A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Kennebunkport for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport?

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 Kennebunkport. 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 laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Isla Mujeres and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Kennebunkport are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Kennebunkport attracts visitors for its museums, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Isla Mujeres is famous for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also well known for the Underwater Museum of Art. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Kennebunkport can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. 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.

Kennebunkport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Isla Mujeres and Kennebunkport.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Kennebunkport. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

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

Isla Mujeres is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Isla Mujeres. 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.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport offers some nice hiking trails. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport?

Kennebunkport is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Isla Mujeres has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly island. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is very popular for romance. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its romantic activities.

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Kennebunkport is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

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

Isla Mujeres is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Isla Mujeres is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Isla Mujeres offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is generally limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Is Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres is great for its walkability. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

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

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport 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 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Kennebunkport. 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 Kennebunkport. 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 Kennebunkport 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 Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic destination of Isla Mujeres. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing destination of Isla Mujeres. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Kennebunkport is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Isla Mujeres. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 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 Isla Mujeres and Kennebunkport, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. And not only is Isla Mujeres much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Isla Mujeres would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Isla Mujeres 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 Kennebunkport would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kennebunkport than you might in Isla Mujeres.

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 Kennebunkport Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Kennebunkport?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Kennebunkport, 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.