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

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or San Diego?

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 San Diego 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. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Diego

San Diego is a idyllic, fun-filled, and hip coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cabo San Lucas and San Diego: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego. Although Cabo San Lucas and San Diego are popular destinations, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is very popular for its museums & sights, music, beaches, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Cabo San Lucas attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cabo San Lucas is famous for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. San Diego is famous for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Diego 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 San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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 Cabo San Lucas or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cabo San Lucas is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Cabo San Lucas is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great destination for live music. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

San Diego has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

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

Cabo San Lucas is great for its diving and snorkeling. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Beaches?

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

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

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 San Diego Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Hiking?

Both Cabo San Lucas and San Diego are destinations which offer very good hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or San Diego?

Cabo San Lucas is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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.

San Diego is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 San Diego Better for Couples?

Both Cabo San Lucas and San Diego are fantastic 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.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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

Cabo San Lucas is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is a world-class destination for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular coastal city for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination 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 generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Cabo San Lucas or San Diego a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

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

How long in Cabo San Lucas or San Diego?

In either Cabo San Lucas or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Cabo San Lucas. People often spend their time 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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 San Diego?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the wild destination of Cabo San Lucas. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

San Diego 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 San Diego?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the scenic city of Cabo San Lucas. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. 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 beaches. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or San Diego?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cabo San Lucas, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the coastal city of San Diego. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and San Diego, 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.