A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Cape Canaveral for Attractions, Families, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ensenada or Cape Canaveral? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a outdoorsy, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a unique, iconic, and fascinating town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Ensenada and Cape Canaveral: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cape Canaveral. Although Ensenada and Cape Canaveral are both popular with visitors, Cape Canaveral has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cape Canaveral is more popular for its museums, resorts, and beaches, while Ensenada is known for its food and nightlife. Ensenada is popular for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports. Cape Canaveral is popular for being the location of the Kennedy Space Center and at the heart of space exploration in the United States. It is also home to The Kennedy Space Center.

How is Ensenada different from Cape Canaveral?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Cape Canaveral are among the most recognizable in the world. The area has become synonymous with the Kennedy Space Center. Visitors head to the Space Coast to see the museums, learn about the space program, or possibly even see a rocket launch. The attractions are world class and offer a truly unique glimpse into the evolution of space travel.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ensenada. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.


Is the Food Better in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Ensenada is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cape Canaveral is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ensenada has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Cape Canaveral offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's a small town but there's no shortage of excellent seafood in the area. Many restaurants have outdoor seating and patios that let you take advantage of the Florida sunshine. You'll find crab, mussels, shrimp, and clams on many menus around town.

Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Nightlife?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Ensenada is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Ensenada has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

Most people don't head to Cape Canaveral specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The area isn't known for its nightlife scene, but there are enough places that you can go out for a good meal and drink.

Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Resorts?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for its resorts. However, Ensenada is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Cape Canaveral makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of resorts in the area that attract visitors. Some of the most popular are the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Resort and the Radisson Resort.

Ensenada is not a resort destination.


Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Beaches?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a popular place for the beache. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for the beach.

Cape Canaveral is a good option for a beach vacation. You'll likely want to head to the Cocoa Beach area for the best beaches. Jetty Park Beach and Pier is one of the most popular nearby areas for fishing and camping, but visitors must purchase a pass. Other popular beaches include Playalinda Beach and Cherie Down Park.

The beach in Ensenada is worth checking out. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cape Canaveral and Ensenada.

Ensenada offers some nice shopping areas. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Cape Canaveral has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are some nice local shopping areas around town. For a little retail therapy, head to Banana River Square, White Rose Shopping Center, or Belair Courtyard.

Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Families?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cape Canaveral is a very family-friendly destination. What sets this area apart is the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. There are many kid-friendly activities that outer space enthusiasts will love. Planet Play is a highlight, and if your timing is right, you might even see a rocket launch. In addition to the Kennedy Space Center, the area is a quintessential beach town. There are parks and outdoor areas as well as places where kids can interact with animals.

Ensenada offers lots of family activities. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.


Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Couples?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cape Canaveral frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful Florida beaches, combined with the unique opportunity to visit the Kennedy Space Center, make this a fascinating couple's destination. There are also many nice restaurants and great places to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.

Ensenada is a good city for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Ensenada is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

Cape Canaveral is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You won't find any hostels in the area, but you may have some luck finding affordable accommodation nearby.

Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Ensenada is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cape Canaveral. There are very limited public transportation options, but there are a few shuttle buses and SCAT (the Space Coast Area Transit). Route 9 travels from Cocoa to Port Canaveral with service available Monday through Saturday.


Is Ensenada or Cape Canaveral a more walkable city?

Ensenada
Cape Canaveral

Ensenada is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Cape Canaveral is not known for its walkability.

Ensenada is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Cape Canaveral is not a walkable city. It's not a walkable area, which can be particularly challenging if you're arriving by cruise ship.

For even more information, also check out Is Ensenada Worth Visiting? and Is Cape Canaveral Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cape Canaveral or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ensenada and Cape Canaveral. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cape Canaveral.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ensenada than Cape Canaveral 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 Ensenada.


  • How many days in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ensenada 2-3 
    Cape Canaveral 1-3

One day in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

In Ensenada, you'll find museums and nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The town of Cape Canaveral offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Ensenada is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Cape Canaveral is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cape Canaveral, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ensenada. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cape Canaveral is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Ensenada. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Cape Canaveral is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Canaveral or Ensenada?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ensenada is $99, while the average daily cost in Cape Canaveral is $220. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ensenada and Cape Canaveral in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ensenada $47
    Cape Canaveral $155
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ensenada $94
    Cape Canaveral $310
Compare Hotels in Ensenada and Cape Canaveral

Looking for a hotel in Ensenada or Cape Canaveral? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ensenada


Hotels in Cape Canaveral


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ensenada Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ensenada $21
    Cape Canaveral $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ensenada

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ensenada:

  • Transfer: From Tijuana to Valle de Guadalupe & Ensenada: $408
  • Border and Tijuana Airport Transfers to Ensenada or Valle de Guadalupe: $120

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cape Canaveral

Also for Cape Canaveral, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Port Canaveral to Orlando Airport MCO and Hotels Private Transfer: $195
  • Private Van Transfer from Port Canaveral,Cocoa Beach to MCO: $70
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO) - Departure Private Transfer: $84
  • Canaveral Cruise Port to Orlando Airport (MCO)-Departure Transfer: $84
  • One Way MCO Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Private Transfer: $85
  • Orlando Airport to/from Port Canaveral Sedan Transfer up to 3 pax: $145
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Altamonte Springs: $246
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Celebration: $247
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Melbourne: $216
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to New Smyrna Beach: $239
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Ocoee: $254
  • Private Transfer from Port Canaveral to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $282

Is it cheaper to fly into Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Prices for flights to both Cape Canaveral and Ensenada change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ensenada $39
    Cape Canaveral $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cape Canaveral

For Cape Canaveral, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Port Canaveral Food Tours : $125

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ensenada $11
    Cape Canaveral $17

Tours and Activities in Ensenada

Here are a few actual costs in Ensenada for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 8 Hour Private Tour : $131
  • ATV Off-Road Adventure through Valle de Guadalupe + Winery Visit: $77
  • Adventure in Ensenada with Zipline, Marine Geyser and Shops: $99
  • Bike and wine amazing Adventure in Valle de Guadalupe": $130
  • City tour on electric horse wagon.: $58
  • Couple Tour: $125
  • Electric Motorcycle Tour and rental.: $140
  • Ensenada : The unique bufadora private tour: $39
  • Ensenada Shore Excursion: Blowhole and La Bufadora Tour with Horseback Riding: $81
  • Ensenada Taco Tour by local guide: $94
  • A thrilled family adventure of ziplines: $70
  • Mezcal, Tequila, Ceviches and shoping Tasting Tour: $70

Tours and Activities in Cape Canaveral

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Canaveral.

  • Wizard of OZ Museum tour: $30
  • Wizard of Oz Museum Entry Ticket: $32
  • Self-Guided Kayaking Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $55
  • Cocoa Beach Aerial Adventures ticket: $58
  • Two Hour Bioluminescence Kayak Tour Near Orlando: $60
  • Dolphin & Manatee Kayaking Tour in Orlando Area: $65
  • Cape Canaveral Private Surf Lesson with Experienced Instructor: $70
  • Fully Guided Kayaking Backwater Manatee and Dolphin Tour: $75
  • Victory Cruises Casino Luxury Transportation: $75
  • Cocoa Beach Night Time Bioluminescence Kayak Tour: $79
  • SUP Paddleboard Lesson and Tour - Port Canaveral & Cocoa Beach: $95
  • Wizard of OZ Museum Ticket with Guided Tour by the Owner: $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ensenada $11
    Cape Canaveral $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Ensenada

Also in Ensenada, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience in Maglén: $29
  • Xecue Wine Tasting in the Guadalupe Valley: $39
  • Wine tour valley of guadalupe: $60
  • Valle de Guadalupe Wine Tasting Tour: $78
  • From Wine Tasting at Guadalupe Valley Ensenada: $87
  • From Ojos Negros Valley Cheese & Wine Tasting Tour: $97
  • Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $115
  • Private Wine Tour at Valle de Guadalupe (A wine tasting included).: $119
  • wine tours and driver service through valle de guadalupe, Ensenada B.C. Mexico: $135
  • Wine tasting tour for Cruise Ship Visitors. All Inclusive!: $199
  • Private and custom group Wine tour Valle de Guadalupe : $220
  • Valle Experience by Ansell Wine Tours: $269


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ensenada and Cape Canaveral, we can see that Cape Canaveral is more expensive. And not only is Ensenada much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ensenada would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ensenada 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 Cape Canaveral would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cape Canaveral than you might in Ensenada.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ensenada Expensive? and Is Cape Canaveral Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Cape Canaveral?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cape Canaveral. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada and Cape Canaveral, 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.