A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. Galveston for Nightlife, Couples, Attractions, and Beaches

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez 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.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a well-known, vibrant, and built-up city. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

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.

Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Acapulco de Juarez than Galveston, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Acapulco de Juarez is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Galveston is known for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Acapulco de Juarez is popular for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs. It is also home to the cliff divers of La Quebrada. Galveston is popular for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Galveston and Acapulco de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Galveston is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city 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 Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.


Is the Food Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Dining out at restaurants in both Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston can be an enjoyable experience.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Acapulco de Juarez area. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Acapulco de Juarez has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Galveston is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Acapulco de Juarez is a perfect choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


Is Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez is great for the beache. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Galveston is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Acapulco de Juarez 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.

Acapulco de Juarez does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Shopping is a popular activity in both Galveston and Acapulco de Juarez.

Many visitors go to Acapulco de Juarez to go shopping. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Families?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston.

Acapulco de Juarez is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Galveston is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez is an amazing city 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, Acapulco de Juarez has plenty to offer. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Acapulco de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez
Galveston

Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston both are good when exploring on foot.

Acapulco de Juarez is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Galveston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Galveston or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than in Galveston. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Acapulco de Juarez, and 1-3 days is enough time in Galveston.

Families should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Galveston. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Acapulco de Juarez, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Galveston. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Acapulco de Juarez that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez.


  • How many days in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acapulco de Juarez 3-5 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Acapulco de Juarez. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Galveston. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the well-known destination of Acapulco de Juarez. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Galveston is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic town of Galveston. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Galveston has to offer.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

You'll find nightlife and food around the vibrant city of Acapulco de Juarez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Galveston. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Galveston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston or Acapulco de Juarez?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Acapulco de Juarez is $81, while the average daily cost in Galveston is $183. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acapulco de Juarez $39
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acapulco de Juarez $78
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Acapulco de Juarez


Hotels in Galveston


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Acapulco de Juarez Hotel Prices and Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acapulco de Juarez $16
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Acapulco de Juarez

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Acapulco de Juarez:

  • Private Airport Transfer &on 2nd Day 4Hr TourAll AttractionsCombo: $90
  • Private Best Round Trip Airport - Hotel - Airport Transfer : $70
  • Airport Transfer in Suburban: $65
  • Transfer in private minivan from Bahía de Acapulco -Acapulco Airport (ACA): $32
  • Acapulco Airport Transfer: $10

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

Also for Galveston, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $194
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $194
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $194
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $168

Is it cheaper to fly into Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston and Acapulco de Juarez change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Acapulco de Juarez $29
    Galveston $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Acapulco de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Acapulco de Juarez.

  • High Divers DeLuxe Three Course Dinner +Three Drinks plus SUNSET: $49
  • Cliff Divers Exhibition 2 Drinks + Tacos al Pastor Dinner & Beer: $55
  • Lucha Libre-Wrestling Experience Taco Dinner Beer ONLY SATURDAYS: $72
  • Off the Beaten Path Mexican Cooking Class Lagoon Boatride &Lunch: $89
  • Hands On Mexican Cooking Class with Food Tasting & Market Visit: $100
  • Bella Vista PRIVATE Al Fresco 3 Course Dinner Cliff Diver3Drinks: $191
  • Super DeLuxe Bella Vista Dinner &1 Drink +2 Drinks at CliffDivers: $193
  • Divers Show and Luxury Dinner in Acapulco: $199

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galveston

For Galveston, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acapulco de Juarez $18
    Galveston $15

Tours and Activities in Acapulco de Juarez

Here are a few actual costs in Acapulco de Juarez for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Small-Group or Private All Inclusive 4 Hours City Tour & Divers: $36
  • 4 Hrs Exclusive to Cruise Ship Passengers Sightseeing Experience : $62
  • 4-6Hrs Acapulco City Tour With a Fun Guide. Diver Show, Mex Lunch: $47
  • 4Hrs Small Group Half Day City Tour with Lunch at High Divers: $85
  • 4hr City Tour For Cruises or Hotels Diver Peace Chapel & Mural: $40
  • 6Hr City Tour Cruise or Hotel Turtle Nesting High Diver & Market: $51
  • 6Hr Cruise or Hotels City Tour, Divers, Baby Turtles Peace Chapel: $51
  • 6Hr Cruisers or Hotels High Diver Peace Chapel BabyTurtleRelease: $50
  • Acapulco City Tour: $56
  • Acapulco City Tour : $35
  • Acapulco Highlights City Sightseeing Tour: $65
  • Acapulco Historical & Cultural Tour : $66

Tours and Activities in Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.73
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $12
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $16
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston Red Light District Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Great! Galveston Ghost Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acapulco de Juarez $11
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston, we can see that Galveston is more expensive. And not only is Acapulco de Juarez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Acapulco de Juarez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive? and Is Galveston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston?

Acapulco de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston in the Summer?

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

In July, Acapulco de Juarez is generally around the same temperature as Galveston. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 29°C (83°F), and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in July than Galveston. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acapulco de Juarez 29°C (83°F) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and Galveston. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Galveston in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than Galveston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and Galveston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Acapulco de Juarez gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than Galveston. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acapulco de Juarez 28°C (83°F) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as Galveston. Many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez 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, Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than Galveston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in January average around 26°C (79°F), and Galveston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in January than Galveston. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acapulco de Juarez 26°C (79°F) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or Galveston in the Spring?

Both Galveston and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Galveston because of the beaches and the small town charm.

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

In April, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than Galveston. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acapulco de Juarez 27°C (81°F) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (79°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 26°C (80°F) 1 mm (0 in) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 28°C (82°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 29°C (83°F) 271 mm (10.7 in) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 209 mm (8.2 in) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 312 mm (12.3 in) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 341 mm (13.4 in) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 28°C (83°F) 145 mm (5.7 in) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 28°C (82°F) 50 mm (2 in) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 27°C (80°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)