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

Should you visit Key Largo or Sonoma?

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 Sonoma 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. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

Sonoma

Sonoma is a scenic, serene, and relaxing county. Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Sonoma travel costs.

Key Largo and Sonoma: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key Largo or Sonoma?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sonoma. Although Key Largo and Sonoma are popular destinations, Sonoma has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sonoma is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and quaint atmosphere. Sonoma is more touristy than Key Largo and is known for its world-class winemaking and sustainable agriculture. It is also well known for Buena Vista Winery. 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.

How is Key Largo different from Sonoma?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Key Largo
Sonoma

Sonoma is adequate for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Sonoma specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't think of museums when they think of Sonoma, there are actually some interesting local options. The California Indian Museum, the Cotati Museum, and the Depot Park Museum are also local are fascinating.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Key Largo
Sonoma

Sonoma 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 Sonoma have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Although wine may be the first thing you think about, the region is also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and award-winning dining options. The food is almost always fresh and local. You can sample many local ingredients such as vegetables, cheeses, olive oils, and fish.

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 Sonoma Better for Nightlife?

Key Largo
Sonoma

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

Many people head to Sonoma for the nightlife scene. Lounges, wine bars, and live music venues offer a variety of activities for visitors during the evening hours.

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 Sonoma Better for Resorts?

Key Largo
Sonoma

If luxury resorts are your style, both Key Largo and Sonoma have great options.

In Key Largo, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

There are plenty of resorts in Sonoma to choose from. Spa hotels, charming inns, and beautiful resorts all offer a variety of options for visitors.


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

Key Largo
Sonoma

Key Largo is a great island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sonoma is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key Largo is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Sonoma is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Sonoma Better for Beaches?

Key Largo
Sonoma

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

The beaches at Sonoma attract visitors from all over. The county has a coastline that includes several great beaches as well as rocky shoreline. The beaches include secluded coves and picturesque cliffs as well as sand dunes and sandy beaches.

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 Sonoma Better for Hiking?

Key Largo
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sonoma for the hiking trails. In between wine tastings you can explore the area's stunning natural beauty. There are hikes through the vineyards, along the coast, or through forested parks. Some of the best hikes are found in Jack London State Historic Park, Sugarloaf State Park, and Armstrong Woods State Park.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Sonoma?

Key Largo
Sonoma

Sonoma is great for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Sonoma. You'll find a range of local vendors in the area, selling everything from jewelry to art, home decor, and olive oil.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Sonoma More Beautiful?

Key Largo
Sonoma

Sonoma is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Sonoma because of it's amazing beauty. The lined vineyards are strikingly beautiful and the setting offers stunning viewpoints and a serene beauty.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Sonoma Better for Families?

Key Largo
Sonoma

Key Largo is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sonoma is not as popular, but is still a nice county for its family-friendly activities.

Key Largo is an extremely popular island to visit for families. 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.

Sonoma is a family-friendly place to visit. While most people think immediately of wine tours, there's actually a lot more to Sonoma County. Kids will enjoy the many outdoor activities in the area, which include beaches, parks, wildlife viewing, and more. There's also horseback riding and even ziplining opportunities.


Is Key Largo or Sonoma Better for Couples?

Key Largo
Sonoma

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

Sonoma is a great county for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination for couples who come for the vineyards and wine tours. There are also charming hotels, award winning restaurants, and beautiful beaches.

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 Sonoma Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Key Largo
Sonoma

Neither Key Largo or Sonoma 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 Sonoma. While there are buses, they are almost never used by tourists. There is the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley which you should purchase tickets for in advance.

Is Key Largo or Sonoma a more walkable city?

Key Largo
Sonoma

Neither Key Largo or Sonoma are walkable places.

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

Sonoma is not a walkable island. You really must have a car to get around the area and explore it efficiently.


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

Should I spend more time in Sonoma or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Sonoma?

It's fun to spend time in either Key Largo or Sonoma. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key Largo due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 2-4 days is enough time in Sonoma.

Families should spend more time in Key Largo than Sonoma. 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.

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

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


  • How many days in Key Largo or Sonoma? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key Largo 5-7 
    Sonoma 2-4

One day in Key Largo or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself 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 food and shopping around the county of Sonoma. 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.

A weekend in Key Largo or Sonoma?

Key Largo 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Sonoma. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this county has to offer. This county offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Sonoma?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key Largo. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing county of Sonoma. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Key Largo or Sonoma?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the peaceful destination of Key Largo. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

Sonoma is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. 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, Sonoma 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
    Sonoma Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key Largo $256
    Sonoma $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Key Largo is $256, while the average daily cost in Sonoma is $260. 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 Sonoma in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key Largo $117
    Sonoma $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key Largo $234
    Sonoma $186
Compare Hotels in Key Largo and Sonoma

Looking for a hotel in Key Largo or Sonoma? 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 Sonoma


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 Sonoma Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key Largo $56
    Sonoma $134

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 Sonoma?

Prices for flights to both Sonoma 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
    Sonoma $96

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key Largo $27
    Sonoma $16

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
  • 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
  • Key Largo Snorkeling Tour - rental mask, fins and vest INCLUDED: $75

Tours and Activities in Sonoma

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

  • From Napa Valley Classic Sidecar Tour to 3 Wineries: $340
  • Sonoma Valley: Guided Winery Tour with Picnic Lunch: $137
  • Sonoma Valley: Wine Trolley Tasting Tour with Lunch: $135
  • Sonoma Plaza Walking Tour: $109

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key Largo $24
    Sonoma $41


When comparing the travel costs between Key Largo and Sonoma, we can see that Sonoma is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sonoma Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Sonoma?

Key Largo has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Sonoma. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Sonoma, 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 Sonoma?

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 Sonoma in the Summer?

Both Sonoma and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sonoma this time of year.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Sonoma in the summer. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Sonoma fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Key Largo. In July, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Sonoma. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Key Largo 82°F (28°C) 
    Sonoma 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Sonoma in the Autumn?

Both Sonoma and Key Largo during the autumn are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sonoma for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Key Largo is much warmer than Sonoma. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key Largo in October average around 78°F (26°C), and Sonoma averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in October than Sonoma. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key Largo 78°F (26°C) 
    Sonoma 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Sonoma in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Sonoma. Many travelers come to Key Largo for the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Sonoma in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Sonoma. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 67°F (19°C), and Sonoma fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In January, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Sonoma. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key Largo 67°F (19°C) 
    Sonoma 46°F (8°C)

Should I visit Key Largo or Sonoma in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Sonoma. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to Sonoma for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Key Largo is much warmer than Sonoma in the spring. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 74°F (24°C) in April, and Sonoma fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

Key Largo usually gets more rain in April than Sonoma. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Sonoma receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key Largo 74°F (24°C) 
    Sonoma 56°F (13°C)

Typical Weather for Sonoma and Key Largo

Key Largo Sonoma
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 67°F (19°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Feb 68°F (20°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Mar 71°F (22°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
Apr 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm)
May 78°F (26°C) 6.4 inches (162 mm) 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 9.4 inches (238 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.9 inches (149 mm) 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 83°F (28°C) 7.5 inches (191 mm) 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm)
Sep 82°F (28°C) 7.6 inches (194 mm) 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm)
Oct 78°F (26°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Nov 73°F (23°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Dec 69°F (21°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm) 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)