A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Cape Cod for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cancun or Cape Cod?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Cape Cod can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a wild, party-hard, and tropical city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing beach destination. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cancun and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Cape Cod?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Cape Cod are both popular with visitors, Cancun has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cancun is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Cape Cod is known for its food, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cancun is more touristy than Cape Cod and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also home to . Cape Cod is popular for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Cancun different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cape Cod and Cancun. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cancun or Cape Cod?

Cancun is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cancun. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cancun or Cape Cod? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Cape Cod has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cancun area. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Cancun is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Cancun for its luxury resorts. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Cape Cod is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its beaches.

Cancun offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

You'll find good hiking in both Cancun and Cape Cod.

Many people include a hike when visiting Cancun. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Cape Cod has hiking trails worth exploring. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Cape Cod is well-known for its shopping. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Many visitors go to Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cancun is very family-friendly. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Cape Cod is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Cancun is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for romance.

Cancun is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Cape Cod is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cancun. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cancun is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Cancun offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Public transit is generally limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Is Cancun or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Cancun is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

Cancun is a very walkable destination. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Cape Cod?

Both Cancun and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cancun has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cancun than Cape Cod. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cancun than Cape Cod. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cancun that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun than Cape Cod 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 Cancun.

One day in Cancun or Cape Cod?

The beautiful city of Cancun offers museums and nightlife. 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.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Cancun or Cape Cod?

Cancun 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.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cancun or Cape Cod?

Cancun is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cancun, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Cape Cod?

Cancun is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cancun has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cancun Expensive? and Is Cape Cod Expensive?.