A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Olympic National Park for Resorts, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

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 Olympic National Park. 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 idyllic, relaxing, and laid back island. Isla Mujeres is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a pristine, stunning, and vast park. The beauty of Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking and museums. See Olympic National Park travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres than Olympic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Isla Mujeres is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Olympic National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isla Mujeres is well known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. Also, Isla Mujeres is famous for the Underwater Museum of Art. Olympic National Park is well known for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

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 Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. 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.

Olympic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

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.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Olympic National Park. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.


Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Olympic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Olympic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Olympic National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Isla Mujeres. 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.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.

Olympic National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

Isla Mujeres is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The diversity of landscapes give the park a unique beauty. You can explore old growth rainforests, wander down pristine beaches, or take in the stunning mountain views.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Olympic National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.


Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for couples.

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Isla Mujeres is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

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

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its public transit. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.


Is Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres
Olympic National Park

Isla Mujeres is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its ease of walking around.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable island. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Olympic National Park or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

In either Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than Isla Mujeres because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Olympic National Park. 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 Isla Mujeres than Olympic National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Isla Mujeres that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Olympic National Park 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.


  • How many days in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isla Mujeres 1-2 
    Olympic National Park 2-5

One day in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

In Isla Mujeres, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Isla Mujeres, one day is sufficent for most.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums that this vast park offers. 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park 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 hiking. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

Isla Mujeres is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Olympic National Park, many people enjoy the museums that this pristine destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Isla Mujeres. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Olympic National Park 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic National Park or Isla Mujeres?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Isla Mujeres Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Olympic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Isla Mujeres $164
    Olympic National Park $150

The average daily cost (per person) in Isla Mujeres is $164, while the average daily cost in Olympic National Park is $150. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Isla Mujeres and Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isla Mujeres $71
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isla Mujeres $142
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Isla Mujeres and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Isla Mujeres


Hotels in Olympic National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Isla Mujeres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $32
    Olympic National Park $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isla Mujeres

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Isla Mujeres:

  • Punta Sam / Isla Blanca to Cancún Airport (CUN)- Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • Cancun–Ferry Round-Trip + Hotel Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer: Playa Mujeres to Cancun Airport CUN in SUV: $136

Is it cheaper to fly into Isla Mujeres or Olympic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Olympic National Park and Isla Mujeres change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Isla Mujeres $72
    Olympic National Park $61

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isla Mujeres $19
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Isla Mujeres

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Isla Mujeres are as follows:

  • Chill at -18°C Isla Mujeres Ice Bar (tickets): $25
  • Excursion Crystal Boat Tour at the Caribbean: $29
  • Tour Isla Mujeres excursion in Collective Transparent Boat: $38
  • Crystal Boat Tour to Isla Mujeres and Reefs: $39
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Adventure at the Underwater Museum: $52
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour Adventure: $53
  • Snorkel Tour at Musa and Manchones Reef: $55
  • Transparent Boat Tour from Isla Mujeres: $60
  • UNDER WATER MUSEUM CANCUN SNORKEL ISLA MUJERES - Experience with Ticket: $65
  • Airboat Adventure: $80
  • Isla Mujeres Snorkeling Tour: $84
  • 3 Hours VIP Semiprivate Tour Isla Mujeres Full Snorkeling Experience : $84

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Olympic National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Olympic National Park: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isla Mujeres $23
    Olympic National Park $5.57


When comparing the travel costs between Isla Mujeres and Olympic National Park, we can see that Isla Mujeres is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.


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