A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Tampa vs. Martha's Vineyard for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

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

Should I visit Tampa or Martha's Vineyard? 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a easy-going, low-key, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a coastal, peaceful, and affluent island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Martha's Vineyard travel costs.

Tampa and Martha's Vineyard: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Martha's Vineyard. Although Tampa and Martha's Vineyard are popular destinations, Martha's Vineyard has more sights and attractions for tourists. Martha's Vineyard is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Tampa attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and big city activities. Martha's Vineyard is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. It is also well known for the Aquinnah Cliffs. Tampa is famous for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port.

How is Tampa different from Martha's Vineyard?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Martha's Vineyard and Tampa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

Martha's Vineyard is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Martha's Vineyard is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Martha's Vineyard has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Nightlife?

Both Tampa and Martha's Vineyard have reasonable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Tampa. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Martha's Vineyard is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Resorts?

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Martha's Vineyard is a great choice. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

Tampa is not a resort destination.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Martha's Vineyard is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Martha's Vineyard is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Tampa and Martha's Vineyard are superb choices.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks Beach.

Martha's Vineyard is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Hiking?

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Martha's Vineyard is a good destination for hiking. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

Martha's Vineyard is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Martha's Vineyard. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard More Beautiful?

Martha's Vineyard is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors from all around. The rugged coastline and rolling hills give this area a natural beauty.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Families?

Tampa is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Martha's Vineyard is a family-friendly place to visit. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Couples?

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

Martha's Vineyard makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Martha's Vineyard is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Martha's Vineyard a more walkable city?

Martha's Vineyard is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

Martha's Vineyard is a somewhat walkable island. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Tampa Worth Visiting? and Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Martha's Vineyard or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tampa and Martha's Vineyard. In our opinion, Martha's Vineyard has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Martha's Vineyard than Tampa. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Tampa, and 1-3 days is enough time in Martha's Vineyard.

Families should spend more time in Tampa than Martha's Vineyard. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tampa, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Martha's Vineyard than Tampa. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Martha's Vineyard that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Martha's Vineyard than Tampa 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 Martha's Vineyard.

One day in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

With food around the destination of Tampa, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Even though Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

With food around the low-key city of Tampa, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Martha's Vineyard. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the laid-back destination of Tampa. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Martha's Vineyard is a fun place to experience. Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

Tampa is a popular choice for travelers. Most people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Martha's Vineyard is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Tampa and Martha's Vineyard, we can see that Martha's Vineyard is more expensive. And not only is Tampa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tampa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tampa 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 Martha's Vineyard would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Martha's Vineyard than you might in Tampa.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tampa Expensive? and Is Martha's Vineyard Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Tampa or Martha's Vineyard?

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 Tampa or Martha's Vineyard in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Martha's Vineyard. Most visitors come to Tampa for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Martha's Vineyard because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Tampa is a little warmer than Martha's Vineyard in the summer. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Martha's Vineyard this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives less sunshine than Martha's Vineyard during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Martha's Vineyard receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Martha's Vineyard. Tampa gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tampa or Martha's Vineyard in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Martha's Vineyard. The autumn months attract visitors to Tampa because of the city's sights and attractions. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Martha's Vineyard this time of year.

In the autumn, Tampa is much warmer than Martha's Vineyard. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tampa in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Martha's Vineyard averages at about 53°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Martha's Vineyard. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Martha's Vineyard. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Martha's Vineyard receives 211 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Martha's Vineyard. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tampa or Martha's Vineyard in the Winter?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The cuisine are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Martha's Vineyard for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Martha's Vineyard. In January, Tampa is generally much warmer than Martha's Vineyard. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 60°F (15°C), and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 28°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Martha's Vineyard during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Martha's Vineyard receives 170 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Martha's Vineyard. Tampa gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tampa or Martha's Vineyard in the Spring?

Both Martha's Vineyard and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tampa for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Martha's Vineyard in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Tampa is much warmer than Martha's Vineyard in the spring. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Martha's Vineyard fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

In Martha's Vineyard, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Martha's Vineyard. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Martha's Vineyard receives 225 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Martha's Vineyard. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Martha's Vineyard receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Martha's Vineyard and Tampa