A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ilha Grande vs. Tulum for Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Ilha Grande or Tulum?

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

Should I visit Ilha Grande or Tulum? 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.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ilha Grande travel costs.

Tulum

Tulum is a active, lively, and ancient town. The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Tulum travel costs.

Ilha Grande and Tulum: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tulum. Although Ilha Grande and Tulum are popular destinations, Tulum has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tulum is more touristy than Ilha Grande and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also well known for the Tulum archeological ruins. Ilha Grande is famous for

How is Ilha Grande different from Tulum?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. However, Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Tulum are world-renowned. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ilha Grande or Tulum? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Tulum has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ilha Grande area. The island still has a quiet, local vibe and that can be seen in the restaurants around town as well. Many places are locally owned and serve up traditional dishes. In particular, the seafood is excellent.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Tulum is a world class party destination. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Ilha Grande. It's a quiet island with a national park and most people visit specifically to get away from the busy and active city scene.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ilha Grande is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Tulum is a great choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Ilha Grande is not a resort destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Tulum a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Ilha Grande. There are several places where you can rent snorkeling or dive equipment. The area has coral and tropical fish, with the occasional sea turtle sighting. The visibility is generally good and the experience is worth enjoying, but make sure you check on water conditions.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Beaches?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Ilha Grande is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Tulum. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Ilha Grande is not a beach destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

Tulum is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Tulum is well-known for its shopping. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum More Beautiful?

Tulum is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Ilha Grande offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The secluded beaches and surrounding nature make this a beautiful island to explore. It's made up of a national park and there are hiking trails and many scenic spots.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tulum is very family-friendly. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ilha Grande. Most families who visit the island come for the beaches. There are also many nice hikes, waterfalls, and even wildlife that the kids will enjoy. In the village there are a few restaurants. Many aren't geared specifically to kids, but they do have a selection that kids might enjoy.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Couples?

Tulum is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Tulum makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Couples visit Ilha Grande frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Scenic beaches and beautiful nature make this a wonderful couples retreat that's not far from Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have a more relaxed and quiet vibe than many places in Brazil and the island still holds on to its undiscovered atmosphere.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ilha Grande and Tulum are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Ilha Grande. It is possible to reach the island with a backpacker's budget, but it will take you more time than if you hire a private tour. Once you're on the island there are some hostels and budget hotels to choose from as well.

Tulum is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tulum is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Tulum has some public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Ilha Grande. You'll need to take a boat to reach the island, and once you're there, there are not vehicles around.

Is Ilha Grande or Tulum a more walkable city?

Ilha Grande and Tulum are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Ilha Grande is a very walkable . There are no cars on the island and very few roads. You'll spend a lot of time hiking around, which is the best way to enjoy the island. They don't call it "big island" for no reason though, so make sure you understand the distance between destinations.

Tulum is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Should I spend more time in Tulum or Ilha Grande?

How long in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

In either Ilha Grande or Tulum, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tulum than Ilha Grande because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Ilha Grande, and 3-5 days is enough time in Tulum.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Ilha Grande 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 Tulum.

One day in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

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In Ilha Grande, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. This 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active town of Tulum. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ilha Grande. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Tulum. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

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Ilha Grande is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Ilha Grande. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the ancient town of Tulum. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ilha Grande or Tulum?

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You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the destination of Ilha Grande. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Tulum. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.

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

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