A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Key West vs. Naples for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Key West or Naples?

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

Should I visit Key West or Naples? 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, it 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.

Naples

Naples is a peaceful, nature-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Key West and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Naples?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples. Although Key West and Naples are both popular with visitors, Naples has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Naples is more popular for its museums, food, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Key West is known for its nightlife, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is more touristy than Naples 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. Naples is popular for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts. It is also home to Naples Pier and the miles of sandy beach.

How is Key West different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Naples is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Naples offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Naples 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 Naples. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Naples has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Is Key West or Naples Better for Resorts?

Key West and Naples offer a relatively similar set of excellent 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 Naples. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

Is Key West or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

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 Naples. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Is Key West or Naples Better for Beaches?

Naples is renowned for the beache. 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 Naples. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

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 Naples Better for its Old Town?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Naples does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Naples does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Naples Better for Hiking?

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

Naples is a good destination for hiking. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Naples?

Naples is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Naples offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

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 Naples Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Naples.

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 Naples. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

Is Key West or Naples Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Naples make for a excellent 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.

Naples makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

Is Key West or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Naples. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

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 Naples Better for Students?

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Naples is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Naples is not popular with students.

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

Naples is a moderate beach town 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 Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

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

Is Key West or Naples a more walkable city?

Key West and Naples 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.

Naples is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Key West?

How long in Key West or Naples?

In either Key West or Naples, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than Naples because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-5 days is enough time in Naples.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Naples 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 Naples.

One day in Key West or Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beach town of Naples offers museums and nightlife. 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 Naples?

Key West is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Naples is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this beach town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Naples, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Naples is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Naples, 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 Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the lively destination of Key West. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Naples is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

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

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 Naples Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Naples?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Naples, 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.