A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Nags Head for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Key West or Nags Head?

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

Should I visit Key West or Nags Head? 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 eclectic, bustling, and active town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Nags Head

And you can't forget about the food.

Key West and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Nags Head?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Nags Head are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is more touristy than Nags Head 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 well known for Duval Street. Nags Head is famous for

How is Key West different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Key West and Nags Head.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Key West. 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.

Nags Head is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for nightlife. However, Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Nags Head is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Key West is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Key West is great for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Nags Head does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Nags Head?

Key West is adequate for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Key West is a good destination for 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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Nags Head.

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 Nags Head. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Key West is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Key West or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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 Nags Head Better for Students?

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

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

Nags Head is not popular with students.

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

Key West is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head does not have public transit.

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

Nags Head does not have public transit.

Is Key West or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Key West is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

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

Nags Head is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Key West?

How long in Key West or Nags Head?

Both Key West and Nags Head 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 Nags Head. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Nags Head. 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.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Nags Head 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 Nags Head?

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.

The of Nags Head offers food. 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 Nags Head?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the eclectic 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.

Nags Head is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Nags Head?

You'll find nightlife and food around the active 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.

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

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.

Nags Head is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nags Head has to offer. This 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 Nags Head, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Nags Head much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Nags Head would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Nags Head 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 Nags Head.

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 Nags Head Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Nags Head?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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 Nags Head in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Nags Head. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. Key West usually gets less rain in July than Nags Head. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Nags Head in the Autumn?

Both Nags Head and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year.

Key West is much warmer than Nags Head in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Nags Head fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Nags Head in the Winter?

Both Nags Head and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Nags Head in the winter for the cuisine.

Nags Head can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Nags Head averages at about 41°F (5°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Key West usually gets less rain in January than Nags Head. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Nags Head in the Spring?

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

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Key West