A Travel Price Comparison for Florida Naples vs. Sarasota for Beaches, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Naples or Sarasota?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Naples and Sarasota can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Naples

Naples is a peaceful, nature-filled, and relaxing beach town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a entertaining, underrated, and relaxing city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Naples and Sarasota: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Naples or Sarasota?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples. Although Naples and Sarasota are both popular with visitors, Naples has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Naples is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota is known for its museums. 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. Sarasota is popular for its sandy beaches and its fun activities.

How is Naples different from Sarasota?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Naples or Sarasota?

Naples
Sarasota

Sarasota is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Sarasota. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

Naples is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.


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

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Naples has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Nightlife?

Naples
Sarasota

Both Naples and Sarasota have good vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Naples. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Sarasota has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Resorts?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Naples to choose from. 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.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.


Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Sarasota is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Beaches?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is renowned for the beache. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Naples offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Hiking?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is a good destination for hiking. However, Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Naples offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Sarasota?

Naples
Sarasota

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Naples and Sarasota.

Naples has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Sarasota is a great destination for shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.

Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Families?

Naples
Sarasota

Sarasota is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Sarasota is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Naples is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Naples or Sarasota Better for Couples?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Naples is a great beach town if you're traveling as 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.

Sarasota is a good beach town for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.


Is Naples or Sarasota Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Sarasota is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are budget friendly places to stay, but there isn't a large backpacker or young crowd hanging around.

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

Naples
Sarasota

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Naples and Sarasota.

Public transit is mostly limited in Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

Public transit is generally limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

Is Naples or Sarasota a more walkable city?

Naples
Sarasota

Naples is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.


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

Should I spend more time in Sarasota or Naples?

How long in Naples or Sarasota?

In either Naples or Sarasota, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Naples has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Naples than Sarasota. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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


  • How many days in Naples or Sarasota? Ideal Length of Stay
    Naples 2-5 
    Sarasota 2-5

One day in Naples or Sarasota?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sarasota. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Naples or Sarasota?

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.

Sarasota is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Naples or Sarasota?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sarasota. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Naples or Sarasota?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the entertaining destination of Sarasota. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


Which place is cheaper, Sarasota or Naples?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Naples is $226, while the average daily cost in Sarasota is $249. 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 Naples and Sarasota in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Naples $119
    Sarasota $108
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Naples $238
    Sarasota $216
Compare Hotels in Naples and Sarasota

Looking for a hotel in Naples or Sarasota? 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 Naples


Hotels in Sarasota


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: Naples Hotel Prices and Sarasota Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Naples $62
    Sarasota -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Naples

Also for Naples, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Naples to Southwest Florida Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $103
  • Marco Island to Southwest Airport (RSW) - Departure Private Transfer: $94

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

Also for Sarasota, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sarasota–Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $98
  • Sarasota to Sarasota–Bradenton Intl. Airport (SRQ) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Round-Trip Transfer from Sarasota to the Mall at UTC: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Naples or Sarasota?

Prices for flights to both Sarasota and Naples 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
    Naples $70
    Sarasota $137

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Naples

For Naples, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Naples Florida: $224

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sarasota

For Sarasota, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sarasota Street Food Tour: $85
  • Taste of Downtown Food Tour: $105
  • Downtown Walking Food Tour in Sarasota: $110
  • Sarasota Kayak and Food Tour: $165

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Naples $26
    Sarasota $11

Tours and Activities in Naples

For Naples, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 10,000 Islands Boat Excursion - 3.5-Hour Dolphins & Shelling Tour: $170
  • 10,000 Islands Excursion Small-Group 3.5 hour Dolphin & Shelling Boat Tour : $160
  • 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour : $59
  • 2 Hour Dolphin, Birding and Shelling Tour: $100
  • 2 Hours Cycle Boat Sunset Tour in Marco Island : $59
  • 2Hour Everglades Kayak Safari Adventure Through Mangrove Tunnels: $105
  • 3 Hour Guided Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco Tour: $120
  • 3 Hour Hobie Kayak Adventure In Bonita Springs: $70
  • 3 Hour Natural Florida Everglades Guided Bicycle Eco Tour: $119
  • 4-Hour Guided Kayak Adventure in Bonita Springs: $110
  • 90 Minute Guided Moped Tour in Naples Florida: $69
  • 90 Minute Segway Tour - Explore Naples Florida - Family Fun: $62

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Lido Key Pedal Kayak Tour in Sarasota: $69
  • Parasailing Adventure above the Gulf of Mexico: $95
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $65
  • 2 Hour Guided Stand Up Paddle Board Tour along Upper Manatee River: $65
  • 2 Hour Jet ski Tour Fast And Fun Adventure Florida Thrill : $240
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cabaret Tour in Sarasota: $61
  • 2 Hours Guided Robinson Preserve Mangrove Tour: $55
  • 90 Minute Parasailing Adventure above Anna Maria Island: $70
  • 90 minute South Florida Jet Ski Adventure Fun Thrilling : $195
  • Adventure and Wildlife Watch Kayak Rentals in Sarasota: $45
  • Amish Experience: Bridges to Understanding: $68
  • Anna Maria Island Paddleboard Tours: $65

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Naples $38
    Sarasota -

Sample the Local Flavors in Naples

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Naples:

  • Epic Naples Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12


When comparing the travel costs between Naples and Sarasota, we can see that Sarasota 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 Naples Expensive? and Is Sarasota Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Naples or Sarasota?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Naples and Sarasota, 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.