A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

Should I visit Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea? 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a picturesque, quaint, and charming town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea are both popular with visitors, Key West has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Key West is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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. Carmel-by-the-Sea is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Key West different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Key West offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Resorts?

Key West is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

In Key West, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea are excellent 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea More Beautiful?

Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea are somewhat similar when it comes to the excellent scenery.

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

With stunning beauty, Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors from all around. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Key West is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea make for a excellent place to visit.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Students?

Key West is a well-known place for students. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not popular with students.

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

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

Is Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is notable 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable town. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Key West?

How long in Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

Families should spend more time in Key West than Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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.

One day in Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the quirky town of Key West, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the bustling destination of Key West, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week here is typical. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Summer?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Key West in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In July, Key West usually receives more rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Autumn?

Both Carmel-by-the-Sea and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Key West for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Carmel-by-the-Sea because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Key West is generally much warmer than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 80°F (27°C), and Carmel-by-the-Sea fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 0.6 inches (14 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Carmel-by-the-Sea. The winter months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Carmel-by-the-Sea this time of year.

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

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Carmel-by-the-Sea in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Carmel-by-the-Sea. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Carmel-by-the-Sea for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Carmel-by-the-Sea. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Carmel-by-the-Sea receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Typical Weather for Carmel-by-the-Sea and Key West