A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Key West vs. Sequoia National Park for Backpackers, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Key West or Sequoia National Park?

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

Should I visit Key West or Sequoia National Park? 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 eclectic, bustling, and active town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Key West is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Key West travel costs.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a breathtaking, surreal, and impressive national park. You'll find world class beauty in Sequoia National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Sequoia National Park travel costs.

Key West and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Key West or Sequoia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Key West and Sequoia National Park are popular destinations, Sequoia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sequoia National Park is very popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Key West attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Key West is famous 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. Sequoia National Park is famous for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also well known for the General Sherman tree.

How is Key West different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Key West or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Key West has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its resorts.

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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sequoia National Park 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Beaches?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Sequoia National Park 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.

Sequoia National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

People visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Sequoia National Park?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Both Key West and Sequoia National Park are reasonable shopping destinations.

If you're looking to go shopping, Key West has some nice offerings. 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.

Sequoia National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are markets within the park.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park More Beautiful?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park as well. The spectacular trees tower over you and the setting is simply magical. There are world class hikes and settings that will leave you in awe.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Sequoia National Park.

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 Sequoia National Park. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Key West and Sequoia National Park 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.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Students?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sequoia National Park 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.

Sequoia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a moderate national park 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 Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

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

Is Key West or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Key West
Sequoia National Park

Key West is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.


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

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Key West?

How long in Key West or Sequoia National Park?

Both Key West and Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Key West, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Key West than Sequoia National Park. 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 Sequoia National Park. 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.


  • How many days in Key West or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Key West 5-7 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Key West or Sequoia National Park?

In Key West, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful national park of Sequoia National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Key West. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sequoia National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Sequoia National Park?

Key West is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sequoia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sequoia National Park, 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 Sequoia National Park?

In Key West, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sequoia National Park has to offer. This national park 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.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Key West?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Key West Prices
    USA Prices
    Sequoia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key West $832
    Sequoia National Park $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $832, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $152. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Key West and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Key West and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Key West or Sequoia National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Key West


Hotels in Sequoia National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Key West Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Sequoia National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • Private Transfer from Key West hotels to Key West Cruise Port: $114
  • Private Transfer from Key West Airport (EYW) to Key West Port: $113
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $54
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $164
  • Key West hotels to Key West Int Airport (EYW) Departure Transfer: $156
  • Key West Int Airport EYW to Key West Hotels Arrival Transfer: $156
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $164

Is it cheaper to fly into Key West or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Key West change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Key West $667
    Sequoia National Park $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Key West.

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar & Live Music: $74
  • Exploring and Walking Food Tour of Cayo Hueso: $80
  • Key West Cooking Show Chef Demonstration with Meal: $81
  • Cooking Show Chef Demonstration with Meal: $81
  • Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner, Live Music & Drinks Included: $84
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $90
  • Key West Sunset Buffet Dinner Cruise with Open Bar and Live Music: $100
  • Secret Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Key West $33
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Key West

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Key West are as follows:

  • 2 Hour Key West Mini Catamaran Eco Tour: $285
  • 2-Hour Live Music Guided Tour in Key West: $35
  • Day Sailing Adventure in the Florida Marine Sanctuary: $99
  • Day in Key West - Private SUV Tour From Miami: $1,300
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Florida Keys: Aquarium Encounters Day Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Florida Keys: Dolphin Research Center Day Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Florida Keys: Up The Keys Nature Tour: $128
  • From Dolphin Watching Tour with Lunch & Drinks: $150
  • From Sandbar Cruise with Lunch and Open Bar (18+): $151
  • Guided Mangrove Eco Tours Kayak or Paddleboard Adventure: $75
  • Guided Night Kayak Adventure Tour in Luminous Lagoon: $90

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kings Canyon National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon NP Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Audio Tour Self Guide National Park Tour: $20
  • Sequoia National Park Small-Group Tour from Wuksachi Lodge: $283
  • Sequoia National Park Small Group Tour from Three Rivers.: $289
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Key West $16
    Sequoia National Park $7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

Also in Key West, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Key West Bar Crawl: $15
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour with Free T-Shirt: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Key West and Sequoia National Park, we can see that Key West is more expensive. And not only is Sequoia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sequoia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sequoia National Park 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 Sequoia National Park.

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 Sequoia National Park Expensive?.