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

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern? 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 built-up, well-known, and vibrant city. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Acapulco de Juarez travel costs.

New Bern

New Bern is a charming, laid back, and quaint town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See New Bern travel costs.

Acapulco de Juarez and New Bern: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Acapulco de Juarez than New Bern, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Acapulco de Juarez is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while New Bern is more popular for its museums and attractions and small town charm. Acapulco de Juarez is more touristy than New Bern and is known for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is famous for the cliff divers of La Quebrada. New Bern is well known for being the birthplace of Pepsi.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from New Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

New Bern 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 New Bern. Many visitors check out the Tryon Palace while they're in town. Other museums include the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Carolina Creations Fine Art & Contemporary Craft Gallery, and the New Bern Academy Museum.

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 New Bern? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Dining out at restaurants in both Acapulco de Juarez and New Bern can be an enjoyable experience.

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

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around New Bern. There are a number of local eateries, bistros, and cafes in town. You can sample southern favorites or something international. Popular dishes include fresh caught fish, crab cakes, and even tacos.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, New Bern is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Acapulco de Juarez is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

New Bern doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a couple of pubs and breweries around town.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, New Bern is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Acapulco de Juarez is a great choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

New Bern is not a resort destination.


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

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, New Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

New Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is well known for its beaches. However, New Bern is not a beach destination.

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.

New Bern is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Shopping is a popular activity in both New Bern and Acapulco de Juarez.

Many visitors go to Acapulco de Juarez to go shopping. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in New Bern. There are local shops and boutiques that sell clothing, antiques, and gifts.


Is Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern Better for Families?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, New Bern is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Acapulco de Juarez is 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.

For families, New Bern is not always the best place to visit. Stand up paddle boarding and other outdoor activities are a fun way to experience the area with kids. You could also visit the New Bern Fireman's Museum, the Tryon Palace, or one of the parks around town.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, New Bern is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Acapulco de Juarez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

New Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town's charm and quaint parks make this a nice weekend getaway. There are outdoor activities and the Tryon Palace which is nice to visit. There are also local restaurants around town.

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

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place for its public transit. However, New Bern is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Acapulco de Juarez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Public transit is quite limited in New Bern. There's no real public transit in the area.


Is Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez
New Bern

Acapulco de Juarez and New Bern both are notable when exploring on foot.

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.

New Bern is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable and nice to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in New Bern or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Acapulco de Juarez than New Bern because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Acapulco de Juarez, and 1-2 days is enough time in New Bern.

Families should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than New Bern. 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 New Bern. 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 New Bern 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 New Bern? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acapulco de Juarez 3-5 
    New Bern 1-2

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

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.

New Bern might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This town 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 New Bern?

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.

New Bern is a popular place to visit. Even though New Bern is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that New Bern has to offer.


Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

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.

Since New Bern is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 New Bern?

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.

New Bern 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, New Bern or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

  • Acapulco de Juarez Prices
    Mexico Prices
    New Bern Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Acapulco de Juarez $90
    New Bern $169

The average daily cost (per person) in Acapulco de Juarez is $90, while the average daily cost in New Bern is $169. 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 New Bern in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acapulco de Juarez $35
    New Bern $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acapulco de Juarez $70
    New Bern $152
Compare Hotels in Acapulco de Juarez and New Bern

Looking for a hotel in Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern? 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 New Bern


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 New Bern Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acapulco de Juarez $14
    New Bern $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Acapulco de Juarez

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Acapulco de Juarez:

  • Private - One Way or Round Trip Airport Transfer: $66
  • Acapulco Airport (ACA) to Acapulco hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $45
  • Acapulco Airport Roundtrip Transfers: $65
  • Acapulco Private Airport Transfer (ACA) - City: $23
  • Acapulco Private Transfer from City - Airport (ACA): $23
  • Acapulco hotels to Acapulco Airport (ACA) – Departure Private Transfer : $45
  • Private Airport Transfer &on 2nd Day 4Hr TourAll AttractionsCombo: $90
  • Roundtrip Private Airport Transfer Acapulco (ACA) - City: $45
  • Shared transfer from Acapulco Airport (ACA) - Acapulco: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

Prices for flights to both New Bern 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 $44
    New Bern $70

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.

  • Cliff Divers Exhibition 2 Drinks + Tacos al Pastor Dinner & Beer: $55
  • Lucha Libre-Wrestling FiestaExper Taco Dinner Beer ONLY SUNDAYS: $62
  • High Divers DeLuxe Three Course Dinner + Two Drinks plus SUNSET: $66
  • Wrestling-Lucha Libre Experience Tacos Beer Dinner Only On SUNDAY: $74
  • Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour with a Professional Chef: $100
  • Mexican Fiesta Show & Dinner: $115
  • Bella Vista PRIVATE Al Fresco 3 Course Dinner Cliff Diver3Drinks: $191
  • Super DeLuxe Bella Vista Dinner &1 Drink +2 Drinks at CliffDivers: $253
  • Off the Beaten Path Mexican Cooking Class Lagoon Boatride &Lunch: $286

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acapulco de Juarez $16
    New Bern $26

Tours and Activities in Acapulco de Juarez

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

  • Kayaks Tour to El Morro Islet: $26
  • Night Tour: $50
  • Small-Group or Private All Inclusive 4 Hours City Tour & Divers: $53
  • Acapulco Port Tour in 4 hours: $55
  • Different Faces Of Acapulco Tour: $55
  • 4hr Fun Guide Tour For Cruisers or Hotels Guests with Divers Show: $58
  • 4Hrs City Tour Exclusively for Hotels, Divers, Chapel & Mural.: $60
  • Acapulco City Tour: $60
  • Acapulco Historical Tour with Cliff Divers Show: $65
  • Tour Isla de la Roqueta Stand up paddle Acapulco: $66
  • City Tour & Sunset High Cliff Divers by Night w/Different Choices: $67
  • 4 Hrs Exclusive to Cruise Ship Passengers Sightseeing Experience : $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acapulco de Juarez $9.59
    New Bern $30


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


Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern?

Acapulco de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of New Bern. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and New Bern, 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 New Bern?

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 Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern in the Summer?

Both New Bern and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to New Bern this time of year.

In the summer, Acapulco de Juarez is around the same temperature as New Bern. Typically, the summer temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in July average around 29°C (83°F), and New Bern averages at about 80°F (27°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in New Bern. It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. In July, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than New Bern. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while New Bern receives 6.6 inches (169 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acapulco de Juarez 29°C (83°F) 
    New Bern 80°F (27°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern in the Autumn?

Both New Bern and Acapulco de Juarez during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to New Bern for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Acapulco de Juarez is generally much warmer than New Bern. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 28°C (83°F), and New Bern fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in October than New Bern. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while New Bern receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acapulco de Juarez 28°C (83°F) 
    New Bern 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and New Bern. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to New Bern in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than New Bern in the winter. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and New Bern fluctuates around 44°F (7°C).

New Bern receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than New Bern. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while New Bern receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acapulco de Juarez 26°C (79°F) 
    New Bern 44°F (7°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or New Bern in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as New Bern. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the spring for the beaches. Additionally, most visitors come to New Bern for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than New Bern. Typically, the spring temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in April average around 27°C (81°F), and New Bern averages at about 62°F (16°C).

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in April than New Bern. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while New Bern receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acapulco de Juarez 27°C (81°F) 
    New Bern 62°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for New Bern and Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez New Bern
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 44°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)
Feb 26°C (80°F) 1 mm (0 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Mar 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 54°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 62°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 28°C (82°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 69°F (21°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Jun 29°C (83°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 76°F (25°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 209 mm (8.2 in) 80°F (27°C) 6.6 inches (169 mm)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 312 mm (12.3 in) 79°F (26°C) 7.6 inches (192 mm)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 341 mm (13.4 in) 75°F (24°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 65°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Nov 28°C (82°F) 50 mm (2 in) 56°F (13°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 48°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)