A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Williamsburg for Nightlife, Old Town, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg 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. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a quaint, well-preserved, and historic town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Cabo San Lucas and Williamsburg: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas than Williamsburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cabo San Lucas is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Williamsburg is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Williamsburg and is known for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Cabo San Lucas is famous for Land's End. Williamsburg is well known for its historic and colonial charm, its award winning amusement parks, and its historical reenactments.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Williamsburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Williamsburg 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 Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg is like a living museum with reenactments and historic buildings that date back to the colonial days. In addition to the historic area, there are folk art museums and other historic sights in the area.

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 Williamsburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Cabo San Lucas and Williamsburg both to be very good destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cabo San Lucas makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Williamsburg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to Historic Williamsburg if you want to try some colonial classics. There are historic taverns that maintain their old world charm and serve dishes such as peanut soup and stewed beef. Around town you'll also find casual restaurants with pizza, macaroni and cheese, and burgers.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

Williamsburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Despite its student population, there isn't much of a nightlife scene in town. There are restaurants where you can enjoy fine wine or cocktails, but nightclubs and bars are limited.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its resorts. However, Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

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.

Williamsburg is not a resort destination.

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

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

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.

Williamsburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for the beach. However, Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

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.

Williamsburg is not a beach destination.

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

Williamsburg is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The historic old town of Williamsburg is revered around the world. Colonial Williamsburg is an impressively maintained area with museums, shops, and taverns. There are live reenactments of historic events as well as blacksmiths, wig shops, and carriage rides. You can wander around without a ticket, but for access to many parts of the historic area you'll need to purchase a pass.

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.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg Better for Hiking?

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

Williamsburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is well-known for its shopping. Charming shops both in the historic area and just outside sell unique items that reflect the city's past. There are souvenirs, food items, cookbooks, and home decor to choose from.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg Better for Families?

Williamsburg 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.

Williamsburg is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Older kids will appreciate the history in the area. For kids of all ages there are a number of amusement parks and water parks such as Great Wolf Lodge, Busch Gardens, and the award winning Water Country USA.

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 Williamsburg Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Williamsburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Cabo San Lucas is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Williamsburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Historic Williamsburg is filled with inns and charming restaurants that make this a beautiful destination for couples. There are quaint restaurants that serve colonial food and interesting southern shops with unique trinkets. You can also wander around the campus of William and Mary College.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for backpackers. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Williamsburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a number of restaurants and bars that cater to the student population, but there's little else that attracts backpackers.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg Better for Students?

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

Williamsburg is a very popular town for students. The College of William and Mary has a beautiful campus and students enjoy the charming atmosphere with colonial architecture around town. There are also good restaurants and a great collegiate vibe.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for its public transit. However, Williamsburg is a 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 Williamsburg. There are buses around town, and they offer access to Historic Williamsburg, but for most places you'll need to have your own car.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Williamsburg is a town with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Williamsburg is generally not a very walkable city. Historic Williamsburg and the neighborhoods around the College of William and Mary are all walkable, but if you plan to visit the amusement parks then you'll absolutely need a car.

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

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

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 2-4 days is enough time in Williamsburg.

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

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

In Cabo San Lucas, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this adventurous 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.

In Williamsburg, you'll find food and shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Williamsburg?

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.

Williamsburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg?

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 Williamsburg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Williamsburg. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

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

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 Williamsburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Williamsburg?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Williamsburg. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Williamsburg, 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.