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

Should you visit Cozumel or Marathon?

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 Marathon 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Cozumel and Marathon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Marathon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Marathon are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Marathon and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Cozumel different from Marathon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Cozumel and Marathon offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Cozumel for the nightlife scene. 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cozumel and Marathon.

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.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Marathon?

Cozumel is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Marathon.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Marathon are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Cozumel or Marathon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cozumel or Marathon 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, Marathon is not a good destination 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 Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Cozumel or Marathon a more walkable city?

Cozumel is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination 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.

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Marathon or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Marathon?

Both Cozumel and Marathon 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 Marathon. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Marathon. 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 Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon?

The island of Cozumel 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.

In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island 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 Marathon?

Cozumel 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.

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Marathon?

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

Marathon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marathon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Marathon?

Cozumel 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 Cozumel has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Marathon?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Marathon, 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.