A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Auckland vs. Cabo San Lucas for Nightlife, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Cabo San Lucas can help you decide which place is right for you.

Auckland

Auckland is a thrill-seeking, cosmopolitan , and adventurous city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Auckland travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a adventurous, scenic, and idyllic city. Cabo San Lucas is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Auckland and Cabo San Lucas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Auckland. Although Auckland and Cabo San Lucas are popular destinations, Auckland has more sights and attractions for tourists. Auckland is very popular for its museums and attractions and big city activities, while Cabo San Lucas attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Auckland and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Auckland is famous for its waterfront setting, diverse beaches, and active and adrenaline-filled environment. It is also well known for the Sky Tower.

How is Auckland different from Cabo San Lucas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cabo San Lucas and Auckland. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Auckland is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Auckland. The waterfront is filled with sights for tourists, and many of the city's attractions are geared towards thrill seekers. The Sky Tower is a popular landmark with its Sky Walk and Sky Jump. There are also many thrilling experiences that you can have along the Harbour Bridge. For museums, head to the New Zealand Maritime Museum, the Auckland Art Gallery, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum.

Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Is the Food Better in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Auckland and Cabo San Lucas offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Auckland has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has a diverse selection of restaurants, but you'll also find many places that highlight local ingredients such as seafood and lamb. You'll often find the standard dishes such as fish and chips, oysters, and green-lipped mussels on the menus.

Dining out in Cabo San Lucas is an experience not to be missed. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Cabo San Lucas is a world class party destination. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

The people in Auckland know how to have a good time. The city has a cosmopolitan atmosphere and there are many bars and clubs that you can explore in the evening. Some of the best nightlife options are found in the vibrant Britomart precinct and around the trendy Ponsonby Road. Other popular areas include Viaduct Harbour and Wynyard Quarter.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Auckland is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cabo San Lucas. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

Auckland is not a resort destination.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Cabo San Lucas. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

Auckland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Beaches?

Auckland and Cabo San Lucas are superb choices for a beach vacation.

Auckland is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You don't have to head too far from the city to find some impressive beaches that are diverse and beautiful. There are beaches that are secluded and private as well as more lively beaches with all of the amenities and activities that you might want.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cabo San Lucas. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Auckland does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cabo San Lucas. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Auckland does not have a historic old town.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cabo San Lucas. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Auckland has hiking trails worth exploring. Locals love to get outdoors, and you'll find many local hikes in the area. There are easy paths that are family-friendly and perfect for a stroll, as well as longer stretches that present more of a challenge.

Is the Shopping Better in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Auckland and Cabo San Lucas.

Auckland is well-known for its shopping. The city centre is cosmopolitan and full of diverse shopping venues that sell international brands as well as local designers. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Britomart, High Street, and Queen Street.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cabo San Lucas. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cabo San Lucas is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Auckland is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Auckland or Cabo San Lucas.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Auckland is very family-friendly. There's a big focus on getting kids outside in the city, so you'll find many outdoor parks and play spaces. Popular activities for families include visiting the Huia Lodge Discovery Centre, going to the Museum of Transport and Technology, and wandering through the botanical garden.

Cabo San Lucas is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Auckland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Cabo San Lucas has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Couples visit Auckland frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many romantic restaurants in the city, as well as spas, cocktail bars, and evening venues. Couples will also enjoy one of the many thrill-seeking activities that New Zealand is famous for.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Auckland and Cabo San Lucas are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Auckland. Auckland is high on many backpackers' wish list, and usually they pass through the city at some point during their trip. You'll find a number of hostels in the city that are perfect for socializing and saving money.

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Students?

Auckland is a great destination for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Auckland. Some of the country's best universities are found in the city, many of which are popular with international students.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Auckland and Cabo San Lucas.

Auckland has some public transit options. There's a mishmash of different public transit options, and trips often include a variety of modes of transport. In the city you'll find ferries, trains, and buses to help you get around.

You'll find some public transit in Cabo San Lucas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Is Auckland or Cabo San Lucas a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Auckland is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Cabo San Lucas is a very walkable city. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

Auckland is generally not very walkable. It is a very car-centric city and it can be challenging to explore on foot alone.

For even more information, also check out Is Auckland Worth Visiting? and Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cabo San Lucas or Auckland?

How long in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Both Auckland and Cabo San Lucas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than in Auckland. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Auckland, and 3-7 days is enough time in Cabo San Lucas.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Auckland 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 Cabo San Lucas.

One day in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Because Auckland is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful city of Cabo San Lucas offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Auckland is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auckland. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cabo San Lucas, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Auckland. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Cabo San Lucas is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cabo San Lucas has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to New Zealand, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.

When comparing the travel costs between Auckland and Cabo San Lucas, we can see that Auckland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Auckland is in Pacific and Cabo San Lucas is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Auckland Expensive? and Is Cabo San Lucas Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Auckland or Cabo San Lucas?

Auckland has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Auckland and Cabo San Lucas, 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.