A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Islamorada vs. Kauai for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Islamorada or Kauai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Kauai, 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 tropical, adventurous, and relaxing village. With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Islamorada travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. Many visitors also come to Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kauai travel costs.

Islamorada and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Islamorada, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kauai is more touristy than Islamorada and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

How is Islamorada different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kauai 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 Kauai?

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Islamorada or Kauai.

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.

Kauai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Islamorada and Kauai.

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 Kauai. The food in Kauai combines the island's diverse cultures into a unique mix of flavors. There's fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and, of course, spam. You'll find common dishes like poke bowls and coconut shrimp, as well as more local dishes such as poi and lomi lomi.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Islamorada and Kauai.

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 Kauai. The island has more of a relaxed vibe than a party vibe, but there are plenty of places to listen to live music. There are also local dive bars as well as wine bars and upscale lounges where you can enjoy a drink. Many often have a dance floor as well.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

Kauai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. You'll find major resorts of all forms and sizes. Most of the major hotel chains have resorts on the island, including the Marriott, the Sheraton, and Hyatt.

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.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a great island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Kauai to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There aren't as many snorkeling and diving options as there are on some of the other Hawaiian islands, but you'll still find plenty of places to enjoy the underwater world. Popular snorkeling spots around the island include Ke'e Beach, Haena Beach Park, and Anini Beach.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beach.

The beaches in Kauai are among the best in the world. The island is filled with scenic beaches and idyllic coastline. The water conditions can be highly variable, so you should check with a local before entering the water. But the island has about 50 miles of sandy coastline that will take your breath away. You'll also likely see Hawaiian monk seals or sea turtles on the beach.

The beaches at Islamorada attract visitors from all over. 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.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kauai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Kauai is a beautiful island with world famous hikes through the stunning mountains. The hiking trails take you through lush rainforests and along scenic coastlines. The mountains climb high and the trails range from easy to challenging. Popular hikes include the Awawawapuhi Nualolo Trail, the Cliff Trail to Waipoo Falls, and the Kalalau Trail.IL

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Kauai?

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Kauai both offer plenty of notable 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.

Kauai offers some nice shopping areas. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Islamorada or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai 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 Kauai because of it's amazing beauty. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

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 Kauai Better for Families?

Islamorada is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Islamorada is very family-friendly. 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.

Kauai is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are kid-friendly hikes, beautiful bike rides, and many family-friendly beaches. Do keep in mind that many beaches have strong currents and large waves, so they're not the most kid-friendly. Good options include Poipu Beach and Lydgate Beach Park.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Couples?

Islamorada and Kauai are both world-class to visit as a couple.

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.

Kauai is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "The Garden Isle" is a world class honeymoon destination with stunning beaches and iconic hikes. There are romantic resorts and many adventure activities that couples can enjoy such as whale watching and scuba diving.

Is Islamorada or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai 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 Kauai. There are a couple of hostels on the island, but you'll likely need a car to get around, which can make this an expensive destination.

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

Kauai 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 Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.

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 Kauai a more walkable city?

Neither Islamorada or Kauai 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.

Kauai is not a walkable village. While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Kauai?

Islamorada and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Islamorada because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kauai 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 Kauai.

One day in Islamorada or Kauai?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this tropical destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic island of Kauai, 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 Kauai?

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

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Kauai, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Islamorada or Kauai?

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. In Islamorada, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Kauai, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Kauai?

In Islamorada, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kauai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. 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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Islamorada and Kauai, we can see that Kauai 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 Kauai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kauai 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 Kauai Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Islamorada or Kauai?

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 Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Kauai. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Islamorada or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Islamorada is around the same temperature as Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the autumn, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Kauai. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Should I visit Islamorada or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Kauai. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Islamorada is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Kauai. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Islamorada or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Kauai. The spring months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In April, Islamorada is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the spring, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Kauai. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Islamorada