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

Should you visit Cozumel or Puerto Viejo?

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 Puerto Viejo 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.

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a authentic, laid back, and relaxed town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Puerto Viejo is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Puerto Viejo travel costs.

Cozumel and Puerto Viejo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cozumel or Puerto Viejo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cozumel than Puerto Viejo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cozumel is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Puerto Viejo is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Cozumel is more touristy than Puerto Viejo and is known for its beautiful beaches and world class dive sites. Also, Cozumel is famous for Palancar Reef. Puerto Viejo is well known for its surfing, snorkeling, and seafood.

How is Cozumel different from Puerto Viejo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cozumel is very good for its museums and history. However, Puerto Viejo is lacking in 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.

Puerto Viejo offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There aren't any real museums in the area, but there are a couple of art galleries.

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

Both Cozumel and Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo. Many restaurants have a local atmosphere and serve typical Costa Rican food or seafood. You'll find no shortage of rice and beans!

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Puerto Viejo offers plenty to do in the evening. It's a laid back town during the day and at night there's a chill but lively atmosphere. You'll find a few bars and clubs that have live music, and it's not hard to find something interesting to do.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Resorts?

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Puerto Viejo 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.

Puerto Viejo is not a resort destination.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

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.

Puerto Viejo has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You'll find the best snorkeling in Cahuita National Park, where you'll see coral and colorful fish. There's a dive shop in town as well, but most people enjoy the snorkeling in the area more.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Beaches?

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

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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Puerto Viejo. The beaches in the area are beautiful and offer great waves for surfing and patches of coral reef for snorkeling. Many of the beaches are lined with forest and have a more laid back and less developed atmosphere than the beaches on the Pacific side.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Hiking?

Puerto Viejo is very good for hiking. However, Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Puerto Viejo. The hike through nearby Cahuita National Park is a highlight for many visitors. It wanders along the coastline and takes about three hours to walk. You'll likely see some wildlife during your walk.

Cozumel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cozumel or Puerto Viejo?

Cozumel is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Puerto Viejo 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.

Puerto Viejo is a great destination for shopping. You can wander through the town center and enjoy shopping at the local boutiques that sell clothes and other touristy items.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo More Beautiful?

Cozumel and Puerto Viejo both are comparable with their notable scenery and beauty.

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

Puerto Viejo is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beaches are beautiful and lined with rainforests. There's also easy access to the beautiful Cahuita National Park.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Families?

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

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.

Puerto Viejo is a very kid-friendly island. With its easy access to Cahuita National Park and many wildlife experiences, this is a great destination for the kids. Kids can see sloths and monkeys, or enjoy snorkeling and hanging out on a chill beach.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Couples?

Both Cozumel and Puerto Viejo 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.

Puerto Viejo is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's located on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, which has a more laid back and less touristy atmosphere. While you won't find the larger resorts and tourist amenities in this area, couples who enjoy hiking and a local vibe will love their time here.

Is Cozumel or Puerto Viejo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cozumel and Puerto Viejo are very good 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.

Puerto Viejo is a great island to visit for backpackers. There's a local atmosphere and enough hostels and budget accommodation to keep backpackers happy. It's also easy to explore and makes the perfect place to chill out for a few days.

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

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

While Puerto Viejo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel the longer distances, but most people walk or bike around town.

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 Puerto Viejo a more walkable city?

Cozumel and Puerto Viejo 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.

Puerto Viejo is a very walkable island. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Puerto Viejo or Cozumel?

How long in Cozumel or Puerto Viejo?

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

Families should spend more time in Cozumel than Puerto Viejo. 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 Puerto Viejo. 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 Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic 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 Puerto Viejo, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Puerto Viejo?

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 Puerto Viejo, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Puerto Viejo has to offer.

Five days in Cozumel or Puerto Viejo?

In Cozumel, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant 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.

Puerto Viejo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Puerto Viejo?

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 Puerto Viejo. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Puerto Viejo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 2-Week Tours in Costa Rica, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cozumel and Puerto Viejo, we can see that Puerto Viejo is more expensive. And not only is Cozumel much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cozumel is in North America and Puerto Viejo is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Puerto Viejo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo Expensive?.