Should I Visit Key Largo or Palm Springs? Which is Better for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Food? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive? | Budget Your Trip (2024)

Should you visit Key Largo or Palm Springs?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Key Largo and Palm Springs can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a beautiful, relaxed, and peaceful island. It's a quaint destination. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Key Largo and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palm Springs than Key Largo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palm Springs is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Key Largo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and quaint atmosphere. Palm Springs is more touristy than Key Largo and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Also, Palm Springs is famous for the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Key Largo is well known for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove.

How is Key Largo different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palm Springs and Key Largo. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Palm Springs. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Key Largo or Palm Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palm Springs is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Palm Springs has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Palm Springs is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from co*cktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

There are plenty of resorts in Key Largo to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key Largo is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

Key Largo is very good for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Key Largo to enjoy the beach. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is great for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs is great for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palm Springs. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Key Largo is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Key Largo is one of the most popular family destinations. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Palm Springs is great for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Palm Springs is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Palm Springs is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Key Largo or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

Key Largo is not a walkable island. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Key Largo Worth Visiting? and Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Key Largo?

How long in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs than Key Largo 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 Palm Springs.

One day in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

In Key Largo, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxed island offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

Key Largo 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the chic destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

In Key Largo, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling that this family-friendly destination offers. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy city of Palm Springs. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Key Largo or Palm Springs?

Key Largo is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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.

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

When comparing the travel costs between Key Largo and Palm Springs, we can see that Key Largo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Key Largo Expensive? and Is Palm Springs Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Key Largo or Palm Springs?

Palm Springs has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Key Largo. When comparing the sizes of Key Largo and Palm Springs, 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 Largo or Palm Springs?

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 Largo or Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs and Key Largo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Key Largo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Key Largo is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the summer temperatures in Key Largo in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. Key Largo usually gets more rain in July than Palm Springs. Key Largo gets 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Key Largo and Palm Springs. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Key Largo is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in Key Largo average around 78°F (26°C), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Key Largo gets 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Key Largo or Palm Springs in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key Largo as well as Palm Springs. The winter months attract visitors to Key Largo because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year.

Key Largo is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the winter. The daily temperature in Key Largo averages around 67°F (19°C) in January, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

Key Largo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Palm Springs. Key Largo gets 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Key Largo or Palm Springs in the Spring?

Both Palm Springs and Key Largo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year.

In the spring, Key Largo is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the spring temperatures in Key Largo in April average around 74°F (24°C), and Palm Springs averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In April, Key Largo usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. Key Largo gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and Key Largo