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

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Galveston?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Galveston? 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 picture-perfect, scenic, and stunning town. The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Galveston

Galveston is a coastal, historic, and charming town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Galveston travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Galveston: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Galveston 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, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Galveston is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and small town charm. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Galveston and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also home to La Quinta Avenida. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Galveston is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Galveston offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.

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 Galveston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Galveston 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 Galveston. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Galveston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect 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.

Galveston is not a resort destination.

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

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

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. 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.

Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for the beach. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Galveston is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Galveston offers a nice historic old town area. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for hiking. However, Galveston is not a hiking destination.

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.

Galveston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Galveston?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Galveston 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 Galveston. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Galveston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Galveston is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. 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.

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is generally limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is Playa del Carmen or Galveston a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Galveston is a somewhat walkable town. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.

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

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

How long in Playa del Carmen or Galveston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Playa del Carmen and Galveston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Galveston. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Galveston.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Galveston. 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 Galveston. 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 Playa del Carmen than Galveston 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 Galveston?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Playa del Carmen. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Galveston. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the picture-perfect destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal town of Galveston. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. 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 Galveston?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic town of Playa del Carmen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Galveston is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Playa del Carmen or Galveston?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Galveston is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Galveston?

Galveston has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Galveston, 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 Galveston?

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 Playa del Carmen or Galveston in the Summer?

Both Galveston and Playa del Carmen during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Playa del Carmen is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 28°C (82°F), and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Galveston. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galveston in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Galveston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Galveston. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Galveston. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Galveston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Galveston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Playa del Carmen in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Galveston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Galveston. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Galveston and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Galveston. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 27°C (81°F), and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Galveston. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Galveston and Playa del Carmen