A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Islamorada for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cozumel or Islamorada?

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 Islamorada can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a adventurous, relaxing, and tropical village. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Cozumel and Islamorada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Islamorada?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Islamorada are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Islamorada is known for its food and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Islamorada and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Islamorada is popular for its sportfishing, state parks, and local vibe.

How is Cozumel different from Islamorada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Cozumel or Islamorada.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Islamorada offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a variety of museums and aquariums in the area such as the History of Diving Museum, the Keys History and Discovery Center, and the famous Theater of the Sea.

Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Islamorada? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Islamorada is a great village for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Islamorada. Has a sports fishing destination, you'll find no shortage of seafood options in the area. There are cafes and bistros that have an old school Florida Key's atmosphere. Popular dishes include grilled fish and curry seafood.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cozumel. 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.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is a great island for nightlife. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Islamorada. The nightlife consists of mostly bars and restaurants that serve cocktails and frozen drinks. There are sports bars and casual eateries where you can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is a great island for its luxury resorts. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its resorts.

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Islamorada makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find plenty of resorts with spas, pools or oceanfront views in the area.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Cozumel specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Islamorada. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and dive trips to the surrounding areas. You could also grab a mask and head out into the water on your own. You're sure to see some beautiful marine life.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is renowned for its beaches. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for the beache.

The beaches in Cozumel are among the best in the world. 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.

The beaches at Islamorada attract visitors from all over. Blue water and white sand make the beaches a true paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Anne's Beach, which has a boardwalk and mangroves, Library Beach, which is small and well maintained, Holiday Isle Beach, which is near the hotels and restaurants, and Long Key State Park, which has camping and picnic spots.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Islamorada?

Cozumel is a great island for shopping. Also, Islamorada is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Islamorada offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a few jewelry boutiques as well as sporting goods shops and souvenir stands.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Families?

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Islamorada is one of the most popular family destinations. Theater of the Sea is a highlight for kids and adults alike. You'll have the opportunity to interact with many types of sea life including dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks. Founders Park is another great place to take the kids. You can have a picnic, hang out at the beach, or hit up the playground. There's also plenty of snorkeling and diving in the area, particularly around Alligator Reef Lighthouse.

Cozumel is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Couples?

Islamorada is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Islamorada has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy the resorts, spas, beaches, and adventures in the area. Head to Little Palm Spa for a little relaxation or hit up Florida Keys Brewing Company for some live music. There's also snorkeling, diving, and some good restaurants nearby as well.

Cozumel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Islamorada is not known for backpackers.

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.

Islamorada is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels on this key and prices in general can be a bit high so backpackers will find it a bit challenging.

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

Cozumel is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Islamorada 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 Islamorada. There's no real public transit in the area and you must have your own vehicle.

Is Cozumel or Islamorada a more walkable city?

Cozumel is a great island for its walkability. However, Islamorada is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Islamorada is not a walkable island. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, it's not very walkable and you'll need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Islamorada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Islamorada or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Islamorada?

Both Cozumel and Islamorada have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cozumel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cozumel than Islamorada. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 4-7 days is enough time in Islamorada.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cozumel than Islamorada. 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 Islamorada 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.

One day in Cozumel or Islamorada?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic island of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Islamorada, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This village 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 Islamorada?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Cozumel, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Islamorada, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cozumel or Islamorada?

Cozumel, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Islamorada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Islamorada has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Islamorada?

Cozumel is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Islamorada. In Islamorada, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, 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 Cozumel and Islamorada, we can see that Islamorada 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 Islamorada would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Islamorada 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 Islamorada Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Islamorada?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Islamorada. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Islamorada, 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.