A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Big Sur for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Tulum or Big Sur?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Big Sur can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a lively, ancient, and archeological town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Tulum and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Big Sur?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Big Sur is more popular for its impressive beauty. Tulum is more touristy than Big Sur and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Tulum different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and Tulum. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Big Sur?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tulum has many famous sights for visitors. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Tulum or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Tulum has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

The nightlife in Tulum is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Tulum is a perfect choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum is not to be missed. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Tulum is a very popular vacation destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Both Tulum and Big Sur are destinations which offer superb hiking.

Tulum is a popular spot for hiking. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Big Sur?

Tulum is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Tulum. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Families?

Tulum is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tulum. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Both Tulum and Big Sur are amazing destinations for a couple's getaway.

Tulum is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Big Sur is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is Tulum or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tulum is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Tulum offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Tulum or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Tulum is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

Tulum is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Big Sur is not a walkable town. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tulum and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tulum than in Big Sur. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Big Sur 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Big Sur?

In Tulum, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this breathtaking destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tulum or Big Sur?

In Tulum, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Big Sur?

Tulum is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tulum has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Big Sur. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tulum or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tulum. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food around the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours 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 Tulum and Big Sur, we can see that Tulum is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Tulum would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tulum than you might in Big Sur.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tulum Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Tulum or Big Sur?

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 Tulum or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Tulum in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Tulum is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Big Sur fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tulum for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Tulum is much warmer than Big Sur in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite rainy in Tulum. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Tulum is November to April. The rainy season in Tulum is June to October. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Should I visit Tulum or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and Tulum during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Tulum because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Big Sur averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Tulum usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Big Sur. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Big Sur. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Tulum is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Big Sur fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

In April, Tulum usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Tulum