A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Denali National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Islamorada or Denali National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Denali National Park, 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 relaxing, tropical, and adventurous village. The beauty of Islamorada is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Islamorada travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a epic, vast, and rugged park. Many visitors also come to Denali National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Islamorada and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Denali National Park are popular destinations, Islamorada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Islamorada is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Denali National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Islamorada is famous for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also well known for Theater of the Sea. Denali National Park is famous for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Islamorada different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali National Park 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 Denali National Park?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is very good for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Islamorada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


Is the Food Better in Islamorada or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is a great village for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Islamorada has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Islamorada has a few options to choose from. 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.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

With a similar set of options, nice resorts can be found in both Islamorada and Denali National Park.

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

With a selection of resorts, Denali National Park makes a nice vacation spot. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.


Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Denali National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Islamorada. 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.

Denali National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is a great village for the beach. However, Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Denali National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Islamorada. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Denali National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

The beauty of Islamorada is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Islamorada is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.


Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Islamorada has plenty to offer. 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.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Is Islamorada or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Denali National Park. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

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 Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Denali National Park 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 Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

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 Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Denali National Park

Neither Islamorada or Denali National Park are walkable places.

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

Denali National Park is not a walkable village. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Islamorada or Denali National Park. 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 Denali National Park.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Denali National Park. 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 Denali National Park. 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.


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

One day in Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Islamorada. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With around the rugged park of Denali National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Islamorada is a fun place to 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. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With around the destination of Denali National Park, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.


Five days in Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Islamorada for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful village of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

Denali National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. 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 Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Islamorada. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Islamorada, one week is sufficent for most.

Denali National Park 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, Denali National Park 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
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Denali National Park? 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 Denali National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Denali National Park $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park 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
    Denali National Park $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 2 Hour Private Eco-Tour: $950
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515
  • Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sandbar: $950
  • Private Snorkel & Sandbar Adventure: $599

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $209
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in the Alaska Range - Denali Area: $199
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Denali National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Islamorada and Denali National Park, we can see that Denali National Park is more expensive. And not only is Islamorada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Islamorada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Islamorada 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 Denali National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Denali National Park than you might in Islamorada.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Islamorada Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Islamorada or Denali National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Islamorada or Denali National Park in the Summer?

Both Denali National Park and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Denali National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Islamorada is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Islamorada in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

In July, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Denali National Park. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Denali National Park in the Autumn?

Both Denali National Park and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Denali National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Denali National Park in the autumn. In October, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 80°F (27°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Denali National Park. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Denali National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Denali National Park. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Denali National Park. Islamorada is much warmer than Denali National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

In January, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Denali National Park. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Denali National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Denali National Park. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Denali National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

Denali National Park can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Islamorada is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Islamorada in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 34°F (1°C).

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Denali National Park. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

Typical Weather for Denali National Park and Islamorada

Islamorada Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)