A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Ocean City for Families, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Key West or Ocean City?

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

Should I visit Key West or Ocean City? 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 active, lively, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Ocean City

Ocean City is a fun-filled, laid back, and active city. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Key West and Ocean City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Ocean City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Ocean City are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Ocean City is known for its museums. 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. It is also home to Duval Street. Ocean City is popular for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports.

How is Key West different from Ocean City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ocean City is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Ocean City offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time on the beach, but for the rainy days you can check out the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum or the Art League of Ocean City.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Key West and Ocean City.

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.

Ocean City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Themed restaurants are popular in the area. You'll also find all-you-can-eat seafood buffets and casual diners with pancakes and waffles. Pizza, burgers, and other fast food options are also abundant.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are high quality in both Key West and Ocean City.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Ocean City has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Happy hours are popular at the bars in the area. You'll also find live music and DJ led parties. Head to the boardwalk, which will overwhelm your senses. There are neon lights, colorful rides, and arcades filled with people and activities.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for Resorts?

Key West and Ocean City offer a relatively similar set of high quality 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 Ocean City. There are many oceanfront resorts with pools and rooms with ocean views. The hotels along the beach tend to be the most expensive, but if you find a place across from the Coastal Highway, it's very challenging to walk to the beach.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Ocean City are high quality 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.

Ocean City is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are ten miles of sandy beach that are lined with hotels and resorts. A festive boardwalk runs along the coastline and has many rides, arcades, restaurants, and more. The beach offers waves and warm water during the summer months.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Ocean City?

Both Key West and Ocean City are decent shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Key West has some nice offerings. 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.

Ocean City has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find surf stores and souvenir shops along the three mile boardwalk. There are also many vendors and shopping centers along the Coastal Highway. For something a little more interesting you can head to the Inlet Village.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for Families?

Ocean City 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, Ocean City is a very family-friendly destination. Beyond the family-friendly beach, there's also minigolf, dolphin tours, and themed-restaurants that are perfect for kids. Head to the Jolly Roger amusement park for a thrilling afternoon or spend some time visiting Ripley's Believe It or Not. The boardwalk is lined with activities for both kids and adults. There are also candy shops, ice cream parlors, and pizza joints where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Ocean City Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Ocean City make for a high quality 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.

Ocean City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Hotels line the beach, many with beautiful views and nice pools. You can take long romantic walks along the coastline or head to one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Is Key West or Ocean City Better for Students?

Key West is a well-known place for students. However, Ocean City 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.

Ocean City is not popular with students.

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

Ocean City is a moderate city 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 Ocean City. There are boardwalk trams as well as shuttle buses, but most people have their own vehicle, and its recommended you have a private car to get around.

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

Is Key West or Ocean City a more walkable city?

Key West is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Ocean City is not a good city for its walkability.

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

Ocean City is generally not a very walkable town. If you stay at an oceanfront hotel or on the ocean block, it's possible to walk to the beach. If you stay further back, you'll have to cross the Coastal Highway, which is eight lanes of busy traffic.

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

Should I spend more time in Ocean City or Key West?

How long in Key West or Ocean City?

Both Key West and Ocean City 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 Ocean City. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 3-7 days is enough time in Ocean City.

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

Couples should spend more time in Key West than Ocean City. 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 Ocean City 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 Ocean City?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the laid-back town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Ocean City offers food 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 Ocean City?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Ocean City 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 Ocean City?

Key West, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Ocean City 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 Ocean City has to offer. This city 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 Ocean City, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Ocean City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ocean City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ocean City 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 Ocean City.

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 Ocean City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Ocean City?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ocean City. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Ocean City, 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 Ocean City?

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 West or Ocean City in the Summer?

Both Ocean City and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ocean City this time of year.

In the summer, Key West is a little warmer than Ocean City. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Ocean City averages at about 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ocean City. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Ocean City. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Ocean City in the Autumn?

Both Ocean City and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ocean City for the shopping scene.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Ocean City. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Ocean City fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Ocean City. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Ocean City in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Ocean City. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ocean City in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ocean City can get quite cold in the winter. Key West is much warmer than Ocean City in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Ocean City fluctuates around 35°F (2°C).

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Ocean City. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.6 inches (93 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Ocean City in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Ocean City. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Ocean City for the beaches during these months.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Ocean City. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Ocean City averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Ocean City. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Ocean City receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Ocean City and Key West