A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Miami vs. Cape Cod for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Miami or Cape Cod?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Miami and Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Miami

Miami is a high energy, glamorous, and exciting beach city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and beaches.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a maritime, beautiful, and peaceful beach destination. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and food.

Miami and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Miami or Cape Cod?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Miami than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Miami is better known for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Cape Cod is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Miami is more touristy than Cape Cod and is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. Also, Miami is famous for South Beach. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Miami different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is the Food Better in Miami or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Miami, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.


Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Miami is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Music?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

Miami has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Cape Cod is not a live music destination.

Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Miami for its luxury resorts. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.


Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its beaches.

Miami offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Miami
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cape Cod. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Miami or Cape Cod?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for shopping.

Many people travel to Miami specifically to go shopping. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.


Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Miami
Cape Cod

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Miami or Cape Cod.

Miami is a very family-friendly place to visit. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cape Cod is very family-friendly. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Miami
Cape Cod

Both Miami and Cape Cod are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Miami frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

Cape Cod is a great beach city if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.


Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Students?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Cod is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Miami. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Cape Cod is not popular with students.

Is Miami or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Miami or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Miami
Cape Cod

Miami is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

Miami is a very walkable destination. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.


For even more information, also check out Is Miami Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Miami?

How long in Miami or Cape Cod?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Miami than Cape Cod 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 Miami.


  • How many days in Miami or Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Miami 7 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Miami or Cape Cod?

Miami is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It's also a great beach destination, too. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Miami or Cape Cod?

Miami 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Miami or Cape Cod?

Miami is a popular choice for travelers. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than five days exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cape Cod is a fun place to experience. Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Miami or Cape Cod?

Miami 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 beach city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod or Miami?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Miami is $206, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $183. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Miami and Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Miami $132
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Miami $264
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Miami and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Miami or Cape Cod? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Miami


Hotels in Cape Cod


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Miami Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Miami $38
    Cape Cod $50
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Miami are as follows:


  • Car Rental for a Day
    $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Miami

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Miami:

  • Transfer to West Palm Beach: $420
  • From Miami Beach: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry and Hotel Transfers: $289
  • From Miami Airport - Private Transfer to Hotels and Homes: $265
  • From Miami - Private Transfer from Miami Hotels to Airport: $265
  • Private Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel and Vice Versa: $255
  • Round Trip Motorcoach Transfer to Key West from Miami: $245
  • Transfer from Miami Hotel or Miami Port to Fort Lauderdale Airport or Hotel: $210
  • Guided Tour with Transfer from Cruise Port to Airport: $184
  • Shared Tour in Miami with Transfer: $170
  • Private transfer from Miami hotel to Port of Miami: $160
  • Transfer from Miami Airport to Miami Hotel or Miami Port: $160
  • Transfer from Miami Airport to Hotel or Port Miami.: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Miami or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod and Miami change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Miami $41
    Cape Cod $60
Typical Food Prices in Miami

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Miami:


  • Lunch with Drinks (for 2)
    $45
  • David's Cafe Lunch (for 1)
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Miami

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Miami.

  • The Ultimate Little Havana Food Tour: $64
  • Wynwood Street Art, Culture, Donuts & Walking Food Tour: $65
  • South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • A Taste of South Beach Food Tour: $70
  • Little Havana Walking Food Tour: $75
  • South Beach Miami Food & Fun Art Deco Food Tour : $79
  • Wynwood Walls Art District Food Tour: $80
  • Mango's Tropical Cafe Dinner & Show: $98
  • Mango's Dinner and Show Ticket: $98
  • Miami Dinner Party w/ Night Club Experience: $100
  • Guided Small Group Little Havana Food Tour: $124
  • Ukrainian cooking class in Miami: $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Miami $31
    Cape Cod $27

Tours and Activities in Miami

Here are a few actual costs in Miami for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Cultural Brunch Experience in Miami: $125
  • Miami's Most Authentic Walking Tour of Little Havana: $39
  • South Beach Walking Tour- A Journey through Food and History: $67
  • 1 Day Key West Tour from Miami Florida: $175
  • 1 Hour Jet Ski Experience in Miami Beach Florida: $95
  • 1 Hour Star Island Segway Tour: $74
  • 1-Hour Private Miami Photoshoot Experience: $65
  • 1HR Boat Tour Around Miami Celebrities Mansion: $65
  • 2 HR Miami Lights & Skyline Private Night Tour for up to 6 people: $299
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Miami Beach: $273
  • 2 hrs Miami Private Boat Tour with Cooler, Ice, Bluetooth Stereo: $75
  • 2-Day Key West and Miami South Beach Tour: $100

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Yoga and National Seashore with guided Hike Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Miami $22
    Cape Cod $19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Miami

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Miami are as follows:


  • Evening at a Bar
    $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Miami

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Miami:

  • Miami Bar Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group Brewery Golf Cart Tour of Wynwood with a Local Guide: $59
  • Wynwood Graffiti Brewery Golf Cart Tour: $63
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Party Bike Bar Crawl: $64
  • Wynwood Bar Crawl: $100


When comparing the travel costs between Miami and Cape Cod, we can see that Miami is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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



When is the best time to visit Miami or Cape Cod?

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 Miami or Cape Cod in the Summer?

Both Cape Cod and Miami during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Miami in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Miami is generally a little warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 83°F (28°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Miami. In the summer, Miami often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cape Cod. Miami gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually gets more rain in July than Cape Cod. Miami gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Miami 83°F (28°C) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Miami or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Miami and Cape Cod. Most visitors come to Miami for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Miami is much warmer than Cape Cod in the autumn. The daily temperature in Miami averages around 78°F (26°C) in October, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Miami, it's very sunny this time of the year. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during autumn. Miami gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Miami gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Miami usually receives more rain than Cape Cod. Miami gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Miami 78°F (26°C) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Miami or Cape Cod in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Miami as well as Cape Cod. The winter months attract visitors to Miami because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cape Cod in the winter. In the winter, Miami is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the winter temperatures in Miami in January average around 67°F (20°C), and Cape Cod averages at about 31°F (-0°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Miami this time of the year. In the winter, Miami often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Miami gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Miami usually gets less rain in January than Cape Cod. Miami gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Miami 67°F (20°C) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Miami or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Miami are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Miami this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Miami is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Miami average around 75°F (24°C), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in Cape Cod. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Miami. Miami usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during spring. Miami gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In April, Miami usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Miami gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Miami 75°F (24°C) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Miami

Miami Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (20°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 79°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 83°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)