A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Nantucket for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cozumel or Nantucket?

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

Cozumel

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

Nantucket

Nantucket is a upscale, charming, and serene island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cozumel and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantucket. Although Cozumel and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Nantucket has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantucket is more popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Cozumel is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Cozumel is more touristy than Nantucket and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also home to Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Cozumel different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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

Nantucket is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is a great island for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cozumel and Nantucket.

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.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

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

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is a great island for its historic old town. However, Cozumel does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Cozumel does not have a historic old town.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a great island for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nantucket for the hiking trails. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Nantucket?

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Nantucket both offer plenty of very good spots.

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.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Nantucket.

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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly island. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Cozumel or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Nantucket 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, Nantucket has plenty to offer. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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 Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Nantucket is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

While Nantucket offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

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

Is Cozumel or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Cozumel and Nantucket are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Nantucket is a very walkable island. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Cozumel or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cozumel due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel than Nantucket 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 Nantucket?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Cozumel. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Nantucket?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the lively destination of Cozumel. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nantucket has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Nantucket?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant island of Cozumel. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Nantucket is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Nantucket?

Cozumel is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cozumel, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Since Nantucket is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 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 Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket 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 Nantucket Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Nantucket?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Nantucket, 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.