A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Sun Valley for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cozumel or Sun Valley?

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 Sun Valley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a scenic, lively, and vibrant island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and active town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Cozumel and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Sun Valley?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley is known for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Sun Valley and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Sun Valley is popular for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway.

How is Cozumel different from Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sun Valley and Cozumel. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cozumel or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Sun Valley is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

Sun Valley is among the world's best ski destinations. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Sun Valley?

Cozumel is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sun Valley is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

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

Sun Valley is a great 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 Sun Valley. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

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 Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Cozumel know how to have a good time. 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 Sun Valley has a few options to choose from. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

Is Cozumel or Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cozumel and Sun Valley.

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.

Sun Valley is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

Is Cozumel or Sun Valley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel. 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.

Sun Valley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Sun Valley Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is terrific for its beaches. However, Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Cozumel offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Sun Valley is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Sun Valley Better for Hiking?

Sun Valley is a great town for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Sun Valley for the hiking trails. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Sun Valley?

Cozumel is a great destination for shopping. Also, Sun Valley is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cozumel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sun Valley. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

Is Cozumel or Sun Valley Better for Families?

Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley is one of the most popular family destinations. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

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 Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Sun Valley 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, Sun Valley has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy 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 Sun Valley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Sun Valley are high quality places to visit.

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.

Sun Valley is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.

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

Sun Valley is a great town for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

Public transit in Sun Valley is fairly effecient and thorough. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

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 Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Sun Valley is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Sun Valley is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Sun Valley or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Sun Valley?

Both Cozumel and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sun Valley has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sun Valley than Cozumel. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Cozumel or Sun Valley?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant 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 Sun Valley, you'll find skiing and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This 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 Sun Valley?

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 Sun Valley, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. 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 Sun Valley?

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.

Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Sun Valley?

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 Sun Valley. In Sun Valley, you'll find shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Sun Valley?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Sun Valley. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Sun Valley, 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.