A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Everglades National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

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 Cozumel and Everglades National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a vibrant, active, and colorful island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a adventure-filled, unique, and natural national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Cozumel and Everglades National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cozumel than Everglades National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cozumel is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Everglades National Park is more popular for its hiking. Cozumel is more touristy than Everglades National Park and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Everglades National Park is well known for its unique habitats and wildlife such as the friendly manatees.

How is Cozumel different from Everglades National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Everglades National Park and Cozumel. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is very good for its historical sights. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cozumel. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Everglades National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. It's worth checking out the Museum of the Everglades, but most visitors prefer to spend their time outdoors exploring the habitats.


Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Everglades National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cozumel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

Everglades National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few casual eateries near the park. The options include taquerias and grills. You'll also find some farm fresh fruit stands on the side of the road and it's definitely worth stopping to pick up a snack.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is a great island for its evening party scene. However, Everglades National Park is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Cozumel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

People don't go to Everglades National Park for the nightlife. There are a couple of grills outside of the park, but the nightlife scene is very limited.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cozumel. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

Everglades National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel is not to be missed. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Everglades National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Everglades National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Hiking?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Everglades National Park for the hiking trails. The trails take you through a variety of habitats and range in length from short nature walks to longer, in depth hikes. Do be aware that the insects can be brutal. Mosquitos and biting flies are both common.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is a great island for its shopping areas. However, Everglades National Park is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

Everglades National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a park store, but otherwise the shopping is very limited.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Families?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cozumel. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Everglades National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. An airboat ride is a highlight for many kids. There's also hiking, kayaking, and even Junior Ranger programs. Do be on the lookout for mosquitoes, which can be relentless in the park.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is a great island for couples. Also, Everglades National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for romance.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Everglades National Park is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and enjoying a bit of nature makes for a nice romantic getaway. Go kayaking or take an airboat ride and then enjoy some time exploring the natural setting.


Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Everglades National Park are very good places to visit.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Everglades National Park is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are two drive-in campgrounds (Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground) that you can reach from the Homestead entrance to the park.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Everglades National Park. There is no real public transportation to the park so an organized tour is your best option if you don't have a vehicle.

Is Cozumel or Everglades National Park a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Everglades National Park

Cozumel is a great island for its ease of walking around. However, Everglades National Park is not known for its walkability.

Cozumel is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

Everglades National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are hiking trails, to really explore the park you'll want to have a car or take an organized tour.


For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Everglades National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Everglades National Park or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cozumel and Everglades National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Everglades National Park. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-3 days is enough time in Everglades National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel than Everglades National Park 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 Cozumel.


  • How many days in Cozumel or Everglades National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Everglades National Park 2-3

One day in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

With nightlife and food around the vibrant island of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Everglades National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the colorful destination of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Everglades National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Everglades National Park has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant island of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Everglades National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Everglades National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Everglades National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Everglades National Park or Cozumel?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $118, while the average daily cost in Everglades National Park is $146. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cozumel and Everglades National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $70
    Everglades National Park $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $140
    Everglades National Park $160
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Everglades National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Everglades National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cozumel


Hotels in Everglades National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cozumel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $23
    Everglades National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

Also for Cozumel, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cuban Cigar Master Class & Beach Break® with transfer: $153
  • Cozumel Private Airport Transfer: $150
  • Private Transfer from Cozumel Airport: $110
  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern with transfer: $93
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) Cozumel - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $87
  • Cozumel Cruise Port to Cozumel Island Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Wild Jade Cavern Private ATV Tour With Transfer: $86
  • Cozumel Island Transfers: $70
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel -Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Cozumel Cruise Port to Cozumel hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Cozumel Port to Cozumel Airport CZM Departure Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Everglades National Park?

Prices for flights to both Everglades National Park and Cozumel change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cozumel $24
    Everglades National Park $31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cozumel

For Cozumel, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Authentic Mayan Cooking Class in Cozumel: $61
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $44
    Everglades National Park $28

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cozumel.

  • Island Tour With Private Driver : $56
  • Private Cozumel Jeep Tour & Jade Caverns Cenote: All-Inclusive: $85
  • Romantic tour in Cozumel: $127
  • 1 Hour and Half Private Tropical Fitness Experience in Cozumel: $6.03
  • 15-minute Private Parasailing Experience in Cozumel: $69
  • 2 Hour Discover Mermaid Experience : $20
  • 2 Hour Diving Experience in San Miguel de Cozumel: $88
  • 4 Hour Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel: $65
  • 4 Hours Experience the turtle sanctuary on La Chula Catamarán : $78
  • 4-Hour Jeep and ATV Tour with Snorkel in Cozumel with Lunch: $99
  • A Pirate's Adventure in Cozumel with Captain Draco : $80
  • A snorkeling adventure in a glass-bottom boat at Cozumel's reef.: $70

Tours and Activities in Everglades National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Everglades National Park.

  • 2 Hour Chokoloskee Island Kayak Tour: $80
  • 4 Hour Everglades Kayak Tour: $120
  • 6 Hour Everglades Mangroves Kayak Tour: $200
  • Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours): $120
  • Everglades National Park Small Group Guided Boating & Walking Tour Expedition: $200
  • Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours: $48
  • Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park: $200
  • Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour: $200
  • Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $11
    Everglades National Park $7.86


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

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