A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Boone for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cozumel or Boone?

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

Cozumel

Cozumel is a vibrant, active, and colorful island. Cozumel offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Cozumel travel costs.

Boone

Boone is a picturesque, charming, and relaxing town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Boone travel costs.

Cozumel and Boone: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Boone?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cozumel than Boone, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cozumel is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Boone is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cozumel is more touristy than Boone and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Boone is well known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm.

How is Cozumel different from Boone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Skiing?

Boone is a great town for skiing. However, Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

Boone offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Cozumel is not a skiing destination.

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

Spend time exploring the notable sights and museums in either Cozumel or Boone.

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.

Boone offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

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

Both Cozumel and Boone offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Boone. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find very good options in both Cozumel and Boone.

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.

Boone offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is a great island for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cozumel. 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.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Boone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Cozumel is not to be missed. 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.

Boone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Beaches?

Cozumel is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Boone is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cozumel is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Boone is not a beach destination.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Boone for the hiking trails. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Boone?

If you're looking to go shopping, Cozumel and Boone both offer plenty of very good 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.

Boone is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Is Cozumel or Boone More Beautiful?

Boone is a great town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.

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

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Cozumel or Boone.

Cozumel is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Boone is a very kid-friendly island. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Boone are very good 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.

Boone is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Cozumel. There are a few hostels in town and it's a safe and easy place to explore independently.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Is Cozumel or Boone Better for Students?

Boone is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cozumel is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boone. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Cozumel is not popular with students.

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

Cozumel and Boone both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Is Cozumel or Boone a more walkable city?

Cozumel and Boone are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Boone is a very walkable island. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

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

Should I spend more time in Boone or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Boone?

It's fun to spend time in either Cozumel or Boone. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cozumel due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cozumel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Boone.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Boone. 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 Boone. 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 Cozumel than Boone 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 Boone?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this lively destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Boone is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Boone?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cozumel. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Boone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Boone has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Boone?

Cozumel is a fun place to experience. In Cozumel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Boone is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Boone?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this colorful destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boone. Since Boone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Boone?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Boone, 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.