A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Adirondack Mountains for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains? 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a scenic, stunning, and vibrant town. The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a pristine, scenic, and serene region. With stunning beauty, Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Adirondack Mountains are both popular with visitors, Playa del Carmen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Playa del Carmen is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Adirondack Mountains is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, and hiking. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Adirondack Mountains and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also home to La Quinta Avenida. Adirondack Mountains is popular for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Adirondack Mountains and Playa del Carmen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for winter skiing. However, Playa del Carmen is not a skiing destination.

Head to Adirondack Mountains for some great skiing and other winter activities. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Playa del Carmen is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Adirondack Mountains. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Adirondack Mountains can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Adirondack Mountains. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its evening party scene.

Playa del Carmen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Adirondack Mountains. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Playa del Carmen is a great choice. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Adirondack Mountains. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Playa del Carmen a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Adirondack Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for the beach. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Playa del Carmen. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Adirondack Mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Adirondack Mountains and Playa del Carmen.

Many visitors go to Playa del Carmen to go shopping. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Adirondack Mountains. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Playa del Carmen and Adirondack Mountains.

With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Adirondack Mountains is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Playa del Carmen is a very family-friendly destination. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Adirondack Mountains. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Playa del Carmen makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Adirondack Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is quite limited in Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.

Is Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Playa del Carmen on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable town. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Playa del Carmen and Adirondack Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Playa del Carmen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Adirondack Mountains. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Adirondack Mountains. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Playa del Carmen that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Playa del Carmen 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 Adirondack Mountains.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Playa del Carmen. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the serene destination of Adirondack Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Playa del Carmen is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the pristine region of Adirondack Mountains. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Playa del Carmen for five days. Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the beautiful town of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Playa del Carmen. Many people spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, one week is sufficent for most.

Adirondack Mountains is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Playa del Carmen Expensive? and Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Adirondack Mountains. The summer months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

In July, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 28°C (82°F), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Adirondack Mountains this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Adirondack Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Adirondack Mountains. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the autumn, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in October than Adirondack Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Adirondack Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Playa del Carmen in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 18°F (-8°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Adirondack Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 27°C (81°F), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the spring, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Adirondack Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Playa del Carmen