A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Duck for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Key West or Duck?

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

Should I visit Key West or Duck? 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. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Key West travel costs.

Duck

Duck is a compact, charming, and laid-back beach town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Duck is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Duck travel costs.

Key West and Duck: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Duck?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Duck are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere, while Duck attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, beaches, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Duck 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 well known for Duval Street. Duck is famous for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm.

How is Key West different from Duck?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Duck offers a few options for museum-goers. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Key West makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Duck has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

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 Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Resorts?

Key West is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Duck is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Key West is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Duck makes a nice vacation spot. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

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

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Duck is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Key West has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Duck is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Beaches?

Duck is renowned for the beach. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Duck. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Is Key West or Duck Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Duck does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Duck does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Hiking?

Duck is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Duck is a good destination for hiking. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Duck?

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

Duck is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

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 Duck More Beautiful?

Key West and Duck are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality 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, Duck attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful sandy beaches and family-friendly parks offer a beautiful and relaxed beach vacation.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Duck.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Duck. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Duck make for a high quality 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.

Duck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

Is Key West or Duck Better for Students?

Key West is a well-known place for students. However, Duck is not popular with students.

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.

Duck is not popular with students.

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

Duck is a moderate beach 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 Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

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

Is Key West or Duck a more walkable city?

Duck 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 Duck on foot. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

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 Duck Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Duck or Key West?

How long in Key West or Duck?

Both Key West and Duck have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Key West has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Key West than Duck. However, 5-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West than Duck 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 Duck?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the destination of Key West. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Duck?

Key West is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Duck is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Five days in Key West or Duck?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the active destination of Key West. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Duck is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Duck, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Key West or Duck?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the active town of Key West. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Duck is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Duck has to offer. This beach 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 Duck, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Duck much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Duck would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Duck 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 Duck.

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 Duck Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Duck?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Duck, 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 Duck?

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 Duck in the Summer?

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

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Duck. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Duck fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Duck. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Duck during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Duck. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Duck. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Duck in the Autumn?

Both Duck and Key West during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Key West this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Duck for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Key West is much warmer than Duck in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Duck fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Duck, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Duck. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 211 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Duck. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Should I visit Key West or Duck in the Winter?

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

Duck can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Duck. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Duck averages at about 41°F (5°C).

In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Duck during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Duck receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

Duck receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Duck. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Duck in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Key West as well as Duck. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Duck for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Duck. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Duck fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Duck. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Duck. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Duck receives 253 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Duck. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Duck receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Duck and Key West