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

Should you visit Cozumel or Naples?

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

Cozumel

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

Naples

Naples is a relaxing, peaceful, and nature-filled beach town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Cozumel and Naples: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Naples?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cozumel than Naples, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cozumel is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Naples is more popular for its food and hiking. Cozumel is more touristy than Naples and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Naples is well known for its white sand, blue water, water sports, and golf resorts.

How is Cozumel different from Naples?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Cozumel or Naples.

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.

Naples offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. While most visitors spend most of their time at the beach, on a rainy day you can check out the town's art museums, history museums, or local spots such as the Palm Cottage.

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

Naples is a great beach town 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 Naples. Seafood is a favorite around town, but you'll also find plenty of Italian food. Everything from casual to fine dining is available with many local favorites to choose from.

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 Naples Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Cozumel has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Naples has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are live music venues, cocktail bars, and dance clubs around town.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cozumel and Naples.

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.

Naples is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly hotels, and a range of prices to choose from. Most have pools and many have oceanfront views with golf facilities available. Many of the major brands such as Marriott are found here.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Cozumel is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Naples. Snorkeling and scuba diving are both available in the area, in part because of the impressive artificial reefs that have been constructed. Snorkeling is available at Tigertail Beach, Clam Pass, and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Beaches?

Cozumel and Naples are amazing choices for a beach vacation.

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.

The beaches in Naples are among the best in the world. White sand beaches and calm Gulf waters make this an ideal beach destination. Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is a favorite beach spot in the area, but you should also check out Naples Municipal Beach which is where you'll find the Naples Pier. If you want a more natural setting, head to Barefoot Beach Preserve County Park.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Hiking?

Naples is very good for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Naples. The area is filled with state parks and nature reserves where you can explore and enjoy a scenic hike. There are also greenways and coastal paths nearby.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Naples?

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Naples is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping centers, outlet malls, and plenty of retail space around town. Some of the favorite shopping spots are the Mercato, Coastland Center, and Waterside Shops. For souvenirs and beach items head to Tin City Waterfront Shops.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Naples.

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.

Naples is a very kid-friendly island. You'll find relaxing beaches, nice parks, plenty of playgrounds, and even the Golisano Childrens Museum for rainy days. There are also nature centers with great walks as well as gardens and wildlife viewpoints.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Naples are superb 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.

Naples is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and relaxing spas make this a favorite couples destination. Golf, high end restaurants and plenty of romantic activities will ensure you have the anniversary trip or honeymoon to remember.

Is Cozumel or Naples Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cozumel. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Plenty of backpackers visit Naples. There's a hostel or two in the area as well as cheaper accommodation than other parts of Florida.

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

Cozumel and Naples both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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 generally limited in Naples. There's a trolley system as well as a public bus system.

Is Cozumel or Naples a more walkable city?

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Naples is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Naples is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is relatively walkable, but to fully explore the region you'll need your own car.

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

Should I spend more time in Naples or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Naples?

In either Cozumel or Naples, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than Naples because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-5 days is enough time in Naples.

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cozumel. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Naples, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This beach town 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 Naples?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Naples, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Naples has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Naples?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cozumel. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Naples 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 Naples has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Naples?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active destination of Cozumel. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Naples. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Naples. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Naples?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Naples. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Naples, 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.