A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Acapulco de Juarez vs. San Diego for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

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

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego? 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Acapulco de Juarez travel costs.

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See San Diego travel costs.

Acapulco de Juarez and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego than Acapulco de Juarez, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. San Diego is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, beaches, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Acapulco de Juarez is known for its nightlife, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling. San Diego is more touristy than Acapulco de Juarez and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Acapulco de Juarez is popular for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs.

How is Acapulco de Juarez different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Diego is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in San Diego is an experience not to be missed. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

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

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Acapulco de Juarez is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great destination for its music scene. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a live music destination.

San Diego has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a live music destination.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Acapulco de Juarez for its luxury resorts. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

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

Acapulco de Juarez is great for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific 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.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Diego 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 San Diego. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego More Beautiful?

San Diego is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Acapulco de Juarez and San Diego make for a amazing place to visit.

Acapulco de Juarez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

For those traveling as a couple, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a popular place for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for students. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

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

Acapulco de Juarez is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego a more walkable city?

Acapulco de Juarez and San Diego 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.

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Acapulco de Juarez?

How long in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

In either Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Acapulco de Juarez. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

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 live music and food when visiting the energetic destination of San Diego. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the beaches. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

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.

San Diego is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the dynamic coastal city of San Diego. Most people visit for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the well-known 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of San Diego. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the beaches. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Diego has to offer.

A week in Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

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.

San Diego is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Acapulco de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Acapulco de Juarez and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Acapulco de Juarez during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to San Diego because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Acapulco de Juarez is generally a little warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 29°C (83°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Acapulco de Juarez. In the summer, Acapulco de Juarez often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Acapulco de Juarez gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Acapulco de Juarez gets 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Acapulco de Juarez and San Diego. The autumn months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

Acapulco de Juarez is a little warmer than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Acapulco de Juarez averages around 28°C (83°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Acapulco de Juarez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during autumn. Acapulco de Juarez gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Acapulco de Juarez gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives more rain than San Diego. Acapulco de Juarez gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Acapulco de Juarez as well as San Diego. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to San Diego for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Acapulco de Juarez is much warmer than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez in January average around 26°C (79°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Acapulco de Juarez this time of the year. In the winter, Acapulco de Juarez often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Acapulco de Juarez gets 272 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Acapulco de Juarez usually gets less rain in January than San Diego. Acapulco de Juarez gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Acapulco de Juarez or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Acapulco de Juarez are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Acapulco de Juarez for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Acapulco de Juarez is generally much warmer than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Acapulco de Juarez average around 27°C (81°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. Acapulco de Juarez usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during spring. Acapulco de Juarez gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Acapulco de Juarez usually receives less rain than San Diego. Acapulco de Juarez gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Acapulco de Juarez