A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Charleston for Food, Families, Couples, and Resorts

Should you visit Key Largo or Charleston?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Charleston can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a beautiful, relaxed, and peaceful island. It's a quaint destination. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Charleston travel costs.

Key Largo and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key Largo or Charleston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Charleston. Although Key Largo and Charleston are popular destinations, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park.

How is Key Largo different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key Largo or Charleston?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for its historical sights. However, Key Largo 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 Charleston. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Charleston have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Charleston has a few options to choose from. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for its music scene. However, Key Largo is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Key Largo is not a live music destination.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Key Largo is notable for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Key Largo is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Key Largo to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is great for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Key Largo does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Charleston offers plenty to see. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Key Largo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Charleston?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Charleston More Beautiful?

Charleston is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Families?

Key Largo is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Key Largo is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Charleston is a family-friendly island. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Charleston is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a coastal town with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Key Largo is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Key Largo is not popular with students.

Is Key Largo or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Charleston is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Key Largo or Charleston a more walkable city?

Charleston is great for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Charleston?

Both Key Largo and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Charleston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Charleston than Key Largo. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Key Largo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Charleston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Charleston than Key Largo 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 Charleston.

One day in Key Largo or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed island of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint coastal town of Charleston. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Key Largo or Charleston?

With scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Key Largo, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find live music and food around the historic destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Charleston?

Key Largo, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming coastal town of Charleston. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or Charleston?

Key Largo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Charleston, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Charleston, 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 Key Largo or Charleston?

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 Key Largo or Charleston in the Summer?

Both Charleston and Key Largo during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Charleston because of the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Key Largo is around the same temperature as Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Charleston, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the summer, Key Largo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

Charleston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Charleston. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

In the autumn, Key Largo is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Charleston. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Key Largo or Charleston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Charleston. The cuisine are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the winter, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Charleston. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during spring. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Charleston. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Key Largo