A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cozumel vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Cozumel or Jaco?

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 Jaco 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Cozumel travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a laid back, popular, and touristy town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Jaco travel costs.

Cozumel and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Cozumel or Jaco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cozumel than Jaco, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cozumel is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is more popular for its nightlife. Cozumel is well known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Jaco is well known for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches.

How is Cozumel different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jaco 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 Jaco?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cozumel. Check out the Island Museum, the Coral Reefs Monument, and some of the local Mayan ruins. Also worth a visit is Cozumel's Lighthouse.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.


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

Cozumel
Jaco

Both Cozumel and Jaco 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 Jaco. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Cozumel
Jaco

Jaco is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cozumel is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Jaco is a world class party destination. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

Cozumel offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Resorts?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Jaco 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.

Jaco is not a resort destination.


Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Jaco. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Jaco. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Jaco?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Jaco is a great destination for shopping. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.


Is Cozumel or Jaco More Beautiful?

Cozumel
Jaco

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

Cozumel offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The beaches and undersea world are stunningly beautiful.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Families?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cozumel. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Couples?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cozumel makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.


Is Cozumel or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cozumel
Jaco

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Jaco 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.

Jaco is a great island to visit for backpackers. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

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

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel and Jaco 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 Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Cozumel or Jaco a more walkable city?

Cozumel
Jaco

Cozumel and Jaco are excellent 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.

Jaco is a very walkable island. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Cozumel or Jaco. 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 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Jaco. 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 Jaco. 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 Jaco 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.


  • How many days in Cozumel or Jaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cozumel 3-7 
    Jaco 3-4

One day in Cozumel or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cozumel. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Jaco, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Jaco?

Cozumel is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Jaco, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the lively destination of Cozumel. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Jaco 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 Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic island of Cozumel. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jaco. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Jaco. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Jaco or Cozumel?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cozumel is $122, while the average daily cost in Jaco is $119. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cozumel and Jaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cozumel $63
    Jaco $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cozumel $126
    Jaco $134
Compare Hotels in Cozumel and Jaco

Looking for a hotel in Cozumel or Jaco? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cozumel


Hotels in Jaco


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cozumel Hotel Prices and Jaco Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cozumel $21
    Jaco -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cozumel

Also for Cozumel, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Cozumel Port to Cozumel Airport (CZM): $93
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel to Cozumel Airport: $67
  • Private One Way Transfer from Cozumel Airport to Cozumel: $67
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Mexico Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel -Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Shared Transfer from Airport to Hotel: $27
  • Cozumel Mayan Experience And Beach Getaway with Transfer: $55
  • Cozumel Jungle ATV Tour Adventure and Caverns with transfer: $65
  • Cozumel Airport (CZM) to Cozumel Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $154
  • ATV tour to jade cavern with transfer (single or double): $55
  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern with transfer: $83

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jaco

Also for Jaco, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer to Jaco beach from San José or the airport one way: $235
  • Jaco/Monteverde to Liberia Airport (LIR) - Departure Transfer : $204
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Jaco to Juan Santa Maria Airport: $175
  • Jaco to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) - Departure Private Transfer: $144
  • Private Direct SJO ↔ Jaco Beach/Los Sueños Transfer Service: $70
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Jaco Beach Puntarenas: $66
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Playa Jaco Puntarenas: $63
  • Shuttle & transfer rides to SJO Airport Costa Rica: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Cozumel or Jaco?

Prices for flights to both Jaco and Cozumel change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cozumel $37
    Jaco $36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cozumel

For Cozumel, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Under the Stars Twilight Snorkel and Seaside Dinner at Money Bar: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $90
  • Cozumel Food Tour: $110

Typical Food Prices in Jaco

For Jaco, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hermosa BeachLlunch
    $3.94
  • Tsunami Sushi Dinner
    $18
  • Taco Bar Dinner
    $9.00
  • Pizza & Smoothie Lunch
    $6.30
  • Ice Cream
    $5.91
  • Breakfast Taco Bar
    $3.34
  • Fruit Plate
    $2.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jaco

For Jaco, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Costa Rican cooking class with cookbook author Melissa Guzman: $85
  • Traditional Costa Rican cooking class and meal with a modern twist: $139
  • Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, Hot Springs Combo Tour with Lunch & Dinner: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cozumel $40
    Jaco $60

Tours and Activities in Cozumel

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cozumel.

  • 10 Experiences Tour : $200
  • 15-minute Private Parasailing Experience in Cozumel: $78
  • 4 Hour Cozumel Turtle Sanctuary Experience on a Luxury Catamarán : $72
  • 4 Hour Snorkeling Tour in Cozumel: $55
  • ATV Adventour: Jade Cave Cenote, Transportation & Tequila: $87
  • ATV Adventure to Jade Cavern Double: $113
  • ATV Adventure to Mayan Jade Cavern plus Snorkeling and Lunch: $79
  • ATV Jungle Adventure to Hidden Mayan Ruins and Caves: $89
  • ATV Seashore + Cenote Combo: Mezcalitos & Mayan Cenote Experience: $64
  • ATV and Clear Boat Ride Full Experience in Cozumel: $80
  • Adventure Tour Village ATVs Beach with Snorkeling and Villa Maya: $100
  • Adventure in Punta Sur Ecological Reserve Cozumel: $90

Typical Entertainment Prices in Jaco

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Jaco's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Dance Class
    $9.81
  • Surf Lesson
    $49
  • Bike Rental
    $9.81
  • Tortuga Island Tour
    $98
  • Massage
    $44

Tours and Activities in Jaco

For Jaco, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • All Inclusive Catamaran Day Tour to Tortuga Island: $169
  • Mountain View Zip-line Tour: $67
  • Ocean views Zip Line Canopy Tour in Jaco Beach and Los Suenos : $71
  • 10 WATERFALLS and NATURAL POOLS HIKING EXPERIENCE 4x4 TRUCK RIDE: $60
  • 2 HRS Buggy Tour + Waterfalls in Jaco Beach and Los Suenos: $212
  • 2 Hour ATV Jungle Adventure Jaco: $75
  • 2 Hour ATV Tour and 2 Hour Zipline Experience in Jaco: $119
  • 2 hour ATV Tour & Waterfalls + Chocolate Experience : $110
  • 2 hour Double ATV Tour + Waterfalls in Jaco Beach : $99
  • 3-Hour ATV Jungle Waterfall Adventure: $95
  • 3-Hour Private Guided Experience of 7 Course Contemporary Indian Tasting Menu: $225
  • 4 Hours ATV and Waterfall Tour at Quebrada Ganado: $150

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cozumel $10
    Jaco $32

Sample the Local Flavors in Cozumel

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cozumel:

  • Chocolate Seaside Workshop & Wine Tasting: $45
  • Downtown Cozumel and Brewery Experience: $69
  • Rum and Gin at Cozumel First Distillery : $99
  • Craft Beer Tasting Experience with Brewery Tour: $99
  • Cozumel Mixology Experience at Distillery : $109

Typical Alcohol Prices in Jaco

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Jaco:


  • Wine
    $15
  • Night at the Bar
    $27


When comparing the travel costs between Cozumel and Jaco, we can see that Cozumel is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Cozumel is in North America and Jaco is in Central America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Cozumel or Jaco?

Cozumel has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Cozumel and Jaco, 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.