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

Should you visit Cancun or Nantucket?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cancun and Nantucket can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a tropical, active, and adventurous city. Cancun is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cancun travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a serene, peaceful, and upscale island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Nantucket travel costs.

Cancun and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or Nantucket?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cancun. Although Cancun and Nantucket are popular destinations, Cancun has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cancun is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Nantucket attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and small town charm. Cancun is more touristy than Nantucket and is known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. It is also well known for . Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling.

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How is Cancun different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cancun or Nantucket?

Cancun is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

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 Cancun or Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Nantucket has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cancun area. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Cancun or Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

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

Cancun is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

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 Cancun or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Cancun 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, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

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 Cancun or Nantucket Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun is not to be missed. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Cancun is a very popular vacation destination. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

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 Cancun or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nantucket. 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.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Is Cancun or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or Nantucket?

Nantucket is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Cancun to go shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Cancun or Nantucket More Beautiful?

Cancun and Nantucket are somewhat similar when it comes to the very good scenery.

The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

With stunning beauty, Nantucket attracts visitors from all around. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

Is Cancun or Nantucket Better for Families?

Cancun is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Cancun is one of the most popular family destinations. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Cancun or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Both Cancun and Nantucket are fantastic destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Nantucket has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Cancun or Nantucket Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cancun is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Cancun is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cancun and Nantucket.

Cancun has some public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

You'll find some public transit in Nantucket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Cancun or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Cancun and Nantucket are very good when it comes to walkability.

Cancun is a very walkable city. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. 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 Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is Nantucket Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Cancun or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cancun due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cancun 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 Cancun.

One day in Cancun or Nantucket?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Cancun. 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.

Nantucket might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cancun or Nantucket?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the active destination of Cancun. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cancun or Nantucket?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the active city of Cancun. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantucket. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cancun or Nantucket?

Cancun is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cancun, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cancun and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket is more expensive. And not only is Cancun much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cancun would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cancun 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 Cancun.

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or Nantucket?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nantucket. When comparing the sizes of Cancun 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.