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

Should you visit Cancun or Monterey?

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 Monterey 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Monterey

Monterey is a relaxing, nature-oriented, and laid back city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cancun and Monterey: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Monterey?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Monterey are both popular with visitors, Cancun has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cancun is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Monterey is known for its food and shopping. Cancun is more touristy than Monterey and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also home to . Monterey is popular for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Cancun different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Cancun and Monterey.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Monterey can be an interesting and educational experience. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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

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

Monterey has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

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 Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Cancun has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Cancun or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

Is Cancun or Monterey Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Cancun or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is Cancun or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Cancun is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Cancun offers some nice hiking trails. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Monterey?

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

Monterey is well-known for its shopping. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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 Monterey Better for Families?

You'll find first-rate kid-friendly activities in either Cancun or Monterey.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Monterey is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Is Cancun or Monterey Better for Couples?

Cancun is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

Is Cancun or Monterey Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Monterey. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

Is Cancun or Monterey 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, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Cancun or Monterey a more walkable city?

Cancun and Monterey are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Monterey is a very walkable destination. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Monterey or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cancun and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Monterey. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

Families should spend more time in Cancun than Monterey. 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 Monterey. 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 Monterey 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 Monterey?

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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Monterey. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cancun or Monterey?

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.

Monterey is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cancun or Monterey?

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 Monterey. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Monterey?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back destination of Monterey. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Monterey, we can see that Monterey is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Monterey?

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