A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Beaver Creek for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

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 Cozumel and Beaver Creek can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Cozumel travel costs.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a charming, active, and adventurous town. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and food. See Beaver Creek travel costs.

Cozumel and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cozumel. Although Cozumel and Beaver Creek are both popular with visitors, Cozumel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cozumel is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Beaver Creek is known for its skiing, theatre productions, food, and hiking. Cozumel is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. It is also home to Palancar Reef. Beaver Creek is popular for its skiing and charming atmosphere

How is Cozumel different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

Beaver Creek is among the world's best ski destinations. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Cozumel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Beaver Creek does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Beaver Creek is mediocre for theatre. However, Cozumel is not a theatre destination.

While not known for its theater, you might be able to find something in Beaver Creek while you're in town. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Cozumel is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Cozumel or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beaver Creek is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cozumel 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 Beaver Creek. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Cozumel. You'll find a mix of tourist restaurants and hidden gems that serve up authentic Mexican dishes. Wander off the main streets to find the restaurants that are tucked away from the cruise ship crowds.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel is a great island for nightlife. However, Beaver Creek is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cozumel has something for everybody. The nightlife scene is filled with cocktail lounges, beachfront bars, and wild weekend parties. There is something for everyone, whether you'll looking to sip wine by the ocean or party into the early morning.

Most people don't head to Beaver Creek specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is a great island for its luxury resorts. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Cozumel is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are hotels in the city center, and resorts by the beaches. For diving and snorkeling, stay in Southern Cozumel. Golfing and waterfront properties are popular in Northern Cozumel.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Beaver Creek is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Cozumel specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. Many people visit Cozumel specifically for the world class diving. Palancar Reef is one of the best dive spots in the area, and thanks to conservation efforts it is rebounding and offers a diverse environment.

Beaver Creek is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cozumel are among the best in the world. The island is lined with beautiful beaches and you'll find great snorkeling and tourist-friendly amenities. Some of the best beaches are Playa Punta Morena, Playa El Cielo, and Playa Chen Rio.

Beaver Creek is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Beaver Creek is a great town for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

Cozumel is a great island for shopping. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cozumel. For the best shopping head to Plaza del Sol, the Royal Village Shopping Center, or Los Cincos Soles. Expect cruise ship crowds and no shortage of tourists.

Beaver Creek offers some nice shopping areas. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek More Beautiful?

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cozumel is a gorgeous place to visit. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Beaver Creek is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Beaver Creek is one of the most popular family destinations. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Cozumel is a very kid-friendly island. The area is filled with water parks, snorkeling opportunities and, of course, fun-filled beaches. There are also wildlife reserves and Mayan ruins that aren't too far away.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Beaver Creek are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Cozumel is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Beaver Creek is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

Cozumel is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beaver Creek is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

While Beaver Creek offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is generally limited in Cozumel. Local buses don't efficiently travel to the beaches or the hotel areas, so most tourists don't use them.

Is Cozumel or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Beaver Creek is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Beaver Creek is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Cozumel is a very walkable island. It's easy to walk around the downtown as it's compact and fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Cozumel Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

Both Cozumel and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cozumel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cozumel than Beaver Creek. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cozumel than Beaver Creek 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 Cozumel.

One day in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant island offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

Cozumel is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

In Beaver Creek, you'll find skiing and food. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this lively destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beaver Creek has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Beaver Creek?

Cozumel is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beaver Creek. In Beaver Creek, you'll find shopping and skiing. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cozumel and Beaver Creek, we can see that Beaver Creek is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cozumel would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cozumel 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 Beaver Creek would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beaver Creek than you might in Cozumel.

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