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

Should you visit Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park, 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.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a scenic, breathtaking, and serene national park. Shenandoah National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing and hiking. See Shenandoah National Park travel costs.

Islamorada and Shenandoah National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Shenandoah National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Shenandoah National Park is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Shenandoah National Park is well known for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails.

How is Islamorada different from Shenandoah National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Skiing?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a nice place to visit for skiing. However, Islamorada is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

Islamorada is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is a village with good options for its historical sights. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Shenandoah National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

Is the Food Better in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Islamorada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Shenandoah National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is a village with good options for its evening party scene. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.


Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Resorts?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is a village with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is a village with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Beaches?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is great for the beach. However, Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Hiking?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Shenandoah National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is a village with good options for its shopping areas. However, Shenandoah National Park is not a good destination for shopping.

Islamorada has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Shenandoah National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park More Beautiful?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada and Shenandoah National Park both are comparable with their high quality 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 Shenandoah National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Skyline drive passes by breathtaking views and wonderful lookout points. There are also miles of trails that let you explore the natural beauty of the area.


Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Families?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Couples?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Islamorada is renowned for couples. Also, Shenandoah National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Shenandoah National Park. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Neither Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

Is Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park a more walkable city?

Islamorada
Shenandoah National Park

Neither Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park is not a walkable village. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Islamorada Worth Visiting? and Is Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Shenandoah National Park or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

In either Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than Shenandoah National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 3-5 days is enough time in Shenandoah National Park.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Shenandoah National Park. 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 Shenandoah National Park. 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.


  • How many days in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Islamorada 4-7 
    Shenandoah National Park 3-5

One day in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

With nightlife and food around the adventurous village of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With skiing around the breathtaking national park of Shenandoah National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Shenandoah National Park?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical destination of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With skiing around the destination of Shenandoah National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the adventurous village of Islamorada, there's plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Shenandoah National Park, a popular national park, 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 national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Shenandoah National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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, Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Islamorada $179
    Shenandoah National Park $145

The average daily cost (per person) in Islamorada is $179, while the average daily cost in Shenandoah National Park is $145. 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 Shenandoah National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Islamorada $79
    Shenandoah National Park $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Islamorada $158
    Shenandoah National Park $106
Compare Hotels in Islamorada and Shenandoah National Park

Looking for a hotel in Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park? 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 Shenandoah National Park


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
    Shenandoah National Park $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

Prices for flights to both Shenandoah National Park 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
    Shenandoah National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Islamorada $19
    Shenandoah National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Islamorada

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

  • 2 Hour Private Eco-Tour: $950
  • From Miami: Key Largo & Islamorada Private Open-Top Bus Tour: $1,515
  • Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Sandbar: $950
  • Private Snorkel & Sandbar Adventure: $599

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Islamorada $15
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Islamorada and Shenandoah National Park, we can see that Islamorada is more expensive. And not only is Shenandoah National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Shenandoah National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Shenandoah National Park 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 Islamorada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Islamorada than you might in Shenandoah National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Islamorada Expensive? and Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park?

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 Shenandoah National Park in the Summer?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Shenandoah National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

In July, Islamorada usually receives around the same amount of rain as Shenandoah National Park. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Islamorada 84°F (29°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park in the Autumn?

Both Shenandoah National Park and Islamorada during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Islamorada is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. Islamorada usually gets more rain in October than Shenandoah National Park. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Islamorada 80°F (27°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Shenandoah National Park. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Shenandoah National Park for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Shenandoah National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Shenandoah National Park averages at about 32°F (-0°C).

In January, Islamorada usually receives less rain than Shenandoah National Park. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Islamorada 70°F (21°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Islamorada or Shenandoah National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Shenandoah National Park. Most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Shenandoah National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Shenandoah National Park. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Shenandoah National Park fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Islamorada usually gets less rain in April than Shenandoah National Park. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Shenandoah National Park receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Islamorada 77°F (25°C) 
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Shenandoah National Park and Islamorada

Islamorada Shenandoah National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)