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

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a wild, adventurous, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a breathtaking, adventurous, and scenic ski resort. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge are popular destinations, Cabo San Lucas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cabo San Lucas is very popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Breckenridge attracts visitors for its skiing, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Breckenridge and is known for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for Land's End. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Breckenridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Breckenridge. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Cabo San Lucas is not a skiing destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cabo San Lucas. 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.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Cabo San Lucas just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

Cabo San Lucas is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Cabo San Lucas is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Breckenridge has an old town worth visiting. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular spot for hiking. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Breckenridge and Cabo San Lucas.

Cabo San Lucas is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Breckenridge is well-known for its shopping. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Cabo San Lucas does not offer Christmas activities.

Breckenridge is a world class destination for shoppers. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Cabo San Lucas does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge is a great destination for its Christmas markets. However, Cabo San Lucas does not offer Christmas markets.

Breckenridge offers plenty of Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Cabo San Lucas does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Families?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge are excellent to visit with kids.

Cabo San Lucas is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Breckenridge is very family-friendly. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for couples.

Cabo San Lucas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Breckenridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

Cabo San Lucas has a few public transit options. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge a more walkable city?

Breckenridge is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Breckenridge on foot is easy. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

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

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Cabo San Lucas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Breckenridge. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Breckenridge 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 Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

In Cabo San Lucas, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Breckenridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

Cabo San Lucas is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

In Cabo San Lucas, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this adventurous destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Breckenridge. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Breckenridge is a small town with plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the skiing. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge, we can see that Breckenridge is more expensive. And not only is Cabo San Lucas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cabo San Lucas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cabo San Lucas 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 Breckenridge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Breckenridge than you might in Cabo San Lucas.

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

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Breckenridge?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Breckenridge, 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.