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

Should you visit Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Portland, Maine, 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Islamorada travel costs.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. Portland, Maine is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Portland, Maine travel costs.

Islamorada and Portland, Maine: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Portland, Maine, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its hiking. Islamorada is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Islamorada different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Islamorada. 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, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Islamorada is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

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

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, Maine. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada is a popular place for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Islamorada has a few great resort options. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.


Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Both Islamorada and Portland, Maine have very good beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Islamorada. 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.

The beaches at Portland, Maine attract visitors from all over. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine has hiking trails worth exploring. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

If you're looking to go shopping, Islamorada and Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine offers some nice shopping areas. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada and Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Set against the water's edge, the town offers many beautiful scenes and picturesque settings.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.


Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Islamorada is an amazing village to visit for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

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

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Neither Islamorada or Portland, Maine offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Islamorada or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is adequate for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable coastal town. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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, Maine Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

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

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


  • How many days in Islamorada or Portland, Maine? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Portland, Maine 2-3

One day in Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

The adventurous destination of Islamorada offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and nightlife around the picturesque coastal town of Portland, Maine, 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.

A weekend in Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

The village of Islamorada offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Portland, Maine, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This village offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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, Maine?

The relaxing village of Islamorada offers museums and nightlife. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Portland, Maine 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, Portland, Maine 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
    Portland, Maine Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Portland, Maine $227

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Portland, Maine is $227. 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 Portland, Maine in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Portland, Maine $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Portland, Maine $230
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Portland, Maine

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Portland, Maine? 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 Portland, Maine


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 Portland, Maine Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Islamorada $28
    Portland, Maine $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland, Maine

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Portland, Maine:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Port to Portland Jetport (PWM): $136
  • Private Transfer from Portland city to Portland Cruise Port: $75
  • Private Transfer from Portland Cruise Port to Portland city: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

Prices for flights to both Portland, Maine 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
    Portland, Maine $84

Typical Food Prices in Portland, Maine

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Portland, Maine:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $17
  • Dinner for 2
    $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland, Maine

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Portland, Maine.

  • Portland: Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Portland, Maine $39

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

Tours and Activities in Portland, Maine

Here are a few actual costs in Portland, Maine for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 2 Hour Scenic Powerboat Cruise Experience Portland's Waterfront: $143
  • 2-Hour Portland Old Port Ghost Walking Tour: $29
  • A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland: $49
  • Afternoon Lighthouse Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $62
  • Afternoon Windjammer Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine: $67
  • Around The Peninsula Bike Tour: $85
  • Audio Guided Walking Tour from Old Port of Portland, Maine: $7.75
  • Discover Portland City and Lighthouse Tour: $56
  • Guided RIB Boat Adventure of Casco Bay: $75
  • Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise: $56
  • Historical Walking Tour of Portland’s Old Port District: $7.99
  • Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland with 4 Lighthouses: $99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Portland, Maine $24

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland, Maine

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Portland, Maine:

  • Portland Old Port Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $99
  • Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99


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


Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Portland, Maine?

Portland, Maine has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Portland, Maine, 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, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. In the summer, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Islamorada gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets more rain in July than Portland, Maine. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Portland, Maine 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Portland, Maine because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Islamorada is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during autumn. Islamorada gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Islamorada. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Portland, Maine 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

Both Portland, Maine and Islamorada during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland, Maine in the winter. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland, Maine averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. In the winter, Islamorada often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Islamorada gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun.

Islamorada usually gets less rain in January than Portland, Maine. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Portland, Maine 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Portland, Maine. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland, Maine this time of the year. In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. Islamorada usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during spring. Islamorada gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Portland, Maine 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Islamorada

Islamorada Portland, Maine
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)