A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Jaco vs. Islamorada for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Jaco or Islamorada?

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

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

Jaco

Jaco is a laid back, popular, and touristy town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Jaco travel costs.

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.

Jaco and Islamorada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Jaco or Islamorada?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Islamorada than Jaco, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Islamorada is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is more popular for its nightlife. Jaco is more touristy than Islamorada and is known for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Islamorada is well known for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe. Also, Islamorada is famous for Theater of the Sea.

How is Jaco different from Islamorada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jaco or Islamorada?

Islamorada is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its 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.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

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

Islamorada is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is renowned for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

Jaco is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

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.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Resorts?

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

Jaco is not a resort destination.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Jaco and Islamorada.

Jaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

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.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Beaches?

Islamorada is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Jaco. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Is the Shopping Better in Jaco or Islamorada?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Jaco and Islamorada.

Jaco has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Islamorada is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Is Jaco or Islamorada More Beautiful?

Islamorada is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco 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.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Families?

Islamorada is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Couples?

Islamorada is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Jaco or Islamorada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jaco is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

Jaco is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

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

Jaco 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 Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

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 Jaco or Islamorada a more walkable city?

Jaco is a great town for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

Jaco is very walkable. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

Islamorada is not a walkable town. 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 Jaco Worth Visiting? and Is Islamorada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Islamorada or Jaco?

How long in Jaco or Islamorada?

Both Jaco and Islamorada have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Islamorada than in Jaco. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Jaco, and 4-7 days is enough time in Islamorada.

Families should spend more time in Islamorada than Jaco. 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 Jaco. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Islamorada that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jaco 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 Jaco.

One day in Jaco or Islamorada?

With shopping and nightlife around the popular town of Jaco, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Islamorada. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jaco or Islamorada?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Jaco, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Islamorada is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Jaco or Islamorada?

Jaco, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the adventurous destination of Islamorada. This village offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Jaco or Islamorada?

Jaco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventurous village of Islamorada. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Jaco and Islamorada, we can see that Islamorada is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Jaco is in Central America and Islamorada is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Jaco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jaco 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 Jaco.

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

Which is Bigger, Jaco or Islamorada?

Islamorada has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Jaco and Islamorada, 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 Jaco or Islamorada?

Islamorada has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jaco experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Jaco or Islamorada in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jaco and Islamorada. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Islamorada this time of year.

In the summer, Jaco is around the same temperature as Islamorada. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jaco in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Islamorada averages at about 84°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Islamorada this time of the year. Jaco usually receives less sunshine than Islamorada during summer. Jaco gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while Islamorada receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jaco usually receives more rain than Islamorada. Jaco gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Islamorada receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Jaco or Islamorada in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jaco as well as Islamorada. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Islamorada for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Jaco is generally around the same temperature as Islamorada. Daily temperatures in Jaco average around 27°C (81°F), and Islamorada fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Islamorada. In the autumn, Jaco often gets less sunshine than Islamorada. Jaco gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Islamorada receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Islamorada. Jaco receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Jaco usually gets more rain in October than Islamorada. Jaco gets 254 mm (10 in) of rain, while Islamorada receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Jaco is the dry season. Also, June to October in Jaco is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Islamorada is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Jaco or Islamorada in the Winter?

Both Islamorada and Jaco are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Islamorada in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Jaco is a little warmer than Islamorada in the winter. The daily temperature in Jaco averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Islamorada fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Islamorada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jaco. Jaco usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Islamorada during winter. Jaco gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while Islamorada receives 252 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jaco usually receives less rain than Islamorada. Jaco gets 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Islamorada receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Jaco or Islamorada in the Spring?

Both Islamorada and Jaco during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Islamorada for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Jaco is a little warmer than Islamorada. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jaco in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Islamorada averages at about 77°F (25°C).

In Islamorada, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jaco. In the spring, Jaco often gets less sunshine than Islamorada. Jaco gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Islamorada receives 326 hours of full sun.

Jaco usually gets more rain in April than Islamorada. Jaco gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Islamorada receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Jaco. Also, the hurricane season in Jaco is June to October. Also, the hurricane season in Islamorada is June to November.

Typical Weather for Islamorada and Jaco