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

Should you visit Key West or Saint Simons?

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

Should I visit Key West or Saint Simons? 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. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Key West travel costs.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a laid back, scenic, and relaxing island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Saint Simons travel costs.

Key West and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key West or Saint Simons?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Key West. Although Key West and Saint Simons are popular destinations, Key West has more sights and attractions for tourists. Key West is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Saint Simons attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Key West is more touristy than Saint Simons 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. Saint Simons is famous for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Key West different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Saint Simons is a moderate island for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint Simons offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Saint Simons has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

Key West is a great destination for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

The people in Key West know how to have a good time. 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

Key West is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Saint Simons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Key West and Saint Simons are high quality 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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

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

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Saint Simons?

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

Saint Simons is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Saint Simons More Beautiful?

Key West is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Saint Simons is a beautiful place to visit, too. Beautiful beaches and live oaks with Spanish moss give the island a southern charm.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Saint Simons.

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 Saint Simons. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Is Key West or Saint Simons Better for Students?

Key West is a great destination for students. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Neither Key West or Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Key West or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Key West and Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable town. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Key West?

How long in Key West or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either Key West or Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons?

In Key West, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this eclectic town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons?

Key West is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island 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 Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Saint Simons?

In Key West, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this bustling destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons?

Key West is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint Simons 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 island 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 Saint Simons, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Saint Simons much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Saint Simons would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons.

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 Saint Simons Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key West or Saint Simons?

Key West has a larger population, and is about 84% larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Key West and Saint Simons, 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 Saint Simons?

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 Saint Simons in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Key West and Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons this time of year.

In July, Key West is generally around the same temperature as Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 84°F (29°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In Key West, it's very sunny this time of the year. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Saint Simons during summer. Key West gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

Saint Simons receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Key West usually receives less rain than Saint Simons. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Key West or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Key West as well as Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Key West is a little warmer than Saint Simons in the autumn. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key West this time of the year. In the autumn, Key West often gets more sunshine than Saint Simons. Key West gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 214 hours of full sun.

Key West receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Key West usually gets more rain in October than Saint Simons. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 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 Saint Simons in the Winter?

Both Saint Simons and Key West are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Key West for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Saint Simons in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Key West is much warmer than Saint Simons. Typically, the winter temperatures in Key West in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Saint Simons averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key West. Key West usually receives more sunshine than Saint Simons during winter. Key West gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Key West usually receives less rain than Saint Simons. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Key West or Saint Simons in the Spring?

Both Saint Simons and Key West during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key West in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Key West is generally a little warmer than Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 77°F (25°C), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Key West. In the spring, Key West often gets more sunshine than Saint Simons. Key West gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 285 hours of full sun.

Key West usually gets less rain in April than Saint Simons. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Key West