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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

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 Sedona. 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. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Sedona

Sedona is a desert, dramatic, and scenic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Isla Mujeres and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sedona than Isla Mujeres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sedona is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Isla Mujeres is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Isla Mujeres is well known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Sedona is well known for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Also, Sedona is famous for Red Rock Crossing Park.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sedona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

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 Sedona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Sedona 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.

Sedona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Isla Mujeres and Sedona.

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 Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Sedona 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 Sedona. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

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

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Sedona is a good destination for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Sedona to see the old town. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona Better for Hiking?

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

Sedona is a popular spot for hiking. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

Sedona is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Sedona make it a world-class shopping destination. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sedona 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.

Sedona is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres and Sedona both amazing 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.

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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

Isla Mujeres is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

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

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona 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, Sedona 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Sedona a more walkable city?

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

Sedona is a somewhat walkable island. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

In either Isla Mujeres or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than Isla Mujeres because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Isla Mujeres. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Sedona?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sedona might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Isla Mujeres. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sedona 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 United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Sedona, we can see that Sedona is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Sedona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Sedona?

Isla Mujeres has a larger population, and is about 23% larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Sedona, 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.