A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Islamorada vs. Vernon for Families, Couples, Food, and Attractions

Should you visit Islamorada or Vernon?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Islamorada or Vernon, 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.

Vernon

Vernon is a peaceful, relaxing, and quiet town. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Vernon travel costs.

Islamorada and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Islamorada or Vernon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Vernon, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Vernon is more popular for its hiking. Islamorada is more touristy than Vernon and is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea. Vernon is well known for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Islamorada different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Vernon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

Islamorada is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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 Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

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 Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Vernon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Islamorada has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Vernon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Beaches?

Islamorada is a well-known place for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Vernon is a great town for hiking. However, Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Vernon for the hiking trails. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Islamorada is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Islamorada or Vernon?

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

Vernon offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is Islamorada or Vernon More Beautiful?

Islamorada is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Islamorada attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Families?

Islamorada is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Islamorada is an amazing family-friendly village to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly village. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Islamorada or Vernon Better for Couples?

Islamorada is terrific for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Islamorada has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.

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

Vernon 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 Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

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 Vernon a more walkable city?

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable town. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.

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 Vernon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Islamorada?

How long in Islamorada or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Islamorada and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Vernon. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Islamorada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

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

One day in Islamorada or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Islamorada. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the relaxing town of Vernon, 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vernon, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Islamorada or Vernon?

Islamorada is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food and shopping around the destination of Vernon, 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 town.

Five days in Islamorada or Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon, a popular town, 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 Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical destination of Islamorada. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Vernon 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Islamorada and Vernon, we can see that Islamorada is more expensive. And not only is Vernon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Vernon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Vernon 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 Vernon.

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

Which is Bigger, Islamorada or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Islamorada and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Islamorada during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Islamorada because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In July, Islamorada is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 84°F (29°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in July than Vernon. Islamorada gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Vernon in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Islamorada and Vernon. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Vernon for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Islamorada is much warmer than Vernon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Islamorada averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Islamorada gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Vernon. Islamorada gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Should I visit Islamorada or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Islamorada as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to Islamorada for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Vernon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vernon can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Islamorada is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Islamorada in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Vernon averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Islamorada usually gets more rain in January than Vernon. Islamorada gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Islamorada or Vernon in the Spring?

Both Vernon and Islamorada are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Islamorada in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Islamorada is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Islamorada average around 77°F (25°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Islamorada usually receives more rain than Vernon. Islamorada gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Islamorada.

Typical Weather for Vernon and Islamorada