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

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

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

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

Monterey

Monterey is a nature-oriented, laid back, and relaxing city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Playa del Carmen and Monterey: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Monterey are popular destinations, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Monterey attracts visitors for its museums, food, and shopping. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Monterey and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also well known for La Quinta Avenida. Monterey is famous for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and excellent seafood.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Monterey?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Monterey is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Monterey offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a not-to-be-missed destination in town. You can also visit the Monterey State Historic Park or the Monterey Museum of Art.

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.

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

Monterey is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Monterey is an experience not to be missed. Seafood and local produce are what make the food special. There are many great restaurants to you can choose from that will let you enjoy the classic seafood dishes like clam chowder or oysters, as well as fresh artichokes and local wine.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. 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.

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Playa del Carmen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Monterey is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a buzzing atmosphere at night with bars, breweries, and casual eateries all coming to life. Some of the best venues are found at the Old Fisherman's Wharf and along Alvarado Street.

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Monterey is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Playa del Carmen for its luxury resorts. 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.

Monterey is not a resort destination.

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

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen. 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.

Monterey has a few good snorkeling spots. Scuba diving offers an unforgettable experience. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary gives you the unique experience of seeing sea lions, otters, kelp forests, crabs, and more.

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for the beach. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Playa del Carmen offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Monterey is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches highlight the laid by California vibe with sunbathers and beachgoers soaking up the atmosphere. There are both inlets and sandy beaches where you can see sea lions or explore the tidal pools.

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen offers some nice hiking trails. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Monterey is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

Monterey is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Monterey. You'll find both local vendors and tourist shops around town. Cannery Row is a popular destination, as is Old Fisherman's Wharf and the Old Farmer's Market.

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey Better for Families?

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

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.

Monterey is one of the most popular family destinations. Monterey Bay Aquarium is a highlight for kids and adults alike. There's also the Monterey Zoo as well as lighthearted activities like a mirror maze. MY Museum is an interactive museum that's perfect for younger kids. There are also whale watching trips and nearby beaches.

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Playa del Carmen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Couples visit Monterey frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic inns in town as well as quaint restaurants and fun activities. There are also spas, wine bars, and plenty of shopping for couples to enjoy as well.

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

Playa del Carmen and Monterey are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Playa del Carmen. 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.

Monterey is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's a hostel in town as well as fun activities that will appeal to backpackers.

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

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Monterey is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Monterey. There is a bus system through the area.

Is Playa del Carmen or Monterey a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Monterey is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Monterey is very walkable. If you stay near the town center, it's very walkable and easy to get around on foot.

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

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

How long in Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Playa del Carmen and Monterey. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Monterey. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monterey.

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

The beautiful town of Playa del Carmen offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing destination of Monterey. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the nature-oriented city of Monterey. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

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

Monterey is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Monterey is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Monterey?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 79% larger than the population of Monterey. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Monterey, 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 Monterey?

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 Monterey in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Monterey. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Monterey because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Monterey in the summer. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Monterey fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in July than Monterey. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Monterey and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Monterey this time of year.

In the autumn, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Monterey. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Playa del Carmen in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Monterey averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Monterey. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 0.6 inches (14 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 Monterey in the Winter?

Both Monterey and Playa del Carmen during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Monterey for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Monterey. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 23°C (73°F), and Monterey fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Monterey. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Monterey. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Monterey in the spring for the beaches.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Monterey in the spring. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Monterey fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Monterey. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Monterey receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Typical Weather for Monterey and Playa del Carmen