A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Clearwater for Beaches, Attractions, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit La Paz or Clearwater?

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 Clearwater 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 cultural, beautiful, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a relaxing, beautiful, and outdoorsy coastal city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

La Paz and Clearwater: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in La Paz or Clearwater?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz than Clearwater. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. La Paz is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and shopping, while Clearwater attracts visitors for its resorts. La Paz is famous for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Clearwater is famous for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports.

How is La Paz different from Clearwater?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Clearwater

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both La Paz and Clearwater.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Clearwater. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.


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

La Paz
Clearwater

Foodies will find both La Paz and Clearwater both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. 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.

Clearwater has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Is La Paz or Clearwater Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Clearwater

Evening events are nice in both La Paz and Clearwater.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

Is La Paz or Clearwater Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Clearwater

Clearwater is notable for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Clearwater, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

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


Is La Paz or Clearwater Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Clearwater

La Paz is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its diving and snorkeling.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Is La Paz or Clearwater Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Clearwater

Both La Paz and Clearwater are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

La Paz is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Clearwater offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Clearwater?

La Paz
Clearwater

La Paz is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

La Paz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.


Is La Paz or Clearwater Better for Families?

La Paz
Clearwater

Both La Paz and Clearwater are very good to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Clearwater. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Is La Paz or Clearwater Better for Couples?

La Paz
Clearwater

Clearwater is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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 Clearwater Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Clearwater

La Paz is notable for backpackers. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Clearwater is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, and you'll find more affordable prices than in some nearby beach destinations.


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

La Paz
Clearwater

La Paz is a good destination for its public transit. However, Clearwater is a mediocre coastal city for times when you don't have a car.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Is La Paz or Clearwater a more walkable city?

La Paz
Clearwater

La Paz is notable for its walkability. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable place. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Clearwater or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Clearwater?

In either La Paz or Clearwater, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than La Paz because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 3-5 days is enough time in Clearwater.

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

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


  • How many days in La Paz or Clearwater? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Clearwater 3-5

One day in La Paz or Clearwater?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural city of La Paz, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Clearwater. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in La Paz or Clearwater?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of La Paz, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Clearwater is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Clearwater?

La Paz, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Clearwater?

La Paz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Clearwater. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Clearwater or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, while the average daily cost in Clearwater is $309. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for La Paz and Clearwater in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Clearwater $141
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Clearwater $282
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Clearwater

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Clearwater? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in La Paz


Hotels in Clearwater


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: La Paz Hotel Prices and Clearwater Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Clearwater $221

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241
  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Clearwater

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Clearwater:

  • St. Petersburg to St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) - Departure Private Transfer: $63
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Arrival Private Transfer : $63
  • Private Transfer from St Petersburg Clearwater Airport to St Pete Beach: $75
  • Clearwater Beach to Tampa Airport (TPA) - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Clearwater Beach to St.Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) -Departure Private Transfer: $102
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to Clearwater Beach - Arrival Private Transfer: $102
  • Private Airport Transfer to St. Petersburg or Clearwater Beach : $104
  • Private Transfer from Clearwater to Tampa Airport: $120
  • St. Pete–Clearwater Airport (PIE) to St. Petersburg - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $127

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Clearwater?

Prices for flights to both Clearwater and La Paz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    La Paz $38
    Clearwater $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Clearwater -

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • Transparent Boat Tour with Mushroom Rock: $64
  • Pearls of Pearl Farm Experience: $64
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $82
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $85
  • Sunset Sandboarding at La Paz Dunes Tour: $89
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Supercombo 2-Day City Tour: $105
  • From Los Cabos: City Tour La Paz, Balandra and Todos Santos: $115
  • Half Day Private Tour of the Beaches of La Paz: $115
  • holy spirit island tour: $118
  • Los Cabos Tour from La Paz: $119
  • Snorkel Tour with Whale Shark in La Paz: $121

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Clearwater by Operation City Quest: $10
  • St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour: $14
  • Clearwater; Aspirations Winery Tour and Tasting Experience: $21
  • Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater Daytime Yacht Sightseeing Cruise with Optional Dining : $27
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphins and Donuts Morning Cruise: $28
  • Mega Bite Dolphin Tour Boat in Clearwater Beach: $28
  • 1-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure Cruise from Madeira Beach: $28
  • Shark Teeth and Shells, Dolphin and Shelling Tour Boat Clearwater Beach : $28
  • Clearwater Beach: Dolphin and Sandbar Boat Cruise: $28
  • Sunset and Harbor Lights Cruise: $28
  • Tour with Dolphins and Sight Seeing: $29

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Clearwater -

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $20


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

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 Clearwater Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Clearwater?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Clearwater, 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.


When is the best time to visit La Paz or Clearwater?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Clearwater in the Summer?

Both Clearwater and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Clearwater for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Clearwater. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Clearwater fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Clearwater during summer. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Clearwater receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Clearwater. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Clearwater receives 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Clearwater 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Clearwater in the Autumn?

Both Clearwater and La Paz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to La Paz for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Clearwater in the autumn for the shopping scene.

La Paz is a little warmer than Clearwater in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Clearwater fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the autumn, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Clearwater. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Clearwater receives 234 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Clearwater. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Clearwater receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Clearwater in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Clearwater. Many visitors come to La Paz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Clearwater for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, La Paz is a little warmer than Clearwater. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Clearwater averages at about 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Clearwater during winter. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Clearwater receives 200 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Clearwater. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Clearwater receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Clearwater in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Clearwater. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Clearwater because of the beaches.

In April, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Clearwater. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Clearwater fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the spring, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Clearwater. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Clearwater receives 299 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Clearwater. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Clearwater receives 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C)

Typical Weather for Clearwater and La Paz

La Paz Clearwater
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)