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

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Panama City?

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 Panama City 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 Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Panama City

Panama City is a fun-filled, active, and cosmopolitan beach town. Panama City is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Panama City travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Panama City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Panama City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Panama City are popular destinations, Cabo San Lucas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cabo San Lucas is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Panama City attracts visitors for its music. Cabo San Lucas is famous for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for Land's End. Panama City is famous for its watersports, sandy beaches, and year-round beach weather.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Panama City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cabo San Lucas is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Panama City 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.

Panama City does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Panama City is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are many waterfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood. Head to town for a charming atmosphere or grab a bite at a casual eatery. Fried seafood is popular when eating out but you'll also find plenty of options for land-lovers. Most restaurants also have kid-friendly menus.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Cabo San Lucas has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Panama City has something for everybody. The nightlife is particular crazy during spring break, when the town fills with students. Head to the famous Club La Vela or Spinnaker for music and fun at night.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Music?

Panama City is a beach town with good options for live music. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Panama City. A popular way to enjoy music in the area is to find a restaurant with a lounge where local musicians perform.

Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Panama City has a few great resort options. Most people stay in condos that are VRBO's or Airbnbs, but there are resorts in the area as well.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Panama City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Beaches?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Panama City are considered to be high quality beach destinations.

The beaches at Cabo San Lucas attract visitors from all over. 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.

Many people visit Panama City for it's beautiful beaches. With miles of long white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters, this area's beaches offer a beautiful escape. Head to the area's state parks for the most natural experience. These include St. Andrews State Park and Camp Helen State Park. A day trip to Shell Island is also popular.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its old town. However, Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas to see the historical old town. 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.

Panama City does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Panama City 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.

Panama City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Panama City?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Panama City has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of malls and shopping centers in the area.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Panama City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Panama City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With beautiful sand and blue water, Panama City is a beautiful spot for people who enjoy city beaches.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Families?

Panama City is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Panama City is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. This area has large sandy beaches, waterparks, amusement parks, and marine parks. Kids will enjoy playing around at WonderWorks, cooling off at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, and learning about marine life at Gulf World Marine Park. There are also many watersports and water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cabo San Lucas is very family-friendly. 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 Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Couples?

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

Cabo San Lucas has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Panama City is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful beaches and romantic restaurants make for a great romantic getaway. This is the perfect place to take sunset walks along the beach and sample freshly caught local seafood.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for backpackers. However, Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Panama City is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Panama City. It's not the spring break destination that it once was, but you'll still find students hanging out around the spring holidays.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Panama City. Most people need a car in Panama City but there is a trolley service that connects major tourist areas.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Panama City a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Panama City is a beach town with minimal 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.

Panama City is not a very walkable city. There's often construction and the streets aren't designed for pedestrians.

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

Should I spend more time in Panama City or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Panama City?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Panama City 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 Panama City. 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 Panama City. 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 Panama City. 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 Panama City 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 Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the idyllic city of Cabo San Lucas. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Panama City, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the adventurous destination of Cabo San Lucas. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Panama City is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous city of Cabo San Lucas. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Panama City. 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 Panama City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Panama City, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Panama City?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Panama City. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Panama City, 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.