A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Charleston for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Charleston? 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. With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Charleston

Charleston is a quaint, historic, and classic coastal town. With stunning beauty, Charleston attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Charleston travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Charleston than Playa del Carmen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Charleston is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere, while Playa del Carmen attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Charleston and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Charleston 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 Charleston. 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.

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 Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Charleston is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. 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.

Is Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

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 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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a popular place for its music scene. However, Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Charleston is active and vibrant. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Resorts?

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

Playa del Carmen offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

People travel to Playa del Carmen specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Charleston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town 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 Playa del Carmen are among the best in the world. 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.

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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Charleston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen has hiking trails worth exploring. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Charleston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

Charleston is an amazing coastal town to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Charleston is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Charleston More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Playa del Carmen and Charleston.

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

Charleston is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The charming history, beautiful architecture, and historic churches all make this city one of the most beautiful in the southern United States.

Is Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town 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.

Playa del Carmen is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

Charleston is a family-friendly town. 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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Playa del Carmen and Charleston make for a fantastic place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Charleston has plenty to offer. 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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Playa del Carmen. 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.

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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a popular place for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Charleston is popular with 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.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Playa del Carmen 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.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO 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 Playa del Carmen or Charleston a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Charleston is very walkable. 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 Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

Both Playa del Carmen and Charleston 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 Charleston. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Charleston. 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.

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

One day in Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

With shopping and nightlife around the vibrant town of Playa del Carmen, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Playa del Carmen, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the charming coastal town of Charleston. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

Playa del Carmen, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Charleston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Charleston?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this town makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Charleston is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 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 Playa del Carmen and Charleston, we can see that Charleston 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 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 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 Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Charleston?

Charleston has a larger population, and is about 78% larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen 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.

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

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 Charleston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Charleston. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Charleston in the summer for the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston 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 Charleston during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun in the summer.

Charleston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Charleston. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Charleston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Charleston. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Playa del Carmen in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°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 Charleston. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 197 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 Charleston. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Charleston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 23°C (73°F), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Charleston. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Charleston in the Spring?

Both Charleston and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

In Charleston, 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 around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Charleston. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Playa del Carmen