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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna?

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 La Fortuna. 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 idyllic, relaxing, and laid back island. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a scenic, popular, and stunning town. The beauty of La Fortuna is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife. See La Fortuna travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Fortuna than Isla Mujeres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Fortuna is better known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Isla Mujeres is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. La Fortuna is more touristy than Isla Mujeres and is known for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. Also, La Fortuna is famous for Arenal Volcano. Isla Mujeres is well known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere.

How is Isla Mujeres different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Fortuna is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

La Fortuna offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people spend their time outdoors exploring the area, but there are also some museums that highlight local art and culture.

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 La Fortuna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

La Fortuna is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a touristy mecca, and there are a number of decent restaurants around town. The area has some of the freshest local ingredients and the food reflects that. You'll find restaurants both in the center of town and along the road between the town and the hot springs.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna.

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 La Fortuna. The larger resorts usually have a couple of bars onsite. There are also local bars and pubs throughout the town. While things often quiet down by 9:00, you will probably be able to find a laid back place to enjoy a drink with friends.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

There are terrific resorts to choose from in both Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna.

Vacationers flock to Isla Mujeres for its luxury resorts. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, La Fortuna is a great choice. There are many larger international resorts in the area. Many offer spectacular views, spas, and beautifully maintained pools that take advantage of the area's hot springs.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for the beach. However, La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

La Fortuna is a popular spot for hiking. The area is filled with stunning hikes that take you through different landscapes and ecosystems. You'll likely see some wildlife, visit spectacular waterfalls, and, of course, catch views of the impressive Arenal Volcano.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna?

Isla Mujeres is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

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.

La Fortuna has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find a couple of good souvenir shops around town where you can pick up some locally made items.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

La Fortuna is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of La Fortuna is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, lush rainforests, and dramatic views of the volcano. There are countless hikes and a plenty of opportunities to soak up the natural setting.

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.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is very family-friendly. 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 family-friendly things to do in La Fortuna. Kids will love exploring the outdoors and seeing some of Costa Rica's best environments. There are plenty of hiking trails, but if you're looking for short and simple, head to Ecocentro Danaus, which has a half mile flat walking loop and a butterfly garden. Another good option is Bogarin Trail, where you might see a sloth. And of course you have to check out Arenal Volcano National Park.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna both terrific destinations for a couple.

Isla Mujeres is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

La Fortuna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. There are amazing resorts and spas in the area that make for a truly luxurious and romantic holiday. Many couples visit for their honeymoon, and whether you enjoy exploring nature or pampering yourself in a five star setting, there really is something for everyone.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna are excellent 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 La Fortuna. As one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica, this town has a number of hostels that cater to the backpacker crowds.

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

Both Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna offer notable public transit options.

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

La Fortuna has some public transit options. There are public buses throughout the area as well as private transportation services, taxis, and car sharing.

Is Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

La Fortuna is a somewhat walkable island. While the town itself is very walkable, many of the area's attractions can only be reached by car.

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

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than La Fortuna. 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 La Fortuna. 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 La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna?

With shopping and nightlife around the relaxing island of Isla Mujeres, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isla Mujeres, one day is sufficent for most.

In La Fortuna, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this stunning town offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 La Fortuna?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Isla Mujeres, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna?

Isla Mujeres, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and nightlife around the scenic destination of La Fortuna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 La Fortuna?

Isla Mujeres is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

La Fortuna is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. And not only is La Fortuna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Isla Mujeres is in North America and La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna.

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 La Fortuna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or La Fortuna?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and La Fortuna, 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.