A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Big Sur for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Key West or Big Sur? 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 lively, quaint, and laid-back town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Key West attracts visitors from all around. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Key West travel costs.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. You'll find world class beauty in Big Sur as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Big Sur travel costs.

Key West and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Big Sur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Big Sur are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Big Sur is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Key West is more touristy than Big Sur and is popular 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. Big Sur is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Key West different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Big Sur is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Key West has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Key West for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Key West is great for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. 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.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. 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.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Big Sur are great choices.

Key West is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Big Sur is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for its Old Town?

Key West is great for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. 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.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Big Sur?

Key West is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Key West or Big Sur More Beautiful?

Big Sur is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Big Sur as well. The road clings to the cliffs and makes dramatic curves, offering peaks at the striking blue water and breathtaking setting. This is truly one of those special places that feels unreal in its 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.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Families?

Key West is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. 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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Is Key West or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Sur is a popular place for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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 Big Sur Better for Students?

Key West is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Big Sur is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or Big Sur offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Key West or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Key West is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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.

Big Sur is not a walkable town. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Key West?

How long in Key West or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Key West and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Key West than in Big Sur. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur. 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 Key West than Big Sur 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 Key West.

One day in Key West or Big Sur?

In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful natural area of Big Sur offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Big Sur?

In Key West, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Big Sur is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this natural area makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Big Sur?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur 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 Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. In Key West, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Big Sur is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This natural area 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 Big Sur, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Big Sur.

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 Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Key West or Big Sur?

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 West or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Big Sur. The beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Key West usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

Key West is much warmer than Big Sur in the winter. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Big Sur. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Big Sur. Most visitors come to Key West for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Key West is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key West in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Big Sur averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Big Sur. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Key West