A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Nightlife, Couples, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? 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 beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Acapulco de Juarez travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a remote, local, and authentic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and food. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Acapulco de Juarez and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Acapulco de Juarez than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Acapulco de Juarez is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Acapulco de Juarez is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is well known for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Acapulco de Juarez is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Acapulco de Juarez offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Acapulco de Juarez and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez is very popular for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Acapulco de Juarez is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is very popular for its resorts. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Acapulco de Juarez is a perfect choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's great scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Acapulco de Juarez and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Acapulco de Juarez and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are great 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Acapulco de Juarez is very good for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great destination for 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is very popular for romance. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Acapulco de Juarez 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Acapulco de Juarez and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

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.

While Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) a more walkable city?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

It's fun to spend time in either Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Families should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Acapulco de Juarez, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this built-up destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the local destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). This town 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Acapulco de Juarez, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this city offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Acapulco de Juarez has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acapulco de Juarez and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Acapulco de Juarez is in North America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.