A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Cozumel or Berkeley?

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 Berkeley can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cozumel

Cozumel is a active, colorful, and scenic island. Cozumel offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Cozumel travel costs.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. Berkeley is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Berkeley travel costs.

Cozumel and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Berkeley?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Cozumel than Berkeley. While Berkeley is larger than Cozumel, Cozumel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cozumel is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Berkeley is more popular for its museums and attractions and food. Cozumel is more touristy than Berkeley and is popular for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Berkeley is well known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Cozumel different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cozumel or Berkeley?

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

Many visitors head to Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Cozumel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

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

Berkeley is a great city 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 Berkeley. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

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 Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Cozumel and Berkeley.

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.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is notable for its resorts. However, Berkeley is not a resort destination.

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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Berkeley?

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Berkeley both offer plenty of excellent spots.

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.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley More Beautiful?

Cozumel and Berkeley both are comparable with their notable scenery and beauty.

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

Berkeley is a beautiful place to visit, too. It has a nice campus and a unique setting that mixes an urban environment with a bayside location.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Families?

Cozumel is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cozumel is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly island. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Couples?

Cozumel is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Cozumel is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, resorts, and adventure sports make this the perfect couples destination. There are also great restaurants and plenty of interesting places to explore.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Berkeley are excellent places to visit.

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.

Berkeley is a great island to visit for backpackers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Is Cozumel or Berkeley Better for Students?

Berkeley is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

Berkeley is very popular with students. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cozumel is not known for its public transit.

Berkeley has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley a more walkable city?

Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cozumel and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cozumel than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

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

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

One day in Cozumel or Berkeley?

The island of Cozumel offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Berkeley, you'll find nightlife and food. This city 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 Berkeley?

Cozumel 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.

In Berkeley, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berkeley has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Berkeley?

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

Berkeley is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cozumel or Berkeley?

Cozumel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cozumel has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Berkeley. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cozumel and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley 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 Berkeley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Berkeley 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 Berkeley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Berkeley?

Berkeley has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Cozumel. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Berkeley, 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.