A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Kennebunkport for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport? 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.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Mazatlan and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Kennebunkport are popular destinations, Mazatlan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mazatlan is very popular for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Kennebunkport attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Mazatlan is great for its historical sights. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Kennebunkport both to be high quality destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Kennebunkport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Mazatlan and Kennebunkport.

Mazatlan has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Kennebunkport is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few good snorkeling spots. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is great for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is great for its historic old town. However, Kennebunkport does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Kennebunkport does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Kennebunkport is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Kennebunkport is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly town. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Kennebunkport frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Mazatlan is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mazatlan is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.

Is Mazatlan or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is great for its walkability. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Mazatlan is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable.

Kennebunkport is a somewhat walkable place. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Kennebunkport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Mazatlan or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mazatlan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Kennebunkport 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historical destination of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kennebunkport is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kennebunkport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the authentic destination of Mazatlan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Mazatlan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Kennebunkport, 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.

When is the best time to visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Mazatlan during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

In July, Mazatlan is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 29°C (83°F), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the summer, Mazatlan often gets less sunshine than Kennebunkport. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Kennebunkport. The shopping scene are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during autumn. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Mazatlan usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kennebunkport. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Kennebunkport. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Mazatlan is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mazatlan in January average around 20°C (67°F), and Kennebunkport averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the winter, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Kennebunkport. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

Both Kennebunkport and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 22°C (72°F), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

It's quite sunny in Kennebunkport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during spring. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Mazatlan