A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Nantucket for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Tulum or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Tulum and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Nantucket?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Nantucket are both popular with visitors, Tulum has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tulum is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nantucket is known for its food, historical sights, and small town charm. Tulum is more touristy than Nantucket and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also home to the Tulum archeological ruins. Nantucket is popular for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling.

How is Tulum different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

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.

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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

Nantucket is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tulum is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Nantucket have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

Tulum has a huge number of terrific 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).

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is renowned for nightlife. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Tulum is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Tulum is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

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.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Tulum is renowned for its beaches. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

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 Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Tulum does not have a historic old town.

Nantucket is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Tulum does not have a historic old town.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Both Tulum and Nantucket 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 Nantucket. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Nantucket?

Both Tulum and Nantucket are superb shopping destinations.

Tulum is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Nantucket is well-known for its shopping. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Nantucket are superb 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, Nantucket is very family-friendly. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Both Tulum and Nantucket 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.

Nantucket is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

Is Tulum or Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

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.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Both Tulum and Nantucket offer good public transit options.

Tulum has a few public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Nantucket has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Tulum or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Tulum and Nantucket both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Nantucket is a very walkable town. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Tulum or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Tulum due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Tulum. 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.

Even though Nantucket is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nantucket?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active destination of Tulum. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. 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 Nantucket?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the ancient town of Tulum. 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.

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tulum or Nantucket?

Tulum is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 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 Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket 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 Nantucket Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Nantucket, 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 Nantucket?

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 Nantucket in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Nantucket. Many visitors come to Tulum in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Nantucket for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Tulum is a little warmer than Nantucket in the summer. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 28°C (83°F) in July, and Nantucket fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Nantucket. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Nantucket receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Nantucket in the Autumn?

Both Nantucket 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 Nantucket because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Tulum is much warmer than Nantucket. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tulum in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Nantucket averages at about 53°F (12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nantucket. It's quite rainy in Tulum. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Nantucket. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.4 inches (111 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 Nantucket in the Winter?

Both Nantucket 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. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nantucket this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nantucket in the winter. In January, Tulum is generally much warmer than Nantucket. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 23°C (74°F), and Nantucket fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Nantucket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Tulum usually gets less rain in January than Nantucket. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Nantucket in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Nantucket. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantucket for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Tulum is much warmer than Nantucket in the spring. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Nantucket fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

Nantucket receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Tulum usually receives less rain than Nantucket. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Nantucket receives 4.1 inches (103 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 Nantucket and Tulum