A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Saint Simons for Nightlife, Resorts, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons? 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.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a scenic, relaxing, and laid back island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and food.

Acapulco de Juarez and Saint Simons: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Acapulco de Juarez than Saint Simons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Acapulco de Juarez is better known for its nightlife, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling, while Saint Simons is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Acapulco de Juarez is well 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. Saint Simons is well known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Saint Simons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons.

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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.

Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons is an experience not to be missed. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

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 Saint Simons Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options 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.

Saint Simons doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its resorts. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Simons makes a nice vacation spot. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

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

Acapulco de Juarez is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Acapulco de Juarez and Saint Simons are high quality 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.

Saint Simons is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

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 Saint Simons Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons.

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.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

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

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options 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 Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez and Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Simons or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

It's fun to spend time in either Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons.

Families should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Saint Simons. 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 Saint Simons. 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.

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

In Acapulco de Juarez, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this well-known city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Saint Simons might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Saint Simons?

Acapulco de Juarez 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. 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.

Saint Simons is a popular place to visit. Even though Saint Simons is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Saint Simons has to offer.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

In Acapulco de Juarez, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this vibrant destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Since Saint Simons is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Saint Simons?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint Simons is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons?

Acapulco de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and Saint Simons, 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 Saint Simons?

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 Saint Simons in the Summer?

Both Saint Simons 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 beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year.

In the summer, Acapulco de Juarez is around the same temperature as Saint Simons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Saint Simons averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less sunshine than Saint Simons during summer. Acapulco de Juarez gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 286 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. It's quite rainy in Acapulco de Juarez. In July, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Saint Simons. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons in the Autumn?

Both Saint Simons 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. Also, many travelers come to Saint Simons for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Acapulco de Juarez is generally a little warmer than Saint Simons. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 28°C (83°F), and Saint Simons fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. In the autumn, Acapulco de Juarez often gets more sunshine than Saint Simons. Acapulco de Juarez gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 214 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in October than Saint Simons. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons in the Winter?

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

Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Saint Simons in the winter. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Saint Simons fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more sunshine than Saint Simons during winter. Acapulco de Juarez gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Saint Simons receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Saint Simons. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Saint Simons in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Saint Simons. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Saint Simons for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Saint Simons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Saint Simons averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint Simons. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In the spring, Acapulco de Juarez often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Saint Simons. Acapulco de Juarez gets 274 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint Simons receives 285 hours of full sun.

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in April than Saint Simons. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Saint Simons receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Saint Simons and Acapulco de Juarez