A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Jekyll Island for Resorts, Couples, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island? 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.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a vibrant, built-up, and well-known city. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a secluded, natural, and relaxing island. Other popular activities here include museums, beaches, and hiking.

Acapulco de Juarez and Jekyll Island: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Acapulco de Juarez. Although Acapulco de Juarez and Jekyll Island are popular destinations, Acapulco de Juarez has more sights and attractions for tourists. Acapulco de Juarez is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Jekyll Island attracts visitors for its museums and hiking. Acapulco de Juarez is more touristy than Jekyll Island and is popular for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs. It is also well known for the cliff divers of La Quebrada. Jekyll Island is famous for its quiet beaches and its Historic District.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Jekyll Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jekyll Island and Acapulco de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Jekyll Island. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.


Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Acapulco de Juarez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Acapulco de Juarez is a world class party destination. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Jekyll Island. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its resorts.

Acapulco de Juarez is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.


Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Acapulco de Juarez is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Jekyll Island is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Acapulco de Juarez and Jekyll Island are excellent choices.

Acapulco de Juarez is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Jekyll Island is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Hiking?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Jekyll Island. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Acapulco de Juarez has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Families?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island.

Acapulco de Juarez is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.


Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Acapulco de Juarez has some public transit options. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez
Jekyll Island

Acapulco de Juarez is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Acapulco de Juarez is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable city. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jekyll Island or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

It's fun to spend time in either Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Acapulco de Juarez, and 2-4 days is enough time in Jekyll Island.

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

Couples should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Acapulco de Juarez that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Jekyll Island 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 Acapulco de Juarez.


  • How many days in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acapulco de Juarez 3-5 
    Jekyll Island 2-4

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Acapulco de Juarez. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the secluded destination of Jekyll Island. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acapulco de Juarez. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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.

Jekyll Island is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the natural island of Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Jekyll Island has to offer.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the well-known destination of Acapulco de Juarez. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city 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.

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Jekyll Island. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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.

A week in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the city of Acapulco de Juarez. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Jekyll Island or Acapulco de Juarez?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Acapulco de Juarez is $81, while the average daily cost in Jekyll Island is $156. 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 Acapulco de Juarez and Jekyll Island in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acapulco de Juarez $39
    Jekyll Island $88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acapulco de Juarez $78
    Jekyll Island $176
Compare Hotels in Acapulco de Juarez and Jekyll Island

Looking for a hotel in Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island? 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 Acapulco de Juarez


Hotels in Jekyll Island


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: Acapulco de Juarez Hotel Prices and Jekyll Island Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acapulco de Juarez $16
    Jekyll Island $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Acapulco de Juarez

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Acapulco de Juarez:

  • Transfer in private minivan from Bahía de Acapulco -Acapulco Airport (ACA): $32
  • Private Airport Transfer &on 2nd Day 4Hr TourAll AttractionsCombo: $90
  • Airport Transfer in Suburban: $65
  • Acapulco Airport Transfer: $10
  • Private Best Round Trip Airport - Hotel - Airport Transfer : $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

Prices for flights to both Jekyll Island and Acapulco de Juarez 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
    Acapulco de Juarez $29
    Jekyll Island $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Acapulco de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Acapulco de Juarez.

  • High Divers DeLuxe Three Course Dinner +Three Drinks plus SUNSET: $49
  • Cliff Divers Exhibition 2 Drinks + Tacos al Pastor Dinner & Beer: $55
  • Lucha Libre-Wrestling Experience Taco Dinner Beer ONLY SATURDAYS: $72
  • Off the Beaten Path Mexican Cooking Class Lagoon Boatride &Lunch: $89
  • Hands On Mexican Cooking Class with Food Tasting & Market Visit: $100
  • Bella Vista PRIVATE Al Fresco 3 Course Dinner Cliff Diver3Drinks: $191
  • Super DeLuxe Bella Vista Dinner &1 Drink +2 Drinks at CliffDivers: $193
  • Divers Show and Luxury Dinner in Acapulco: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acapulco de Juarez $18
    Jekyll Island $10

Tours and Activities in Acapulco de Juarez

Here are a few actual costs in Acapulco de Juarez for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Small-Group or Private All Inclusive 4 Hours City Tour & Divers: $36
  • 4 Hrs Exclusive to Cruise Ship Passengers Sightseeing Experience : $62
  • 4-6Hrs Acapulco City Tour With a Fun Guide. Diver Show, Mex Lunch: $47
  • 4Hrs Small Group Half Day City Tour with Lunch at High Divers: $85
  • 4hr City Tour For Cruises or Hotels Diver Peace Chapel & Mural: $40
  • 6Hr City Tour Cruise or Hotel Turtle Nesting High Diver & Market: $51
  • 6Hr Cruise or Hotels City Tour, Divers, Baby Turtles Peace Chapel: $51
  • 6Hr Cruisers or Hotels High Diver Peace Chapel BabyTurtleRelease: $50
  • Acapulco City Tour: $56
  • Acapulco City Tour : $35
  • Acapulco Highlights City Sightseeing Tour: $65
  • Acapulco Historical & Cultural Tour : $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acapulco de Juarez $11
    Jekyll Island $6.43


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive? and Is Jekyll Island Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island?

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Jekyll Island. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Acapulco de Juarez is around the same temperature as Jekyll Island in the summer. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In the summer, Acapulco de Juarez often gets less sunshine than Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 286 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez receives a lot of rain in the summer. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in July than Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acapulco de Juarez 29°C (83°F) 
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island in the Autumn?

Both Jekyll Island and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Jekyll Island. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Jekyll Island averages at about 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Jekyll Island. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more sunshine than Jekyll Island during autumn. Acapulco de Juarez gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. In October, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acapulco de Juarez 28°C (83°F) 
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island in the Winter?

Both Jekyll Island and Acapulco de Juarez during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Jekyll Island this time of year.

In January, Acapulco de Juarez is generally much warmer than Jekyll Island. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 26°C (79°F), and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. In the winter, Acapulco de Juarez often gets more sunshine than Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez gets 272 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jekyll Island receives 191 hours of full sun.

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in January than Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acapulco de Juarez 26°C (79°F) 
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Jekyll Island in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and Jekyll Island. The beaches are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches.

Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Jekyll Island in the spring. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Jekyll Island fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Jekyll Island during spring. Acapulco de Juarez gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Jekyll Island receives 285 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Jekyll Island. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Jekyll Island receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acapulco de Juarez 27°C (81°F) 
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Jekyll Island and Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez Jekyll Island
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Feb 26°C (80°F) 1 mm (0 in) 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Mar 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
May 28°C (82°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 29°C (83°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 209 mm (8.2 in) 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 312 mm (12.3 in) 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 341 mm (13.4 in) 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Nov 28°C (82°F) 50 mm (2 in) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)


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