A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Cherokee for Families, Couples, Food, and Attractions

Should you visit Islamorada or Cherokee?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Cherokee, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. Islamorada is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Islamorada travel costs.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a cultural, genuine, and fascinating town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Cherokee travel costs.

Islamorada and Cherokee: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Cherokee?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Cherokee are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Cherokee is known for its hiking. Islamorada is more touristy than Cherokee and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. Cherokee is popular for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Islamorada different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Cherokee?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Islamorada or Cherokee.

Islamorada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.


Is the Food Better in Islamorada or Cherokee? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Islamorada makes for a great culinary experience. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Islamorada. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Cherokee is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a handful of resorts to choose from. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Cherokee is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Cherokee is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is notable for its beaches. However, Cherokee is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Islamorada. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Cherokee is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Cherokee is a great town for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cherokee for the hiking trails. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Cherokee?

Islamorada
Cherokee

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Cherokee both offer plenty of good spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Cherokee offers some nice shopping areas. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Islamorada is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Striking blue water and white sand make this a truly tropical paradise. You can sip frozen drinks and relax in the sun as your troubles slip away.

Cherokee is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Families?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Islamorada is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cherokee is very family-friendly. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.


Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for romance. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

Islamorada has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Cherokee makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Cherokee is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cherokee. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

Is Islamorada or Cherokee Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Cherokee is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.


Is Islamorada or Cherokee a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Cherokee

Cherokee is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable town. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

Islamorada is not a walkable village. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Cherokee Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Islamorada due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cherokee.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cherokee than Islamorada 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 Cherokee.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Islamorada or Cherokee?

The beautiful village of Islamorada 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.

With museums and food around the fascinating town of Cherokee, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Cherokee?

Islamorada 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.

With food and shopping around the destination of Cherokee, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Islamorada or Cherokee?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cherokee, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Cherokee?

Islamorada 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 Islamorada has to offer. This village offers something for everyone.

Cherokee is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee or Islamorada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Islamorada Prices
    USA Prices
    Cherokee Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Cherokee $186

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Cherokee is $186. 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 Islamorada and Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Cherokee? 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 Islamorada


Hotels in Cherokee


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: Islamorada Hotel Prices and Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Cherokee -

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee and Islamorada 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
    Islamorada $81
    Cherokee $27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 1.5 Hour (20 miles) Waverunner Tour. See Mangrove Tunnels, 20 Islands & SandBar: $259
  • Private Snorkel & Sandbar Adventure: $599
  • Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sandbar: $950
  • 2 Hour Private Eco-Tour: $950
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Cherokee -


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Cherokee?

Islamorada has a larger population, and is about 11% larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Cherokee, 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 Islamorada or Cherokee?

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 Islamorada or Cherokee in the Summer?

Both Cherokee and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cherokee this time of year.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Cherokee in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Cherokee fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Cherokee, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 294 hours of full sun.

Cherokee gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Cherokee. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Cherokee 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Cherokee in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Cherokee. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cherokee for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Cherokee. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Cherokee averages at about 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cherokee this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Cherokee during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Cherokee. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Cherokee 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Cherokee in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Cherokee. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Cherokee in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cherokee can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Cherokee. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Cherokee fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Cherokee. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cherokee receives 134 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cherokee. Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Cherokee. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Cherokee 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Cherokee in the Spring?

Both Cherokee and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Cherokee in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Cherokee fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in Cherokee. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Cherokee during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Cherokee receives 263 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Cherokee. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Cherokee receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Cherokee 62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Cherokee and Islamorada

Islamorada Cherokee
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 40°F (5°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 54°F (12°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 81°F (27°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 80°F (27°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 63°F (17°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm)