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

Should you visit Islamorada or Portland?

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

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

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. Islamorada is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Islamorada travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Islamorada and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Islamorada. Although Islamorada and Portland are both popular with visitors, Islamorada has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Islamorada is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Portland is known for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. It is also home to Theater of the Sea. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Islamorada different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada is a village with good options for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Islamorada is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Islamorada is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Portland active and fun. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Islamorada is not a live music destination.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a village with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

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

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a village with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Beaches?

Islamorada is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great city for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Portland?

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

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

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Islamorada or Portland More Beautiful?

Islamorada is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Families?

Islamorada is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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 kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Couples?

Islamorada is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Islamorada or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Portland is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Islamorada is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Islamorada is not popular with students.

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

Portland is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada is not known for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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 Portland a more walkable city?

Portland is a great city for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland 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 Portland.

One day in Islamorada or Portland?

The beautiful village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and nightlife around the nature-filled city of Portland, 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 Portland?

Islamorada is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, 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 city.

Five days in Islamorada or Portland?

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

Portland, a popular city, 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 Portland?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Islamorada has to offer. This village offers something for everyone.

Portland 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Portland. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Islamorada is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland 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 Portland during summer. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Islamorada or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Islamorada is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Islamorada in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Portland averages at about 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 Portland. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Islamorada receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Should I visit Islamorada or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. In January, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland 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 Portland during winter. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit Islamorada or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Islamorada during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Islamorada is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

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

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Typical Weather for Portland and Islamorada