A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Key West vs. Tamarindo for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Tamarindo?

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

Should I visit Key West or Tamarindo? 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. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Key West 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 nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a chill, scenic, and laid back town. Tamarindo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Key West and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Tamarindo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key West than Tamarindo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key West is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Tamarindo is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Tamarindo and is known 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. Also, Key West is famous for Duval Street. Tamarindo is well known for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles.

How is Key West different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tamarindo is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Tamarindo offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tamarindo 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 Key West. 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.

Tamarindo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a combination of beach bars and restaurants in town that offer local cuisine and international options. Many places have a laid back vibe that fits with the town's atmosphere but you'll also find some more upscale options.

Is Key West or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Key West and Tamarindo.

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.

Tamarindo has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town has beach bars, dance clubs, and regular parties that attract tourists and locals alike. The evening has a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing or swimming.

Is Key West or Tamarindo Better for Resorts?

Key West is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

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

Key West is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Tamarindo are very good 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.

Tamarindo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are popular with surfers but the currents can be strong so swimmers should use caution. The golden sand and beautiful setting make this a fun and chill beach destination. There are also plenty of water sports to choose from.

Is Key West or Tamarindo Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a well-known place for its old town. However, Tamarindo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Key West to see the historical old town. 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.

Tamarindo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Tamarindo?

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

Tamarindo offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

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 Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Key West is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Tamarindo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Is Key West or Tamarindo Better for Families?

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

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 Tamarindo. The golden beaches offer a great escape for families. The surf can be a bit strong, but the kids will love seeing the sea turtles or going horseback riding. There are also beginning surfing lessons available.

Is Key West or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Tamarindo make for a very good 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.

Tamarindo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy romantic horseback rides along the beach, sunset cruises, and romantic meals. For the adventurous, there's surfing lessons and wildlife tours.

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

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

Tamarindo is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

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 Tamarindo Better for Students?

Key West is a well-known place for students. However, Tamarindo is not popular with students.

Key West is a great town to visit as a student. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Tamarindo is not popular with students.

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

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

Tamarindo has a few public transit options. There are three public bus lines through town.

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

Is Key West or Tamarindo a more walkable city?

Tamarindo is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Tamarindo is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Key West?

How long in Key West or Tamarindo?

In either Key West or Tamarindo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than Tamarindo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 3-5 days is enough time in Tamarindo.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Tamarindo. 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 Tamarindo 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 Tamarindo.

One day in Key West or Tamarindo?

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 town of Tamarindo offers nightlife 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 Tamarindo?

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

Tamarindo 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 Tamarindo?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quirky 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.

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

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.

Tamarindo is a great place to explore. 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 town 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 Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Tamarindo, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Tamarindo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Key West is in North America and Tamarindo is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Tamarindo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tamarindo 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 Tamarindo.

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 Tamarindo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Key West or Tamarindo?

Key West has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Tamarindo experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Tamarindo in the Summer?

Both Tamarindo and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Tamarindo because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Key West is around the same temperature as Tamarindo in the summer. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Tamarindo fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Tamarindo during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tamarindo. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Tamarindo. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Tamarindo in the Autumn?

Both Tamarindo and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Tamarindo year-round.

In the autumn, Key West is around the same temperature as Tamarindo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key West in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Tamarindo averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Tamarindo. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Tamarindo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets less rain in October than Tamarindo. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November. December to May is the dry season in Tamarindo. Also, the hurricane season in Tamarindo is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Tamarindo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Tamarindo. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Tamarindo attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Key West is generally cooler than Tamarindo. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 70°F (21°C), and Tamarindo fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tamarindo this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tamarindo during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives more rain than Tamarindo. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Tamarindo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Tamarindo. The spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Tamarindo throughout the year.

Key West is cooler than Tamarindo in the spring. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Tamarindo fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tamarindo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Tamarindo. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 255 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Tamarindo. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West. Also, December to May in Tamarindo is the dry season. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Tamarindo.

Typical Weather for Tamarindo and Key West