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

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Pensacola?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Pensacola? 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.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a entertaining, fun-filled, and active beach town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pensacola travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Pensacola: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Pensacola 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, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Pensacola is known for its museums and attractions and food. Playa del Carmen is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also home to La Quinta Avenida. Pensacola is popular for its white sand beaches and long running naval history.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Pensacola?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pensacola 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 Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

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 Pensacola? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pensacola is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Pensacola is an experience not to be missed. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

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 Pensacola Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Playa del Carmen just to party. 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 Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

Pensacola is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

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

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Playa del Carmen and Pensacola are world-class choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Pensacola is a very popular vacation destination. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

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.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Pensacola?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pensacola 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 Pensacola. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its kid-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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pensacola. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit 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.

Pensacola makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach 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 quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pensacola a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town 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.

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

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

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

How long in Playa del Carmen or Pensacola?

Both Playa del Carmen and Pensacola 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 Pensacola. 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 Pensacola. 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 Pensacola. 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola?

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 fun-filled destination of Pensacola. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Pensacola?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic 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 entertaining beach town of Pensacola. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. 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 Pensacola?

You'll find nightlife and food around the stunning 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.

Pensacola is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Pensacola?

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.

Pensacola is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Pensacola?

Pensacola 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 Pensacola, 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 Pensacola?

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 Pensacola in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Pensacola. 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 Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Pensacola 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 Pensacola. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Pensacola receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Pensacola. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Pensacola in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Pensacola in the autumn. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Pensacola fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

It's quite rainy in Pensacola. Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Pensacola. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Pensacola receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.

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

Both Pensacola and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Pensacola for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Pensacola. Typically, the winter temperatures in Playa del Carmen in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Pensacola averages at about 51°F (10°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Pensacola. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Pensacola receives 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Pensacola and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the beaches.

In April, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Pensacola. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 27°C (81°F), and Pensacola fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Pensacola. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pensacola receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season. Also, June to November in Pensacola is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Pensacola and Playa del Carmen