A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key Largo vs. Nags Head for Families, Nightlife, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Key Largo or Nags Head?

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 Nags Head 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 family-friendly, beautiful, and relaxed island. As it is a quaint destination, it has a nice vibe. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

Nags Head

It's also popular because of the nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Key Largo and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Nags Head?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key Largo than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key Largo is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere, while Nags Head is more popular for its food and nightlife. Key Largo is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove. Also, Key Largo is famous for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Nags Head is well known for

How is Key Largo different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Key Largo
Nags Head

Nags Head is a with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nags Head is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

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 Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Nags Head is great for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Nags Head for the nightlife scene. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

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 Nags Head Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Key Largo is great for its luxury resorts. However, Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Key Largo is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

Is Key Largo or Nags Head Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Key Largo is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Key Largo. 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.

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Key Largo or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Key Largo is a popular place for its beaches. However, Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Key Largo is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Nags Head Better for Families?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Key Largo is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Key Largo is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly island. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Key Largo or Nags Head Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Both Key Largo and Nags Head are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Key Largo is a good island for couples to visit. 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.

Nags Head is a nice destination for couples. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.


Is Key Largo or Nags Head Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Nags Head is a with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Nags Head is a good to visit for backpackers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Key Largo
Nags Head

Neither Key Largo or Nags Head offer decent public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Key Largo or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Nags Head

Nags Head is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Nags Head is generally not a very walkable . This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

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


Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Nags Head?

Both Key Largo and Nags Head have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nags Head 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 Nags Head.


  • How many days in Key Largo or Nags Head? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Nags Head 4-7

One day in Key Largo or Nags Head?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Key Largo. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the of Nags Head. 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 Nags Head?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed destination of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Nags Head. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Nags Head?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed island of Key Largo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the fun-filled of Nags Head. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer.


A week in Key Largo or Nags Head?

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nags Head is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Nags Head, 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.


Which place is cheaper, Nags Head or Key Largo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Key Largo Prices
    USA Prices
    Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key Largo $256
    Nags Head $179

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $256, while the average daily cost in Nags Head is $179. 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 Key Largo and Nags Head in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Nags Head $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Nags Head $160
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Nags Head

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or Nags Head? 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 Key Largo


Hotels in Nags Head


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: Key Largo Hotel Prices and Nags Head Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Nags Head $40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key Largo

Also for Key Largo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Key Largo Private Transfers (up to 14 passengers): $142

Is it cheaper to fly into Key Largo or Nags Head?

Prices for flights to both Nags Head and Key Largo 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
    Key Largo $104
    Nags Head $71

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Nags Head $14

Tours and Activities in Key Largo

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

  • 1.5 Hour Bay Side Key Largo Sunset Cruise on a Spacious Catamaran: $69
  • Cruisin' Tikis Key Largo - Sunset Cruise: $99
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Driving Tour (7 Mile Bridge): $17
  • Guided Tour Explore Key Largo on Jet Ski : $200
  • Half-Day Florida Keys Catamaran Snorkel Adventure: $79
  • Historic Carysfort Lighthouse Snorkeling Tour: $75
  • Jet Ski Eco Tour through Key Largo: $195
  • Key Largo Bay Sunset Tour: $66
  • Key Largo Coral Reef Glass Bottom Boat Adventure : $45
  • Key Largo Day Tour: $65
  • Key Largo Jetski Tour for 2 : $214
  • Key Largo Snorkel Tour, Two Locations - Equipment Included!: $70

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Nags Head $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


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

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 Nags Head Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Nags Head?

Key Largo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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 Key Largo or Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nags Head in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key Largo is around the same temperature as Nags Head. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Nags Head averages at about 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during summer. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Nags Head in the Autumn?

Both Nags Head and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit.

In October, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 78°F (26°C), and Nags Head fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key Largo. In the autumn, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Nags Head. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Nags Head. Most visitors come to Key Largo for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the cuisine.

The weather in Nags Head can be very cold. Key Largo is much warmer than Nags Head in the winter. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during winter. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nags Head receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Nags Head in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Nags Head. The spring months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches.

In the spring, Key Largo is much warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Nags Head averages at about 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nags Head. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In the spring, Key Largo often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun.

Key Largo usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nags Head. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C)

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Key Largo

Key Largo Nags Head
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)