A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Hood River for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Islamorada or Hood River?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Hood River, 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.

Hood River

Hood River is a scenic, charming, and agricultural town. Hood River is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Hood River travel costs.

Islamorada and Hood River: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Hood River are popular destinations, Islamorada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Islamorada is very popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing and hiking. Islamorada is famous for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also well known for Theater of the Sea. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is Islamorada different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Islamorada
Hood River

Hood River is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Islamorada is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Islamorada is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Hood River?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

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

Islamorada
Hood River

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Islamorada and Hood River.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Islamorada. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hood River. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Hood River

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find nice options in both Islamorada and Hood River.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.


Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hood River is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Islamorada makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada is a very popular place for the beach. However, Hood River is not a beach destination.

Islamorada is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Hood River is not a beach destination.


Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Hood River

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

Many visitors go to Hood River for the hiking trails. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Hood River?

Islamorada
Hood River

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Hood River both offer plenty of nice 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.

Hood River offers some nice shopping areas. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Islamorada or Hood River More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada and Hood River both are comparable with their very good scenery and 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.

The beauty of Hood River is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.


Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Families?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Islamorada is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Hood River is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Hood River

Islamorada is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Islamorada makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Hood River frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Is Islamorada or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Hood River

Hood River is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Hood River is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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 Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Islamorada
Hood River

Hood River 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 Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

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 Hood River a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Hood River

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

Hood River is generally not a very walkable town. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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 Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Hood River. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Hood River. 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 Hood River. 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 Hood River 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 Hood River.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Hood River? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Hood River 2-3

One day in Islamorada or Hood River?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the adventurous village of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With shopping and skiing around the agricultural town of Hood River, 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 Hood River?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Hood River, 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 Hood River?

Islamorada, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this village. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hood River, 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 Hood River?

Islamorada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this village makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Hood River 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, Hood River 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
    Hood River Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Hood River $174

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Hood River is $174. 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 Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Hood River? 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 Hood River


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 Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Hood River $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Hood River?

Prices for flights to both Hood River 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
    Hood River $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Hood River $18

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
  • 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 Hood River

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

  • Columbia Gorge Kayak Tour: $100
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $179

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Hood River $19


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Hood River?

Islamorada has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Hood River, 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 Hood River?

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 Hood River in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Hood River. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Islamorada is a little warmer than Hood River. Typically, the summer temperatures in Islamorada in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Hood River averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hood River this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hood River during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Hood River. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Hood River 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Hood River in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Hood River. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hood River because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 80°F (27°C), and Hood River fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun.

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Hood River. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 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) 
    Hood River 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Hood River in the Winter?

Both Hood River and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hood River in the winter. Islamorada is much warmer than Hood River in the winter. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hood River. In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Hood River. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Hood River 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Hood River in the Spring?

Both Hood River and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hood River for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Islamorada is much warmer than Hood River. Typically, the spring temperatures in Islamorada in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Hood River averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Hood River. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Hood River. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 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) 
    Hood River 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Hood River and Islamorada

Islamorada Hood River
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)