A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. Key West for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Cancun or Key West?

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 Key West can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Key West

Key West is a quirky, eclectic, and bustling town. This is a charming small with plenty of 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cancun and Key West: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Key West?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cancun than Key West, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cancun is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Key West is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cancun is well known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Also, Cancun is famous for . Key West is well known for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S.

How is Cancun different from Key West?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cancun is notable for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Cancun offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cancun or Key West? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Cancun and Key West.

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Key West area. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, be the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Cancun is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Resorts?

Cancun is renowned for its resorts. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cancun is a great choice. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Key West. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cancun a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Beaches?

Cancun is renowned for the beache. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cancun. 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.

Key West is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for its Old Town?

Key West is a very popular place for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Key West. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Hiking?

Cancun is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

Cancun is a good destination for hiking. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Key West?

Cancun is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Cancun offers some nice shopping areas. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Families?

Cancun is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cancun is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Key West. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Couples?

Cancun is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Cancun makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is notable for backpackers. However, Key West is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cancun is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Key West is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Key West is a pretty expensive destination, but there are Airbnbs and even a hostel or two that cater to budget backpackers.

Is Cancun or Key West Better for Students?

Key West is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cancun is not popular with students.

Key West is very popular with students. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Cancun is not popular with students.

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

Cancun is a popular place for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Cancun has a few public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Cancun or Key West a more walkable city?

Cancun is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Key West is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Key West is a somewhat walkable city. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Key West Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Key West or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Key West?

Both Cancun and Key West 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 Key West. In general, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key West.

Families should spend more time in Cancun than Key West. 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 Key West. 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 Key West 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 Key West?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Key West. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Key West?

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.

Key West 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 Key West?

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 Key West. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Key West?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the bustling destination of Key West. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Key West?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Cancun and Key West, 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.