A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Monterey for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey? 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Acapulco de Juarez and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Monterey. Although Acapulco de Juarez and Monterey are popular destinations, Monterey has more sights and attractions for tourists. Monterey is very popular for its museums, food, and shopping, while Acapulco de Juarez attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Acapulco de Juarez is famous for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood. It is also well known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Monterey is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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 Monterey? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Monterey is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Acapulco de Juarez has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Acapulco de Juarez for its luxury resorts. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

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

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Many people visit Acapulco de Juarez for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Acapulco de Juarez. 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.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey Better for Families?

Monterey is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Monterey is a very family-friendly destination. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Acapulco de Juarez is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Monterey is a popular place for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

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

Acapulco de Juarez is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey 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 generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey a more walkable city?

Monterey is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Acapulco de Juarez and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than in Monterey. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Acapulco de Juarez, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

Couples should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Monterey. 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 Monterey than Acapulco de Juarez 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 Monterey.

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

The city of Acapulco de Juarez offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Monterey. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Monterey is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the nature-oriented city of Monterey. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monterey has to offer.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Acapulco de Juarez, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Monterey. 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 Monterey?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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 city offers something for everyone.

Monterey is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acapulco de Juarez and Monterey, we can see that Monterey 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 Monterey would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monterey 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 Monterey Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

Acapulco de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and Monterey, 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 Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Acapulco de Juarez receives a lot of rain in the summer. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey in the Autumn?

Both Monterey and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the autumn, Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. In October, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Monterey. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Acapulco de Juarez during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Acapulco de Juarez is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 26°C (79°F), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in January than Monterey. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Monterey in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and Monterey. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Monterey. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Acapulco de Juarez