A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Key Largo vs. Whistler for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Key Largo or Whistler?

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 Whistler 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. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches. See Key Largo travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

Key Largo and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key Largo or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Whistler is more touristy than Key Largo and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Key Largo is well 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.

How is Key Largo different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key Largo or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Key Largo is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Key Largo is not a skiing destination.

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

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

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Whistler is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Whistler for the nightlife scene. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

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 Whistler Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Key Largo and Whistler have high quality 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 Whistler to choose from. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

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

Key Largo is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Whistler 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.

Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Key Largo is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

Key Largo has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Around Whistler visitors will find world-class hiking trails. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Whistler?

Whistler is a village with good options for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Whistler has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Whistler More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Key Largo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key Largo or Whistler Better for Families?

Both Key Largo and Whistler are first-rate to visit with kids.

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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Whistler is very family-friendly. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Key Largo or Whistler Better for Couples?

Whistler is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Whistler is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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 Whistler Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Whistler is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget 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 Whistler Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Whistler 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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 Whistler a more walkable city?

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

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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 Whistler Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Whistler?

In either Key Largo or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Key Largo than Whistler because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key Largo, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

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

One day in Key Largo or Whistler?

The island of Key Largo offers scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the village of Whistler. 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 Whistler?

Key Largo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the adventurous destination of Whistler. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Whistler?

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key Largo, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find skiing and nightlife around the outdoorsy village of Whistler. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this village has to offer.

A week in Key Largo or Whistler?

Key Largo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key Largo has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Whistler 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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 Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Whistler?

Key Largo has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Whistler, 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 Whistler?

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 Whistler in the Summer?

Both Whistler 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. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Whistler because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key Largo is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Whistler averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Whistler, 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 Whistler. Key Largo gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 296 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in July than Whistler. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Whistler in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Whistler. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Whistler this time of year.

In October, Key Largo is generally much warmer than Whistler. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 78°F (26°C), and Whistler fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during autumn. Key Largo gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 124 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Whistler receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Whistler. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Key Largo or Whistler in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Whistler. Key Largo is much warmer than Whistler in the winter. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Whistler fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

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 Whistler. Key Largo gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Whistler receives 55 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Whistler. Key Largo usually gets less rain in January than Whistler. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Whistler in the Spring?

Both Whistler 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 Whistler in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key Largo is much warmer than Whistler. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Whistler averages at about 9°C (49°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually receives more sunshine than Whistler during spring. Key Largo gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Whistler receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Whistler. In April, Key Largo usually receives less rain than Whistler. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Whistler receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Whistler and Key Largo