A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Nags Head for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Nags Head?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Nags Head? 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. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Nags Head

Other popular activities here include nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Nags Head: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Nags Head?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Nags Head, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Nags Head and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Nags Head is well known for

How is Playa del Carmen different from Nags Head?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Playa del Carmen is adequate for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Nags Head? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Nags Head can be difficult as they are each notable 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 Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Nags Head has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Nags Head is not a resort destination.

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

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its beaches. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen is a good destination for hiking. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Nags Head?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head More Beautiful?

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

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head Better for Families?

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

Nags Head is a very kid-friendly town. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head Better for Couples?

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

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.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

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

Playa del Carmen and Nags Head are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Nags Head is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented travelers.

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

Playa del Carmen is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head 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 limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Playa del Carmen or Nags Head a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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.

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Should I spend more time in Nags Head or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Nags Head?

Both Playa del Carmen and Nags Head 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 Nags Head. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 4-7 days is enough time in Nags Head.

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

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 nightlife around the activity-filled destination of Nags Head. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Nags Head?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the vibrant 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 nightlife and food around the fun-filled of Nags Head. 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 Nags Head?

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.

Nags Head is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. 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 Nags Head?

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.

Nags Head is a great place to explore. 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 Nags Head, we can see that Nags Head 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 Nags Head would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nags Head 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 Nags Head Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Nags Head?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Nags Head. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Nags Head, 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 Nags Head?

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 Nags Head in the Summer?

Both Nags Head and Playa del Carmen during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nags Head this time of year.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Nags Head. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Nags Head averages at about 78°F (26°C).

In Nags Head, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the summer, Playa del Carmen often gets less sunshine than Nags Head. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 274 hours of full sun.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in July than Nags Head. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Nags Head receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Nags Head in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Nags Head. 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.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Nags Head. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), and Nags Head fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nags Head this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Nags Head during autumn. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Nags Head. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Nags Head in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Nags Head. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Nags Head in the winter for the cuisine.

Nags Head can get quite cold in the winter. Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Nags Head in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Nags Head fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the winter, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Nags Head. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nags Head receives 147 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Nags Head. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Nags Head receives 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Nags Head in the Spring?

Both Nags Head and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Nags Head. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Nags Head averages at about 59°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nags Head during spring. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Nags Head receives 262 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Nags Head. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Nags Head receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Nags Head and Playa del Carmen