A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Destin for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Destin?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Destin? 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a scenic, stunning, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Destin

Destin is a beautiful, relaxing, and peaceful beach town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Playa del Carmen and Destin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Destin, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Destin and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Destin is well known for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Destin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Destin and Playa del Carmen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Playa del Carmen is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Playa del Carmen offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Destin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Destin can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Destin. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen is a must-see party destination. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its resorts. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect choice. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Destin is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its beaches. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for the beache.

With world-famous beaches, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Destin is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Destin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Destin and Playa del Carmen.

Many visitors go to Playa del Carmen to go shopping. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular family destinations. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Destin is very family-friendly. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for romance. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Destin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen is very good for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Playa del Carmen is very good for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is Playa del Carmen or Destin a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is terrific for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Playa del Carmen on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Destin is not a very walkable town. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.

For even more information, also check out Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Destin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Destin or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Both Playa del Carmen and Destin have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Playa del Carmen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Destin. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 5-7 days is enough time in Destin.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Destin 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Playa del Carmen. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and food around the peaceful destination of Destin. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and shopping around the peaceful beach town of Destin. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Playa del Carmen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Destin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Playa del Carmen. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Destin is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Playa del Carmen Expensive? and Is Destin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Destin, 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 Playa del Carmen or Destin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Destin in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Destin. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Destin. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Destin averages at about 82°F (28°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Destin. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Destin receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Destin in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Destin. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Destin in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Destin. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), and Destin fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Destin. Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Destin. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Destin receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Destin in the Winter?

Both Destin and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Destin for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Destin in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Destin fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Destin. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Destin receives 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Destin in the Spring?

Both Destin and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Destin because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Destin. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Destin averages at about 68°F (20°C).

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Destin. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Destin receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Destin and Playa del Carmen