A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Portland, Maine for Beaches, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cozumel or Portland, Maine?

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 Portland, Maine can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a lively, vibrant, and active island. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a seaside, laid-back, and scenic coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Cozumel and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Portland, Maine?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Portland, Maine are roughly the same size, Cozumel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cozumel is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Portland, Maine is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Portland, Maine and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Portland, Maine is well known for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Cozumel different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

Cozumel is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cozumel and Portland, Maine offer a number of notable 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 Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Cozumel is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is well known for its resorts. However, Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Cozumel is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Portland, Maine is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cozumel a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cozumel. 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.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Portland, Maine. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Portland, Maine?

Cozumel is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland, Maine. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is adequate for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Cozumel does not offer Christmas activities.

Portland, Maine has some seasonal activities during Christmas. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Cozumel does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Cozumel is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cozumel is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

Cozumel is well known for couples. Also, Portland, Maine is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Cozumel frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Portland, Maine is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cozumel is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

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

Cozumel is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Cozumel or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

Cozumel is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly 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.

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable island. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Portland, Maine?

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

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

The vibrant destination of Cozumel offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Portland, Maine, you'll find shopping and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal 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 Portland, Maine?

The island of Cozumel offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Cozumel or Portland, Maine?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Portland, Maine?

The active island of Cozumel offers museums and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. For many, it makes a great getaway for one week. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland, Maine. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland, Maine. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Portland, Maine?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Portland, Maine. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Portland, Maine, 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.