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

Should you visit Key West or Kennebunkport?

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

Should I visit Key West or Kennebunkport? 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 bustling, active, and lively town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food. See Key West travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Key West and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Kennebunkport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Kennebunkport are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Kennebunkport attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Kennebunkport 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 well known for Duval Street. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Key West different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Key West and Kennebunkport.

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.

Kennebunkport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Key West is great for nightlife. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Key West and Kennebunkport offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Kennebunkport. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

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

Key West is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Key West is great for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

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.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for its Old Town?

Key West is great for its historic old town. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

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

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Kennebunkport?

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

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

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 Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Key West is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

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

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 Kennebunkport. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Is Key West or Kennebunkport Better for Students?

Key West is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kennebunkport 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.

Kennebunkport is not popular with students.

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

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

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

Is Key West or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Key West and Kennebunkport both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable town. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Key West?

How long in Key West or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Key West or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Key West due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Kennebunkport. 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.

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the bustling destination of Key West. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Key West or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kennebunkport 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kennebunkport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the lively destination of Key West. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful town of Key West. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Kennebunkport, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Kennebunkport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kennebunkport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport.

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 Kennebunkport Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Kennebunkport?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Kennebunkport, 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 Kennebunkport?

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 Kennebunkport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Key West as well as Kennebunkport. The summer months attract visitors to Key West because of the beaches, snorkeling, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kennebunkport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the summer, Key West often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

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

Key West is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during autumn. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Key West. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.

Should I visit Key West or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

Both Kennebunkport and Key West during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

It's quite sunny in Key West. In the winter, Key West often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in January than Kennebunkport. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key West or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Kennebunkport. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Key West is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kennebunkport this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during spring. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Key West usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Key West.

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Key West