A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Jaco. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a relaxing, laid back, and idyllic island. Isla Mujeres offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Jaco travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Jaco are both popular with visitors, Isla Mujeres has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Isla Mujeres is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is known for its nightlife. Jaco is more touristy than Isla Mujeres and is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Isla Mujeres is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also home to the Underwater Museum of Art.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

Neither Isla Mujeres or Jaco offer quality museums and landmarks.

Isla Mujeres offers a few options for museum-goers. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Jaco. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Jaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Isla Mujeres has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Jaco is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Jaco is not a resort destination.

Isla Mujeres offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Jaco is not a resort destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Isla Mujeres specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Jaco. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches in Isla Mujeres are among the best in the world. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Jaco. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

Both Isla Mujeres and Jaco are good shopping destinations.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Jaco has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Isla Mujeres offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Isla Mujeres has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Isla Mujeres and Jaco are great destinations for backpackers.

Isla Mujeres is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Jaco. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isla Mujeres is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Isla Mujeres has some public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Isla Mujeres or Jaco a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres and Jaco both are great when exploring on foot.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable island. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Jaco is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Jaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Jaco. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Jaco due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Jaco 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 Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Isla Mujeres. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Jaco, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this touristy town offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

Isla Mujeres is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Jaco is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the relaxing destination of Isla Mujeres. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Jaco. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

The laid back island of Isla Mujeres offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Jaco is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and Jaco, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. And not only is Jaco much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Isla Mujeres is in North America and Jaco is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Jaco would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Jaco 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 Isla Mujeres would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Isla Mujeres than you might in Jaco.

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Jaco?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Jaco, 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.