach. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Los Angeles. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

People visit Los Angeles specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Los Angeles make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

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 Los Angeles More Beautiful?

Key West is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Los Angeles is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Families?

Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles is a very family-friendly destination. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

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 West or Los Angeles Better for Couples?

Los Angeles is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Los Angeles makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Los Angeles is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Los Angeles Better for Students?

Los Angeles is renowned for students. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Los Angeles. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

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

Los Angeles is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Los Angeles has a few public transit options. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Los Angeles a more walkable city?

Key West and Los Angeles 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.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable town. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

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

Should I spend more time in Los Angeles or Key West?

How long in Key West or Los Angeles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than Key West 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 Los Angeles.

One day in Key West or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active town of Key West. 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.

Los Angeles is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quirky destination of Key West. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Los Angeles 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.

Five days in Key West or Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the eclectic town of Key West. 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.

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. 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 town.

Los Angeles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Los Angeles has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

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

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

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 Los Angeles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Los Angeles?

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 150 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Los Angeles, 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 West or Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles in the Summer?

Both Los Angeles and Key West during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is a little warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Key West usually gets more rain in July than Los Angeles. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0 inches (0 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Los Angeles in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Los Angeles. The autumn months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year.

In October, Key West is generally a little warmer than Los Angeles. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Los Angeles fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Los Angeles. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Los Angeles in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Los Angeles. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Key West is much warmer than Los Angeles in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Los Angeles fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Los Angeles. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Los Angeles in the Spring?

Both Los Angeles and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Los Angeles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Los Angeles averages at about 61°F (16°C).

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Los Angeles. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Los Angeles receives 1 inches (25 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Los Angeles and Key West