It’s decision time. You know you want to book a Mexican getaway, but you’re just trying to decide between Cancun, Tulum, or Cozumel. Granted, it’s hard to go wrong since they are all fabulous escapes from your 9-to-5, but there are some differences that make each location unique and appropriate.
- Cancun is party
- Cozumel is relaxation
- Tulum is adventure
If you are a young adult looking for vibrant nightlife, Cancun is clearly the spot for you. If you are searching more for a quieter, laid-back family atmosphere with great snorkeling and kid-friendly beaches, Cozumel is your best option. And if you are less beach and more adventure, then Tulum is probably the one for you.
This website has an affiliate partnership with ShareASale and its merchants, including Viator. We receive compensation for referring traffic to ShareASale and its merchants.
Cancun
Cancun has a vibrant nightlife and is perfect for young adults and couples who want to mix nightlife with the beach and sun. Click here to check out the Top Things to Do in Cancun 2020. Link takes you to Viator.com (a TripAdvisor company). Viator allows you to browse, plan, and book travel attractions and tours in advance, and read other user reviews to see what attractions make the most sense for you.
Tulum
Tulum is about adventure and cultural history. Of course there is also beachfront and snorkeling excursions to enjoy, but if you’re visiting Tulum, you’ll want to see the ruins. Click here to check out the Top Things to Do in Tulum 2020. Link takes you to Viator.com (a TripAdvisor company). Viator allows you to browse, plan, and book travel attractions and tours in advance, and read other user reviews to see what attractions make the most sense for you.
Cozumel
Cozumel is great for snorkeling, family beach excursions, and laid-back relaxation. Click here to check out the Top Things to Do in Cozumel 2020. Link takes you to Viator.com (a TripAdvisor company). Viator allows you to browse, plan, and book travel attractions and tours in advance, and read other user reviews to see what attractions make the most sense for you.
______________________________________
In this article we will provide travel guides for Cancun, Tulum, and Cozumel, discussing their features, climates, drawbacks, and more, in order to help you decide which one is best for you.
Before we begin, here are a few of our other resources you may want to check out before you leave or book your trip.
Table of Contents
Cancun Travel Guide
Features
Think of Cancun as Vegas meets South Beach. It is often referred to as the party capital of Mexico. When considering Cancun vs Cozumel or Cancun vs Tulum, the main thing that differentiates Cancun from the other two is its party atmosphere.
It’s luxurious resorts, large hotels, and white sandy beaches make for the perfect bachelor or bachelorette party or spring break trip.
“Think of Cancun as Vegas meets South Beach…”
There are beaches, clubs, golf courses, casinos, and constant parties. And its this party atmosphere that differentiates it from the other destinations in this article.
Most of Cancun’s hotels are located along a strip of the beach, so you will have easy access to the ocean wherever you stay. Cancun is the place to go if you want to combine vibrant nightlife with beautiful beaches and fresh ocean air.
Here are the notable features of Cancun:
- Vibrant Nightlife – Cancun is “The Party Capital of Mexico”. The nightlife in Cancun is active and exciting. Centered in the Hotel Zone, nightlife can be found in nightclubs, bars, and clubs. Superclubs are enormous and offer entertainment. Whatever type of nightlife you prefer, you can find it in Cancun.
- Great Food – Restaurants in Cancun are known for their authentic Mexican cuisine, fresh seafood, and local produce. The food is rooted in the deep history of the Yucatan which includes the Spanish and the Mayan empires. Many resorts are all-inclusive, but if you have the opportunity, you should be sure to check out some of Cancun’s authentic restaurants.
- Never-Ending Festivals – Wherever you go, you are likely to find a festival going on in Cancun. Whether it is a music festival, food and wine festival, or a celebration like the Day of the Dead, Cancun’s festivals are exciting times and will give you a taste of the area’s culture.
- Convenient Location – Cancun is easy to get to. When comparing Cancun vs Tulum, location is a factor – to get to Tulum, you will fly into Cancun and drive about 90 minutes until you get to Tulum. With Cancun, you can actually fly into Cancun so you won’t have to worry about a drive after landing. Several airlines offer direct flights to Cancun making it a convenient place to go, especially if you don’t have a lot of time to travel. The beach is also a convenient walk from the hotel strip, putting you right on the coast.
- Golf Courses – No bachelor party would be complete without a trip to the golf course. Cancun has three trophy golf courses, headlined by Riviera Cancun which was designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Where to Visit
- Coco Bongo Cancun – Okay party-seekers, here’s your first stop (see above). Coco Bongo is considered by many to be the top nightlife spot in Cancun. It’s a combination of live performances (think Vegas live show), drinks, music, and a vibrant party-packed atmosphere. For more information on Coco Bongo, visit their site by clicking here.
- Isla Mujeres – Isla Mujeres is a small, quiet island where you can escape from the crowds and noise of Cancun. Just 20 minutes away by ferry, Isla Mujeres feels like a different world. It hosts an ancient temple, a reef park with a variety of activities, and a turtle farm where you can get a close-up look at sea turtles. If the crowds and the parties get to be too much for you, this may be a nice day-trip to find some quiet.
- El Rey Ruins – The best ruins are a ways away from Cancun (Tulum is great for ruins). But if you want to see ruins without traveling a long distance from Cancun, check out the El Rey Ruins located in the Hotel Zone. These ruins are relatively small and can be seen in a short amount of time. El Rey dates back to the year 1200. Click here to view some pictures of El Rey.
- Delphinus Punta Cancun – This facility operates out of the Hyatt Ziva and offers a variety of programs for interacting with dolphins. For example, one program involves swimming with dolphins while another provides the opportunity to spend time getting to know a dolphin. If you bring your family to Cancun, this is a great activity for the kids to enjoy. For more information on Delphinus Punta Cancun, you can visit there site by clicking here.
- Museo Maya de Cancun – At this museum, you will find some of the Yucatan’s most significant Maya artifacts. Conveniently located in the Hotel Zone, it is a great place to learn all about Mayan history, art, and civilization.
- The City Cancun – The City claims to be the largest nightclub in Latin America. It’s capacity is 5000 people and it attracts some of the top DJ talent in the world. A great spot to add to the itinerary of a weekend bachelor party.
Cancun Drawbacks
1. Not Family Oriented – Cancun is not the best Mexican getaway for families. When comparing Cancun vs Cozumel, it is important to understand that Cozumel will offer more of that laid-back atmosphere that some families are seeking. Cancun is centered around a young adult crowd and if you are looking to take your family on vacation, there are other spots in Mexico that make more sense (like Cozumel).
2. Crowds – Also, Cancun is extremely crowded in season, almost too crowded. If you are looking for an extreme party atmosphere, the crowds help. But if you are looking for a relaxing week in the sun, the crowds may end up annoying you.
Weather
The average temperature in Cancun ranges from 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect if you are spending most of your time in the pool or in the ocean. The humidity can make it feel even hotter though.
If you are sensitive to the heat, you might want to plan your trip sometime between November and March. Here is Cancun’s average temperature (Fahrenheit) by month:
- January: 73
- Feburuary: 73
- March: 77
- April: 79
- May: 81
- June: 82
- July: 82
- August: 82
- September: 82
- October: 81
- November: 77
- December: 75
Don’t Forget To Pack…
Power Bank – If you are going to Cancun, you won’t be in your hotel much. You’ll be on the beach, on a golf course, roaming the Hotel Zone, or at a nightclub. You won’t have much time to plug your phone or camera in and let it charge.
My advice is to bring a power bank with you so that you can charge your phone or camera while on the beach or golf course or out at night. Power banks are small batteries that store electrical energy for you to use later to charge your phone or camera. Simply plug your phone or camera into the power bank and let it charge.
This will allow you to keep your devices charged without having to swing back by the hotel to plug your phone in. I use mine constantly even when I am at home. It is so nice not having to worry about where an electrical outlet is.
Cancun Hotels
Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun – Considered to be one of the best hotels in Cancun, the Grand Fiesta offers a private beach, a giant pool and bar right off the beach, and indoor spa for relaxation. There are over 5,000 reviews on Trip Advisor, to read them click here.
Hard Rock Hotel Cancun – The Hard Rock in Cancun is rock star paradise that gives you live music on beach front property. This is a great place to book a bachelor or bachelorette get-a-way. To read some of the 12,000+ reviews on Trip Advisor, click here.
Cozumel Travel Guide
Features
Cancun is party, Cozumel is relaxation. Think of Cozumel as a true escape from the stress of your 9-to-5 job. Imagine a quiet getaway in the sun, with a beach chair and a book. If that is what you are looking for, Cozumel is your spot.
“Cancun is party, Cozumel is relaxation. If you are looking for a quiet getaway in the sun, with a beach chair, a breeze, and a book, Cozumel is your spot.”
Of course, when considering Cozumel vs Cancun and/or Cozumel vs Tulum, it is important to remember that Cozumel is an island. This means you will have to ferry to the mainland if you wish to explore parts of the Riviera Maya, or even tourists spots farther inland.
But Cozumel is a great destination by itself, and the island has its own advantages too, because it helps keep things at a slower, more laid-back pace than much of the mainland resort district. Cozumel is known for its secluded beaches, and great diving and snorkeling spots.
If you are going to Mexico for the ocean and the diving, Cozumel is a great choice. You will find amazing visibility, beautiful reefs, and a variety of colorful fish beneath the water.
Whether you are an advanced diver or just a beginner, the reefs of Cozumel will not disappoint you. The laid back atmosphere and the focus on nature’s wonders make this a perfect place for families with children.
Some of the other notable features of Cozumel are:
- High Quality Restaurants – You can find some great restaurants on the island offering various types of cuisine. Whether you are looking for a casual atmosphere or fine dining, you will find plenty of choices in Cozumel.
- Mayan Ruins – With 24 ancient Mayan ruins sites on the island, this is a great place to go to learn about Mayan history and civilization. Tours of some of the sites are available. Of course, when considering Cozumel vs Tulum, if you are seeking adventure and ruins, Tulum will be your spot (more about that later).
- Parks and Nature – Cozumel’s parks are known for their wide-ranging activities. At Cozumel’s parks and nature reserves, you will be able to explore lagoons, flowers, lighthouses, and wildlife.
- Close to the Mainland – Cozumel is just six miles away from the mainland and easy to get to. The ferry ride takes just 45 minutes, and it runs throughout the day. This makes it easy to take day trips from Cozumel to Playa Del Carmen, or even Cancun or Tulum.
Where to Visit
- Pepe’s Pier – This is your beach dive bar to go to for a few drinks and some fresh tacos. Pepe’s is a popular gathering area on the beach for tourists who want some food and drinks while feeling the ocean’s breeze (see photo above).
- San Gervasio Ruins – This ruin, located in central Cozumel, is a great place to see and experience Mayan ruins up close. Although Tulum offers access to better Mayan ruin sites, you can still get a quality Mayan adventure in Cozumel. You can explore the ruins on your own or take a guided tour of the area. Either way, this is an enriching and educational activity that is fun for the whole family.
- Stingray Beach – Located in San Miguel just two miles from the city center, this beach provides you with opportunities to meet and safely swim with beautiful stingrays. This is a popular attraction, so be sure to book your tour in advance and to arrive early.
- Punta Sur Eco Park – Punta Sur Eco Beach is known as the best beach on the island. It is located on the south end of the island and covers a large area. This beach features exotic birds, wildlife, and flowers making it the perfect place for nature lovers.
- Seatrek Tours – Super cool thing to do here… These tours let you walk on the sea floor. You will wear a special diving helmet that assists you with breathing while you walk along the bottom of the ocean. It is the easiest and most comfortable way to explore the underwater world. For more information, you can visit the Seatrek website by clicking here.
- Cozumel Pearl Farm – For a unique experience, plan a visit to this family-owned Pearl Farm. The tour includes a demonstration of pearl farming techniques and a visit to a pearl hatchery where you can snorkel to see for yourself how pearls are grown. Visit Pearl Farm’s website here.
- Cozumel Chef Food Tour – Okay, how about a food tour? One of the best ways to get a taste of Cozumel’s cuisine it to take the Cozumel Chef Food Tour. It will take you do some of the best restaurants on the island, many of which are local favorites and off the beaten path. This is a great activity for the foodies in your group.
Cozumel Drawbacks
The Cozumel party scene is nothing even close to what Cancun has to offer. If you are looking for a party trip, Cancun would be a better choice. Cozumel is family-oriented and a great spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Weather
The climate in Cozumel is tropical. Summers are hot and humid and winters are cool. If you want to avoid the humidity, September is a good time to go.
April and May are also nice times to go to avoid humidity and crowds. The rainy season in Cozumel runs from October to January and from April to July.
June and July are the wettest months. Hurricane season runs from June through the end of November.
For diving, the best time to avoid stormy seas is from March through June. From spring to early fall, underwater visibility is good.
Here is the average monthly (Fahrenheit) temperature in Cozumel:
- January: 75
- February: 77
- March: 77
- April: 81
- May: 81
- June: 81
- July: 81
- August: 82
- September: 81
- October: 81
- November: 77
- December: 75
Packing Tips
Don’t forget to pack your own snorkel gear (mask and fins) if you don’t want to have to rent used snorkel gear on location. Pro Tip: Decide before hand if you prefer a traditional snorkel mask or a full-face snorkel mask. Each is unique, and the opinion on which one is better varies depending on each person. If you wait to rent snorkel gear, you likely will not have a choice.
Cozumel Hotels
Presidente Inter-Continental Cozumel Resort & Spa – This hotel and spa has a private beach with snorkeling. The spa offers all the essentials like massages, facials, manis, pedis, and fitness yoga sessions. It has a beach front bar for you to relax at during the afternoon and evening. To read some of the 2,000 reviews on Trip Advisor, click here.
Casa Mexicana Cozumel – A great, affordable option, Casa Mexicana offers beach and ocean views and is only a minutes walk from the pier. If you are tripping to Cozumel on a budget, this is a good spot for you. To read some of the 1,300 reviews on Trip Advisor, click here.
Tulum Travel Guide
Features
Tulum is the place for adventure seekers – those who want a at least a little beach time in their vacation, but also want some inland exploration. A town on the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is most famous for its Mayan ruins.
Tulum is the place for adventure seekers.
In Tulum, you will find ruins of an ancient Mayan Port city, complete with large stone structures and pyramids that tower over the sea.
Tulum was once a fortified religious community for the Mayan empire. This spectacular sight will be the highlight of your visit if you love history and adventure.
When comparing Tulum vs Cancun and Tulum vs Cozumel, although all three have some sort of ruins available for exploration, Tulum’s ruins are by far the best. These are some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in the world. You can take a tour of the ruins by taxi or bicycle, and of course explore by foot. Either way, it will be an unforgettable experience.
The tour of the ruins itself is very cheap (think 3-5 USD) if you choose to not use a tour guide. This is a great way to enjoy time in the sun off the beach and let the kids investigate a bit of world history.
Some of the other notable features of Tulum are:
- Shopping – If you love to shop, you won’t be disappointed by Tulum’s selection of local boutiques. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, sandals, jewelry, or clothing, you will find them here. Shops feature local designers, traditional crafts, colorful textiles, and much more.
- The Food – Tulum is the place to go for fresh, local food. Be sure to check out restaurants that feature traditional Yucatan cuisine, such as fish dishes served with sauce, tacos, and ceviche.
- The Beaches – While the Mayan ruins might be the most famous attraction in Tulum, the beaches are beautiful and relaxing. The beaches of Cancun and Cozumel are better, but these beaches are beautiful also.
- Yoga – If you like yoga or want to learn more about it, you will find that it is a quite popular activity in Tulum. Whether on the beach, at your resort, or on your paddleboard, yoga is a great way to relax and make the most of your vacation.
Where to Visit
- Cenotes – Cenotes are natural pits formed when limestone bedrock collapses and exposes the underlying groundwater. These are great for snorkeling. A popular Cenote to visit in Tulum is Gran Cenote.
- The Kaan Luum Lagoon – This lagoon is just south of Tulum. It is a quiet, tranqual place to escape the crowds of Tulum. You can swim at Kaan Luum or just relax by the water. This is your escape if the crowds become too much.
- The Dining Experience Tulum – Self-described as a professional dinner party for adults, this is a unique dining experience where you can make your own salsa and drinks, try out Mayan fare, and meet some new people. For more information, you can visit their site by clicking here.
- Playo Paraiso – This wide and popular beach includes a newly arrived Beach Club. There are plenty of activities here including snorkeling, scuba diving, and lounging in hammocks.
- Tulum Ruins – One of the most popular Mayan archaeological sites, the Tulum ruins are located just south of Tulum’s downtown area. You will find several temples and castles at this unique sight. Guided tours are available.
- Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve – Nature lovers should not miss out on this natural wonder. Located just south of Tulum, it features 1.3 million acres of estuaries, reefs, cenotes, and wetlands. Great for tours, diving, snorkeling, or hikes, this park will be fun for the whole family.
Tulum Drawbacks
1. Crowds – While most visitors love Tulum, some find it to be too noisy and crowded. The ruins are very popular and are selfie-magnets. Expect the sites to be very crowded.
2. Ruins – Okay, bear with me. The ruins are very neat and a great idea for the kids to experience as long as you can brave the crowds. Here’s the issue: if you are a true adventure nut, the Tulum ruins (in my opinion) are not even the best Mayan ruins in the area. Those are in Chichen Itza, about 2 hours away to the west. So if the ruins are your main attraction, perhaps Chichen Itza is a better place for you. But the drawback to Chichen Itza is it is not seaside. So if you are wanting to combine beach with adventure, Tulum beats Chichen Itza all day.
3. Airport – You will fly in to the Cancun airport when going to Tulum. So after the flight, you will have a two hour trip down the coast to Tulum. Will you be up for this?
Weather
Tulum is known for its warm climate with temperatures ranging from the 60s and high 80s. Hurricane season runs from July through October.
During this period, you will find more rainy days and temperatures in the 90s. November-December is one of the best times to visit if you want cooler temperatures and good deals.
Here is the average (Fahrenheit) temperature by month in Tulum:
- January: 75
- February: 75
- March: 77
- April: 79
- May: 82
- June: 82
- July: 82
- August: 82
- September: 82
- October: 81
- November: 79
- December: 75
How to Prepare for Tulum…
When packing and preparing for Tulum, think about buying a book detailing the history of the Mayan culture, or downloading an audiobook about Mayan history to listen to on your flight in (or during the two-hour drive to Tulum).
This will help increase your appreciation and experience and bring the location to life in your mind and make it more than just steps and stones.
Tulum Hotels
Dreams Tulum: Dreams Tulum is an all-inclusive resort with its own spa, fantastic beach views, and family friendly activities. It’s about a 5 minute trip from the Tulum ruins. To read over 5,000 reviews about this hotel, visit Trip Advisor by clicking here.
Coco Tulum: Located in the middle of the Hotel Zone, Coco Tulum is an affordable hotel with clean, chic rooms and a beautiful beach out front. Some rooms have direct beach access. To read over 1,000 reviews about this hotel, visit Trip Advisor by clicking here.