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

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Pocono 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.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Pocono Mountains: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen. Although Playa del Carmen and Pocono 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, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, and hiking. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also home to La Quinta Avenida. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Pocono Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for winter skiing. However, Playa del Carmen is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Playa del Carmen is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

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 Pocono Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

Playa del Carmen is a world class party destination. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

Playa del Carmen is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

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

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Hiking?

Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

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 Pocono Mountains?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and 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.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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 Pocono Mountains. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

Is Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for couples.

Playa del Carmen is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

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

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

Pocono Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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 Pocono Mountains Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono 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 mostly limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

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

Playa del Carmen is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Pocono 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.

Pocono Mountains is generally not a very walkable town. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

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

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

How long in Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains?

Both Playa del Carmen and Pocono 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 Pocono 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 Pocono 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 Pocono 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 Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning destination of Playa del Carmen. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the picture-perfect town of Playa del Carmen. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the relaxing region of Pocono Mountains. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Pocono Mountains?

Playa del Carmen 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.

Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains?

Playa del Carmen 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. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Pocono 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 Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Pocono Mountains?

Playa del Carmen has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Pocono Mountains, 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 Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Pocono Mountains. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 28°C (82°F), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

Pocono Mountains 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 more rain than Pocono Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Pocono Mountains. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Pocono Mountains in the autumn. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 55°F (13°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 Pocono Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 168 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 Pocono Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains 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.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. In the winter, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Typically, the winter temperatures in Playa del Carmen in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Pocono Mountains averages at about 28°F (-2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Pocono Mountains during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Pocono Mountains receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Pocono Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Pocono Mountains and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In April, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Pocono Mountains. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 27°C (81°F), and Pocono Mountains fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Pocono 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 Pocono Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pocono Mountains receives 213 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Pocono Mountains. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pocono Mountains receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Pocono Mountains and Playa del Carmen