A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? 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. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a remote, local, and authentic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and food. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Playa del Carmen is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is well known for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Playa del Carmen is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its resorts. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a resort destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

Many visitors go to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its beaches. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Playa del Carmen is very good for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of great scenery and beauty in both Playa del Carmen and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good 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, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very family-friendly. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for romance. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

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.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Playa del Carmen and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

You'll find some public transit in Playa del Carmen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

While Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Is Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its walkability. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very walkable town. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

For even more information, also check out Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

It's fun to spend time in either Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Playa del Carmen, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this vibrant destination offers. 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 town offers something for everyone.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the authentic destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Playa del Carmen, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful town offers. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the remote town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here. It offers something for everyone.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), we can see that Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is more expensive. And not only is Playa del Carmen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Playa del Carmen is in North America and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.