A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Cocoa Beach for Families, Attractions, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach? 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a relaxing, adventurous, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach are both popular with visitors, Mazatlan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mazatlan is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and historical sights, while Cocoa Beach is known for its resorts. Cocoa Beach is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Cocoa Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Many visitors head to Cocoa Beach specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach both to be superb destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach.

Mazatlan has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

If you're looking for night time activities Cocoa Beach has a few options to choose from. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Resorts?

Cocoa Beach is a popular place for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Cocoa Beach makes a nice vacation spot. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach are superb choices.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Cocoa Beach does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cocoa Beach and Mazatlan.

Mazatlan offers some nice shopping areas. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Cocoa Beach has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Families?

Cocoa Beach is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cocoa Beach is a very family-friendly destination. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Couples?

Cocoa Beach is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cocoa Beach frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach.

You'll find some public transit in Mazatlan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses around town.

While Cocoa Beach offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Is Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Mazatlan is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable.

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Cocoa Beach Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cocoa Beach or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

In either Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mazatlan has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mazatlan than Cocoa Beach. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-5 days is enough time in Cocoa Beach.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Cocoa Beach 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Mazatlan. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beach town of Cocoa Beach offers food and shopping. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Mazatlan. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical city of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Cocoa Beach is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cocoa Beach, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Mazatlan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cocoa Beach is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This beach 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach, 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.

When is the best time to visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Cocoa Beach. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Cocoa Beach averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite rainy in Cocoa Beach. Mazatlan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Mazatlan usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Cocoa Beach. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach in the Autumn?

Both Cocoa Beach and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Cocoa Beach this time of year.

In October, Mazatlan is generally around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cocoa Beach. In October, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Cocoa Beach. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach in the Winter?

Both Cocoa Beach and Mazatlan during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Mazatlan is a little warmer than Cocoa Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Cocoa Beach. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cocoa Beach in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Cocoa Beach. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Cocoa Beach averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Cocoa Beach. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Cocoa Beach and Mazatlan