A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Grand Teton National Park for Nightlife, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

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 Grand Teton National Park 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 idyllic, wild, and adventurous city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Cabo San Lucas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cabo San Lucas is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its hiking. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Grand Teton National Park and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to Land's End. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Cabo San Lucas is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

If luxury resorts are your style, both Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park have excellent options.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Grand Teton National Park to choose from. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its beaches. However, Grand Teton National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its historic old town. However, Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.

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.

Grand Teton National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Grand Teton National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Both Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park 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, Grand Teton National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Both Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park are terrific destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Grand Teton National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

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

Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Cabo San Lucas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas
Grand Teton National Park

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its walkability. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

For even more information, also check out Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park. 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 Grand Teton National Park 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.


  • How many days in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cabo San Lucas 3-7 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the wild city of Cabo San Lucas. People enjoy 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the nightlife. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Grand Teton National Park?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Teton National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the nightlife. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Cabo San Lucas?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cabo San Lucas is $139, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cabo San Lucas $63
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cabo San Lucas $126
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park? 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 Cabo San Lucas


Hotels in Grand Teton National Park


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: Cabo San Lucas Hotel Prices and Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cabo San Lucas $28
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Los Cabos Airport (SJD): Transfer to Cabo San Lucas Port: $436
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Airport to Pacific Side: $300
  • Transfer from Airport to Cabo San Lucas: $300
  • Los Cabos Luxury Private Tesla Transfer from Airport to the Pacifica Area: $293
  • Private All Inclusive Diamante Area Roundtrip Airport Transfer: $280
  • Los Cabos Luxury Private Tesla Transfer from Airport to Cabo San Lucas Area: $261
  • Private Transfer from Accommodation to Restaurant in Los Cabos: $250
  • Private Transfer from Los Cabos Airport to Cabo San Lucas: $250
  • Private All Inclusive Cabo San Lucas Roundtrip Airport Transfer: $250
  • Private Transfer from Cabo San Lucas to La Paz: $240
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Airport to Cabo San Lucas: $240
  • Los Cabos Luxury Private Tesla Airport Transfer: $236

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

Also for Grand Teton National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Cabo San Lucas or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Cabo San Lucas 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
    Cabo San Lucas $51
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cabo San Lucas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cabo San Lucas.

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Domestic Open Bar: $64
  • Tasting Cabo San Lucas Like a Local Food Tour: $70
  • Cabo San Lucas Sunset Cruise with Dinner and Open Bar: $75
  • Seafood Galore, Los Cabos Food Tour: $80
  • Sea to Table Fisherman's Seafood Tour in Cabo San Lucas: $80
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Tequila & tacos: $85
  • San Jose del Cabo Morning Food Tour: $86
  • Parrillada dinner with a Private Chef in your villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose: $86
  • San José del Cabo for Meat Lovers Food Tour: $90
  • Catch of the day dinner in your private villa/condo in Cabo or San Jose del Cabo: $90
  • Private Mexican Cooking Class in Your Cabo San Lucas Villa or Condo: $90
  • Cabo Sunset Dinner Cruise: Fajitas, Lands End and Party: $94

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cabo San Lucas $43
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Cabo San Lucas

Here are a few actual costs in Cabo San Lucas for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Glass Bottom Boat Sightseeing Tour in Cabo San Lucas: $23
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour: $20
  • Magical Todos Santos Tour, Camel ranch, Lunch & Tequila: $119
  • OffRoad 4X4 UTV Adventure with Lunch & Tequila : $199
  • Romantic tour in Cabo San Lucas: $186
  • Round Trip to Touristic Corridor : $180
  • Traditional Tequila Tasting Experience with Jorge Cuervo: $55
  • Your Own Private Luxury Yacht Experience in Cabo, Lunch included: $1.20
  • #1 Snorkeling Tour in Catamaran. Open bar & Snacks included: $80
  • "Exclusive Cabo San Lucas Trimaran Experience with Snorkeling": $180
  • 2-Hour ATV Riding Experience in San Jose del Cabo: $110
  • 2-Hour Camel Ride Beach and Desert Adventure Experience: $100

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Grand Teton National Park.

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cabo San Lucas $28
    Grand Teton National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Cabo San Lucas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cabo San Lucas:

  • Cabo Bar Crawl - The BEST Bar and Clubs in Cabo : $55
  • Wine Tasting Sunset Cruise Tour in San Jose del Cabo: $190


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cabo San Lucas and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Grand Teton National Park 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 Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.