A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Marathon for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Tulum or Marathon?

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 Marathon 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 ancient, archeological, and tropical town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Tulum and Marathon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Marathon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Marathon are both popular with visitors, Tulum has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tulum is more touristy than Marathon and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also home to the Tulum archeological ruins. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Tulum different from Marathon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Tulum from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tulum is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Tulum. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Tulum is a world class party destination. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

Tulum offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its diving and snorkeling.

People travel to Tulum specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Beaches?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

The beaches in Tulum are among the best in the world. 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.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Hiking?

Tulum is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Tulum for the hiking trails. 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Marathon?

Tulum is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Marathon are high quality to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marathon is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Couples?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Tulum has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Is Tulum or Marathon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Tulum is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Tulum is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon 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 Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Tulum or Marathon a more walkable city?

Tulum is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Marathon or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Marathon?

Both Tulum and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Tulum. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marathon.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Marathon. 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 Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon?

The beautiful town of Tulum offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Marathon?

Tulum 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Marathon?

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

Marathon is a fun place to experience. In Marathon, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Marathon?

Tulum is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours 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 Tulum and Marathon, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is Tulum much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tulum would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tulum 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 Marathon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Marathon than you might in Tulum.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Marathon?

Marathon has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Marathon, 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 Tulum or Marathon?

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 Marathon in the Summer?

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

Tulum is around the same temperature as Marathon in the summer. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Marathon fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 328 hours of full sun.

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Marathon. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Marathon in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Tulum is around the same temperature as Marathon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tulum in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Marathon averages at about 80°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. It's quite rainy in Tulum. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Marathon. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 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. June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Tulum or Marathon in the Winter?

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

In January, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Marathon. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 23°C (74°F), and Marathon fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the winter, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets more rain in January than Marathon. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Marathon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Marathon. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Tulum is around the same temperature as Marathon in the spring. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Marathon fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tulum usually receives more rain than Marathon. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 0.8 inches (21 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. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Typical Weather for Marathon and Tulum