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

Should you visit Key West or Berkeley?

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

Should I visit Key West or Berkeley? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. Berkeley is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Berkeley travel costs.

Key West and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Berkeley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Berkeley are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Berkeley is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Berkeley and is known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It is also home to Duval Street. Berkeley is popular for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Key West different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Berkeley?

Berkeley is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Berkeley offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Key West and Berkeley.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Key West. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Berkeley has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Key West and Berkeley.

Key West has plenty to do after the sun goes down. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Berkeley has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Key West is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Key West is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Key West is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Key West. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

Key West is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Key West to see the historical old town. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Berkeley?

Berkeley is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Key West or Berkeley More Beautiful?

Key West is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Families?

Key West is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Key West is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Berkeley is a family-friendly town. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Key West is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for couples. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berkeley is a great city to visit for backpackers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Key West or Berkeley Better for Students?

Key West and Berkeley are both very good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Key West is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Berkeley is very popular with students. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

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

Berkeley is renowned for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Berkeley has a great public transit system. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Berkeley is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Berkeley on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Key West is a somewhat walkable town. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key West Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Key West?

How long in Key West or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Berkeley. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Key West 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 Berkeley.

One day in Key West or Berkeley?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The city of Berkeley offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Key West or Berkeley?

Key West 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.

Berkeley is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berkeley, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Berkeley?

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

Berkeley is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Berkeley?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Berkeley is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Key West or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Berkeley, 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 West or Berkeley?

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 West or Berkeley in the Summer?

Both Berkeley and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Key West is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key West in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In July, Key West usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Berkeley in the Autumn?

Both Berkeley and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Key West or Berkeley in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Berkeley. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Key West is much warmer than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Berkeley in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Berkeley. The spring months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Berkeley. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Key West