A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ensenada vs. Fort Lauderdale for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ensenada

Ensenada is a historic, cultural, and outdoorsy city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Ensenada travel costs.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is a scenic, bustling, and spirited coastal city. The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Fort Lauderdale travel costs.

Ensenada and Fort Lauderdale: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Fort Lauderdale than Ensenada. While Ensenada is larger than Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Ensenada attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Fort Lauderdale is more touristy than Ensenada and is known for its canals, beaches, walkable waterfront, and luxury resorts. It is also well known for The Local Beaches. Ensenada is famous for its local cuisine, golf, and outdoor sports.

How is Ensenada different from Fort Lauderdale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Ensenada is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Ensenada is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several good museums in town such as the Museo de Historia and Caracol Museo de Ciencias.

Fort Lauderdale does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Ensenada and Fort Lauderdale offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ensenada. The town is known for its seafood, and fish tacos is one of the most popular dishes. You'll find seafood markets and street cards selling fresh and local items. Sample your way through the city and enjoy all of the local specialties.

Fort Lauderdale has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious option with popular dishes being fish tacos, sea bass, and scallop risotto. There are many waterfront restaurants or you could head to Las Olas Boulevard, which has many bistros, cafes, and restaurants.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Nightlife?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Fort Lauderdale know how to have a good time. Trendy and upscale partying is the name of the game in this Florida city. Most people head to the beach, Las Olas Blvd, River Front and The New Hard Rock Seminole Hotel Complex for the best bars and clubs. You'll find the most activity around the weekends, but there really is something going on any night of the week.

If you're looking for night time activities Ensenada has a few options to choose from. There are a number of bars and nightclubs around town. Head to Avenida López Mateos for many of the best restaurants and bars.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Resorts?

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its resorts. However, Ensenada is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Fort Lauderdale is a great choice. Luxury beachfront resorts are plentiful in the area. Several of the most impressive include the Ritz-Carlton, W Fort Lauderdale, and the Dalmar. Most resorts have a beachfront pool, hot tubs, and depending on the resort, a kid's club.

Ensenada is not a resort destination.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fort Lauderdale is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ensenada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Fort Lauderdale has a few good snorkeling spots. Although the snorkeling doesn't compare to what you'll find further south around the Florida Keys, there are some great places to pull your mask and fins out in the area. Popular snorkeling spots nearby include the Vista Park Reef, Pompano Beach, and Hollywood North Beach Park.

Ensenada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Beaches?

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for the beach. However, Ensenada is a city with minimal options for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, a fun boardwalk, and impressive views, the beaches here are among the best in the area. They are surprisingly walkable and, while there can be crowds, there's still a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere.

The beach in Ensenada is worth checking out. It's a working port town and the beaches in the area aren't great. You'll find the best options to the south of the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Fort Lauderdale and Ensenada.

Ensenada offers some nice shopping areas. Avenida López Mateos is the main shopping street in town. You'll find many shops, but be prepared to pay more than you might elsewhere because shopkeepers are used to cruise ship riders who are willing to pay a high price tag.

Fort Lauderdale has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. For interesting local boutiques head to Las Olas Boulevard and for name brand stores you'll want to visit Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale More Beautiful?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ensenada is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Fort Lauderdale is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Seven miles of scenic coastline with a boardwalk to explore make this a beautiful Florida beach destination.

Ensenada is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Families?

Fort Lauderdale is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Fort Lauderdale is a very kid-friendly coastal city. With seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches and a number of kid-oriented activities, the kids will love it here. Fun activities include Bluefoot Pirate Adventures, Butterfly World, and Funderdome. On sunny days there are many outdoor recreation areas and when the weather isn't cooperating, there are hands-on museums.

Ensenada offers lots of family activities. You'll find ziplining, horseback riding, and surf lessons in the area. Kids will also enjoy seeing the Water Show or going whale watching.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Couples?

Fort Lauderdale is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Ensenada is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Fort Lauderdale makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Fine dining, beautiful beaches, and great shopping make for a great romantic getaway. Couples and honeymooners love relaxing at the beaches in Fort Lauderdale. A sunset walk on the beach and a stay at a romantic resort will make for an unforgettable trip.

Ensenada is a good city for couples to visit. The city has an authentic atmosphere that will let you experience a more genuine side to Mexico.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ensenada is a good destination for backpackers. However, Fort Lauderdale is a coastal city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ensenada. There are a few hostels and a number of cheap hotels around town.

Fort Lauderdale is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. You'll find few backpackers heading to the high end city.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ensenada and Fort Lauderdale.

Public transit is generally limited in Ensenada. Public transit in the area is limited.

Public transit is mostly limited in Fort Lauderdale. Transportation options include a water taxi and the Sun Trolley Hop-on Bus.

Is Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale a more walkable city?

Ensenada and Fort Lauderdale both are superb when exploring on foot.

Ensenada is a very walkable city. The downtown area is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Fort Lauderdale is a very walkable destination. It is one of the most walkable Florida communities with a boardwalk and several pedestrian areas that are fun to wander around.

For even more information, also check out Is Ensenada Worth Visiting? and Is Fort Lauderdale Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fort Lauderdale or Ensenada?

How long in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Both Ensenada and Fort Lauderdale have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fort Lauderdale than in Ensenada. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ensenada, and 3-7 days is enough time in Fort Lauderdale.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ensenada than Fort Lauderdale 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 Ensenada.

One day in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

The cultural destination of Ensenada offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful coastal city of Fort Lauderdale offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

A weekend in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

The city of Ensenada offers food and shopping. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Fort Lauderdale 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.

Five days in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Ensenada is a great place to explore. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Fort Lauderdale is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Fort Lauderdale, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ensenada. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Fort Lauderdale is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. 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 Fort Lauderdale has to offer. This coastal city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Ensenada or Fort Lauderdale?

Ensenada has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Fort Lauderdale. When comparing the sizes of Ensenada and Fort Lauderdale, 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.