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

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

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 Nantucket. 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 laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. Isla Mujeres is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Nantucket

Nantucket is a charming, serene, and peaceful island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nantucket travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Nantucket: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nantucket. Although Isla Mujeres and Nantucket are popular destinations, Nantucket has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nantucket is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Isla Mujeres attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Isla Mujeres is famous for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Nantucket is famous for its pristine beaches, upscale atmosphere, and history of whaling. It is also well known for Great Point Lighthouse.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Nantucket?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nantucket offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums around town that educate visitors on the island's whaling history and maritime past.

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 Nantucket? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantucket 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 Nantucket, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Upscale eateries where you can look out on the water make dining on this island a true experience. There are raw bars, seafood restaurants, and local cafes with elaborate salads and duck carnitas. Dishes usually use the highest quality fresh ingredients and chefs bring their "A game" with every customer.

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 Nantucket Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Isla Mujeres and Nantucket.

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 Nantucket. You'll find a number of bars and a lively singles scene in town. There's also live music and a laid back but active atmosphere in the evening.

Is Isla Mujeres or Nantucket Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Isla Mujeres is a perfect choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Nantucket is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and upscale inns offer guests a relaxed setting with oceanfront views and family-friendly activities.

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

Isla Mujeres is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Isla Mujeres is not to be missed. 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.

Nantucket is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Nantucket Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its beaches. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Isla Mujeres is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Nantucket. You'll find the calmest water at the northern beaches, and cooler water with rougher surf to the south. Many of the beaches are accessible from town, but parking can be limited. There are both public and private beaches, each with beautiful settings and relaxing vibes.

Is Isla Mujeres or Nantucket Better for its Old Town?

Nantucket is notable for its old town. However, Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Nantucket. The Historic District is filled with New England charm, cobblestone streets, and upscale boutiques. There are many great restaurants and a lot of historic character.

Isla Mujeres does not have a historic old town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Nantucket Better for Hiking?

Nantucket is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Nantucket is a popular spot for hiking. The island is easy to explore on foot, and its covered with hiking trails that follow the serene coastline or take you through forests, bogs, and marshland.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

Nantucket is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Nantucket is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Historic District is filled with boutiques, art galleries, and upscale shops. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around and shopping.

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 Nantucket More Beautiful?

Nantucket 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 Nantucket is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Natural beauty and charming character make this a picturesque destination.

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 Nantucket Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nantucket is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Nantucket is a very kid-friendly island. There's a calm beach that's perfect for kids as well as quaint ice cream shops and plenty of New England charm. The town is also filled with hiking and biking trails.

Is Isla Mujeres or Nantucket Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres and Nantucket both first-rate 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.

Nantucket makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The New England charm, natural beauty, and relaxing coastal atmosphere make this a perfect romantic destination. There are also many romantic places to stay and great local restaurants.

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

Isla Mujeres is a great island for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantucket is not known for backpackers.

Isla Mujeres is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Nantucket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's known for its upscale atmosphere that isn't particularly accommodating for backpackers.

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

Both Isla Mujeres and Nantucket offer nice public transit options.

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

Nantucket has some public transit options. There are shuttle buses around the island that operate with greater frequency during the summer months.

Is Isla Mujeres or Nantucket a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres and Nantucket both are high quality 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.

Nantucket is a very walkable destination. The town is very walkable and parking can be challenging, so it's best to leave your car in the ferry parking lot.

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

Should I spend more time in Nantucket or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Nantucket. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nantucket due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-4 days is enough time in Nantucket.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Nantucket. 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 Nantucket than Isla Mujeres. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantucket 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 Nantucket 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 Nantucket?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the island of Isla Mujeres. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isla Mujeres has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantucket is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Nantucket?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid back destination of Isla Mujeres. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nantucket is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the food. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing island of Isla Mujeres. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nantucket is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

Isla Mujeres is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nantucket is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and Nantucket, we can see that Nantucket 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 Nantucket would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantucket 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 Nantucket Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Nantucket?

Nantucket has a larger population, and is about 18% larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Nantucket, 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.