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

Should you visit Liberia or Key West?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Liberia and Key West. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Liberia

Liberia is a colonial, fascinating, and accessible city. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Liberia travel costs.

Key West

Key West is a lively, quaint, and laid-back town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Liberia and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Liberia or Key West?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Liberia and Key West are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Liberia attracts visitors for its hiking. Key West is more touristy than Liberia 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. It is also well known for Duval Street. Liberia is famous for its "cowboy" culture as well as its proximity to some of Costa Rica's best national parks, beaches, and rainforests.

How is Liberia different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key West is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Liberia is a mediocre city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Key West makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Liberia. The city has a number of traditional restaurants where you can find the ubiquitous Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and casado.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Key West is notable for nightlife. However, Liberia is a mediocre city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Liberia. If you're in town for the night, you should have no problem finding a bar to hang out at.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for Resorts?

Key West is notable for its resorts. However, Liberia is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Key West to choose from. 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.

Liberia is not a resort destination.

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

Key West is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Liberia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Key West. 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.

Liberia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for Beaches?

Key West is notable for its beaches. However, Liberia is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Key West for it's beautiful 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.

Liberia is not a beach destination.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is notable for its historic old town. However, Liberia 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.

Liberia does not have a historic old town.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for Hiking?

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

People visit Liberia specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Head to the nearby Rincon de la Vieja National Park for some of the country's best hiking. You'll see stunning waterfalls and hopefully catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Liberia or Key West?

Key West is a moderate town for shopping. However, Liberia 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.

Liberia is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Liberia or Key West More Beautiful?

Key West is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Liberia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Liberia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for Families?

Key West is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Liberia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Key West is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Liberia is a family-friendly city. This city is often used as a base for exploring the nearby Rincon De La Vieja National Park. Kids love the hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife that you see in the area.

Is Liberia or Key West Better for Couples?

Key West is notable for romance. Also, Liberia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Liberia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking through rainforests, seeing splendid waterfalls, and checking out the local wildlife will enjoy a visit to Rincon De La Vieja National Park near town.

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

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

Liberia is a great city to visit for backpackers. Like much of Costa Rica, this city is an easy backpacker destination with affordable accommodation and unique places to explore.

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 Liberia or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is notable for students. Also, Liberia is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Plenty of students visit Liberia. As the capital of the Guanacaste province, many students use this city as a base to explore the nearby parks. You'll find study abroad groups as well as researchers and Phd students in the area.

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

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

Public transit in Liberia can get you to some places easily. There is a comprehensive bus system that travels throughout the city and is used by many people.

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

Is Liberia or Key West a more walkable city?

Liberia 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.

Liberia is a very walkable city.

Key West is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Liberia Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Liberia?

How long in Liberia or Key West?

Both Liberia and Key West have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Liberia. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Liberia, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

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

One day in Liberia or Key West?

The city of Liberia offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Liberia or Key West?

Liberia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Liberia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Key West, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Liberia or Key West?

Liberia is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Liberia or Key West?

Liberia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Liberia Expensive? and Is Key West Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Liberia or Key West?

Liberia has a larger population, and is about 84% larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Liberia and Key West, 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 Liberia or Key West?

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

Should I visit Liberia or Key West in the Summer?

Both Key West and Liberia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Liberia throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Liberia is around the same temperature as Key West. Typically, the summer temperatures in Liberia in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Key West averages at about 84°F (29°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. Liberia usually receives less sunshine than Key West during summer. Liberia gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Key West receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Liberia. In July, Liberia usually receives more rain than Key West. Liberia gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Key West receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Liberia or Key West in the Autumn?

Both Key West and Liberia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Liberia because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Liberia is generally around the same temperature as Key West. Daily temperatures in Liberia average around 27°C (81°F), and Key West fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Liberia often gets less sunshine than Key West. Liberia gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key West receives 258 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Liberia or Key West in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Liberia and Key West. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Liberia year-round. Also, most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Liberia is a little warmer than Key West in the winter. The daily temperature in Liberia averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Key West fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

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

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

Should I visit Liberia or Key West in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liberia as well as Key West. Liberia attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Liberia is a little warmer than Key West. Typically, the spring temperatures in Liberia in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Key West averages at about 77°F (25°C).

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

Liberia usually gets more rain in April than Key West. Liberia gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Key West receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Liberia is the dry season. April to December in Liberia is the rainy season. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Key West and Liberia