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

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Miami?

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 Miami 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 scenic, idyllic, and wild city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Miami

Miami is a bustling, high energy, and glamorous beach city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Cabo San Lucas and Miami: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Miami. Although Cabo San Lucas and Miami are both popular with visitors, Miami has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Miami is more popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Cabo San Lucas is known for its museums & sights, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cabo San Lucas is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Miami is popular for its long sandy beaches, glitzy nightlife scene, diverse cultures, and award-winning restaurants. It is also home to South Beach.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Miami?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cabo San Lucas is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Miami does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Miami is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Miami have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's food scene is as diverse as its population. It is a blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and South American flavors and it is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. There is everything from award-winning restaurants to local dives that offer excellent dishes and experiences. The city is known for its stone crabs, fish sandwiches, Cuban sandwiches, and key lime pie.

Cabo San Lucas has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Cabo San Lucas or Miami has a better nightlife 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.

The nightlife in Miami is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. From the posh nightlife clubs in South Beach, to the local salsa dancing venues in Little Havana, Miami is a city that thrives with energy. There are many world-renowned clubs that keep the music and drinks flowing through the entire night. There's also a glitzy and glamourous scene where the wealthy like to see and be seen.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Music?

Miami is a world-class destination for live music. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Miami is a world class music destination. Popular live music venues include Ball and Chain, Cafe La Trova, Flamingo Theater Bar.

Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Resorts?

Miami is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Miami is a world class resort vacation destination. Known for it's luxury, you'll find many resorts in the area. Popular options include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Fontainebleau, and Carillon Miami.

There are plenty of resorts in Cabo San Lucas to choose from. 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.

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

Cabo San Lucas is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Miami 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.

Miami is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Beaches?

Miami is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Miami is considered to be a world-class beach destination. If you're looking for long sandy beaches, luxury yacht clubs, and fine dining restaurants, the area's beaches have them all. Some of the best beaches in the area include the world-famous South Beach, the North Beach Oceanside Park, Sunny Isles Beach, and Surfside. Many beaches are lined with high rise hotels that offer an urban beach experience.

Many people visit Cabo San Lucas for it's beautiful beaches. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its historic old town. However, Miami 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.

Miami does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Miami is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.

Miami is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Miami?

Miami is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Miami is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has every high end brand you could want, along with diverse neighborhoods with local finds and unique purchases. You'll find many diverse shopping opportunities that are influenced by the city's cultural scene. You'll also find many souvenir stands and t-shirt shops.

Cabo San Lucas is well-known for its shopping. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Families?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Miami are superb 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, Miami is very family-friendly. Because it's so big, you'll find a number of kid-friendly activities in the area. There's the Miami Zoo, various waterparks, the Everglades Alligator Park, Miccosukee Indian Village, and plenty of indoor playgrounds in case the weather doesn't cooperate.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Miami is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For couples who love nightlife, wining and dining, and high end beach clubs, this is the place to be. There are many award-winning restaurants and plenty of glitz and glam that make for a great romantic getaway.

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

Cabo San Lucas is well known for backpackers. Also, Miami is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

It's common for backpackers to visit Miami. This city is large enough to have something for everyone, so you'll find several hostels in the area that bring in the backpackers.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami Better for Students?

Miami is a beach city with good options for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Miami is popular with students. Spring break in Miami is the stuff of legends.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Cabo San Lucas and Miami.

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.

While Miami offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elevated metrorail as well as buses around the city.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Miami a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas and Miami both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Miami is a very walkable city. Many parts of city are surprisingly walkable and pedestrian friendly, allowing you to eat out, go shopping, or explore without the need for a car.

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

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

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Miami?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Miami have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 7 days is enough time in Miami.

Couples should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Miami. 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 Miami 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 Miami?

In Cabo San Lucas, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this wild destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Miami 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.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Miami?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cabo San Lucas. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Miami 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 Miami?

Cabo San Lucas is a fun place to experience. In Cabo San Lucas, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Miami. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Miami?

In Cabo San Lucas, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this adventurous destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Because Miami is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Mexico, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Mexico, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Miami?

Miami has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Miami, 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.