A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Charleston for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Charleston. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a relaxing, laid back, and idyllic island. Isla Mujeres offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Charleston

Charleston is a classic, picturesque, and charming coastal town. The beauty of Charleston is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Charleston travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Charleston. Although Isla Mujeres and Charleston are both popular with visitors, Charleston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Charleston is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Isla Mujeres is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Isla Mujeres is popular for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Charleston is popular for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also home to The Waterfront Park.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Charleston is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Charleston offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Charleston, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

Isla Mujeres has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Isla Mujeres and Charleston.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Charleston. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Isla Mujeres is not a live music destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Isla Mujeres offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Charleston has a handful of resorts to choose from. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Isla Mujeres specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for the beach. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Isla Mujeres are among the best in the world. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

The beaches at Charleston attract visitors from all over. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Charleston offers plenty to see. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Charleston is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Charleston make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Isla Mujeres has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston More Beautiful?

Charleston is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Charleston is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Isla Mujeres offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is an amazing island to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is an amazing family-friendly island to visit. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

Charleston is a family-friendly island. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres and Charleston both world-class destinations for a couple.

Isla Mujeres is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Charleston makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres is notable for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Isla Mujeres is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a good destination for students. However, Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

Charleston is a good coastal town to visit for students. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Isla Mujeres is not popular with students.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isla Mujeres is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Isla Mujeres has a few public transit options. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Isla Mujeres or Charleston a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres and Charleston both are great when exploring on foot.

Isla Mujeres is a very walkable island. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Charleston is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Both Isla Mujeres and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Isla Mujeres. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Charleston 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 Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

With shopping and nightlife around the relaxing island of Isla Mujeres, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isla Mujeres, one day is sufficent for most.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic coastal town offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Isla Mujeres, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Charleston is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Isla Mujeres, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Charleston, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this classic destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Isla Mujeres is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Charleston, 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.