A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Big Sur for Beaches, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit La Paz or Big Sur?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Big Sur 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

La Paz and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Big Sur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Big Sur are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Big Sur is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Big Sur is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is La Paz different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Big Sur and La Paz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Big Sur?

La Paz is great for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to La Paz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

Is the Food Better in La Paz or Big Sur? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

La Paz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

La Paz is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities La Paz has a few options to choose from. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Resorts?

La Paz is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

La Paz is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Big Sur?

La Paz is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Families?

La Paz is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Big Sur is a great natural area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

Is La Paz or Big Sur Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

While La Paz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is La Paz or Big Sur a more walkable city?

La Paz is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Big Sur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Big Sur. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

Couples should spend more time in La Paz than Big Sur. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Paz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Big Sur 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 La Paz.

One day in La Paz or Big Sur?

In La Paz, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Big Sur. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in La Paz or Big Sur?

In La Paz, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Paz has to offer.

Big Sur is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Big Sur?

La Paz is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Big Sur. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting La Paz. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the breathtaking destination of Big Sur. This natural area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Paz Expensive? and Is Big Sur Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit La Paz or Big Sur?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Big Sur in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, La Paz is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Big Sur averages at about 63°F (17°C).

La Paz usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Big Sur in the Autumn?

Both Big Sur and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Big Sur. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Paz or Big Sur in the Winter?

Both Big Sur and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Big Sur this time of year.

La Paz is much warmer than Big Sur in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Big Sur. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Big Sur in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Big Sur. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Big Sur averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Big Sur. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and La Paz