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

Should you visit Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Pocono Mountains, 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Islamorada travel costs.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. Pocono Mountains is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, skiing, and food. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Islamorada and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Popular for skiing
  • 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 Pocono Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations, Islamorada has more sights and attractions for tourists. Islamorada is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains 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. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Islamorada different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Islamorada is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Islamorada is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Spend time exploring the nice sights and museums in either Islamorada or Pocono Mountains.

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.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

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

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

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

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Pocono Mountains is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Islamorada is a village with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

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 Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.


Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

With a similar set of options, nice resorts can be found in both Islamorada and Pocono Mountains.

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, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Islamorada is a village with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Islamorada is notable for the beach. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.


Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Pocono Mountains 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.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Islamorada is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

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.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.


Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Islamorada is an extremely popular village to visit for families. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Islamorada is a great village for couples, as it 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.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Is Islamorada or Pocono Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a great region for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way 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 Pocono Mountains a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Pocono Mountains

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

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable region. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

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 Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pocono Mountains or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

Both Islamorada and Pocono Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Islamorada has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Islamorada than Pocono Mountains. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pocono Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Pocono Mountains. 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 Pocono Mountains. 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 Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Pocono Mountains 3-7

One day in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the tropical destination of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and skiing around the relaxing region of Pocono Mountains, 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 Pocono Mountains?

You'll find shopping and museums around the tropical village of Islamorada. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

With skiing and food around the destination of Pocono Mountains, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Pocono Mountains?

Islamorada is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Pocono Mountains, a popular region, 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 region. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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


Which place is cheaper, Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Pocono Mountains $213

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Pocono Mountains is $213. 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 Pocono Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Pocono Mountains $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Pocono Mountains $178
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Pocono Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Pocono Mountains? 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 Pocono Mountains


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
    Pocono Mountains $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Pocono Mountains $30

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 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
    Pocono Mountains $13


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Pocono Mountains?

Islamorada has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Pocono Mountains, 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 Pocono Mountains?

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 Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

Both Pocono Mountains and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Islamorada is a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Islamorada in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 75°F (24°C).

In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Pocono Mountains. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Islamorada usually gets less rain in July than Pocono Mountains. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Pocono Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Pocono Mountains. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 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 Pocono Mountains. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Pocono Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Pocono Mountains can be very cold during winter. Islamorada is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 28°F (-2°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 Pocono Mountains. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Pocono Mountains. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Pocono Mountains in the Spring?

Both Pocono Mountains and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Islamorada

Islamorada Pocono Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)