A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Key Largo for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Key Largo?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Key Largo? 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 picture-perfect, scenic, and stunning town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Key Largo

Key Largo is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful island. It's a quaint destination. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling and beaches.

Playa del Carmen and Key Largo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Key Largo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Key Largo are popular destinations, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Key Largo attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Key Largo and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also well known for La Quinta Avenida. Key Largo is famous for its snorkeling and scuba diving including that around John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the artificial reef around the USS Spiegel Grove.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Key Largo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Playa del Carmen is adequate for its historical sights. However, Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Key Largo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Playa del Carmen is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Key Largo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Like the rest of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is known for its Key Lime pie and seafood. You'll find a great selection of restaurants that serve seafood dishes and options for the land-loving crew. There are even a few international restaurants to choose from.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Playa del Carmen is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Most people don't head to Key Largo specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. This area is not known for its nightlife, so you'll need to head further south if partying is your style.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Playa del Carmen is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Key Largo to choose from. Popular resorts in the area include Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection, Reefhouse Resort & Marina, and Largo Resort.

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

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Playa del Carmen is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Key Largo. Near this island you'll find some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There are private tours that head out to the reef for either snorkeling or diving. There are also shipwrecks and other fascinating spots to explore.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Key Largo offers a nice beach destination. Many of the beaches around Key Largo are man-made, but they do offer nice sand and beautiful blue water. The water is turquoise, although not as striking as further south.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for hiking. However, Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Key Largo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Key Largo?

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Playa del Carmen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Key Largo is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Playa del Carmen or Key Largo.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Key Largo is one of the most popular family destinations. This area has some of the best family-friendly snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. There's also several places where your kids can interact with dolphins or experience wildlife. If you want to get out on the water, there's kayaking, sunset cruises, and glass bottom boats, all of which are great for the whole family.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Key Largo is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Playa del Carmen is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Key Largo is a nice destination for couples. Most couples head further down the Florida Keys, but for snorkeling and scuba diving, Key Largo is the better option. You'll also find kayaking and sunset cruises that leave from the area.

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

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for backpackers.

Playa del Carmen is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Key Largo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This area is a bit more affordable than the more southern keys so it appeals to budget travelers and backpackers.

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

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Key Largo. There's no real public transit around the island and you must have a car to get around.

Is Playa del Carmen or Key Largo a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Key Largo is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Key Largo is not a walkable town. It is a sprawling area that spreads out along a main highway that is not pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Key Largo or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Key Largo?

Both Playa del Carmen and Key Largo 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 Key Largo. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 5-7 days is enough time in Key Largo.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Key Largo. 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 Key Largo. 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 Key Largo 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 Key Largo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Playa del Carmen. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed destination of Key Largo. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Key Largo?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling around the peaceful island of Key Largo. 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 Key Largo?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic town of Playa del Carmen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Key Largo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Key Largo?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Key Largo is a great place to explore. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Key Largo?

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

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 Playa del Carmen or Key Largo in the Summer?

Both Key Largo and Playa del Carmen during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Key Largo for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Key Largo in the summer. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Key Largo fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

In Key Largo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the summer, Playa del Carmen often gets less sunshine than Key Largo. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key Largo receives 316 hours of full sun.

Key Largo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Key Largo. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Key Largo receives 5.9 inches (149 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Key Largo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Key Largo. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Key Largo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Playa del Carmen in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Key Largo averages at about 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Key Largo this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Key Largo during autumn. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Key Largo receives 275 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Key Largo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Key Largo. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Key Largo receives 5.6 inches (143 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Key Largo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Key Largo. The winter months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the cuisine are the main draw to Key Largo this time of year.

In January, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Key Largo. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 23°C (73°F), and Key Largo fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Key Largo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the winter, Playa del Carmen often gets less sunshine than Key Largo. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Key Largo receives 243 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Key Largo. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Key Largo receives 2.2 inches (55 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Key Largo in the Spring?

Both Key Largo and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Key Largo for the beaches.

Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Key Largo in the spring. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Key Largo fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Key Largo. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Key Largo during spring. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Key Largo receives 300 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Key Largo. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Key Largo receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Key Largo and Playa del Carmen