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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Jacksonville? 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a fun, vibrant, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Mazatlan and Jacksonville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Mazatlan, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Jacksonville is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mazatlan is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and historical sights. Mazatlan is more touristy than Jacksonville and is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. Jacksonville is popular for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. It is also home to Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Mazatlan different from Jacksonville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Jacksonville specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

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

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Jacksonville is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Mazatlan and Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville Beach.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Jacksonville is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Jacksonville.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Mazatlan. 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.

Jacksonville offers lots of family activities. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Jacksonville make for a good place to visit.

Mazatlan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Jacksonville is a good city for couples to visit. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville Better for Students?

Jacksonville is a popular place for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Jacksonville is popular with students. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville.

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 Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

Is Mazatlan or Jacksonville a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Jacksonville is somewhat walkable. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Jacksonville or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Jacksonville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Jacksonville. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Jacksonville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville?

In Mazatlan, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

The city of Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville?

Mazatlan is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Jacksonville is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Jacksonville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

In Mazatlan, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this authentic destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Jacksonville is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

Mazatlan is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Jacksonville 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 city 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Jacksonville, we can see that Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Jacksonville?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Jacksonville, 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 Jacksonville?

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 Jacksonville in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Jacksonville. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Jacksonville averages at about 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jacksonville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the summer, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Jacksonville. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 286 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Jacksonville. Mazatlan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Jacksonville. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Jacksonville in the Autumn?

Both Jacksonville 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 city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year.

In October, Mazatlan is generally a little warmer than Jacksonville. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Jacksonville fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Jacksonville during autumn. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 214 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Jacksonville. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Jacksonville.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Jacksonville in the Winter?

Both Jacksonville 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Jacksonville for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Jacksonville in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Jacksonville fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the winter, Mazatlan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jacksonville. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jacksonville receives 191 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Jacksonville. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Jacksonville in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Jacksonville. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Jacksonville in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Mazatlan is a little warmer than Jacksonville. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Jacksonville averages at about 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Jacksonville during spring. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Jacksonville receives 285 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Jacksonville. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Jacksonville receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Jacksonville and Mazatlan