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

Should you visit La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

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 Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a relaxing, adventurous, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

La Paz and Cocoa Beach: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to the Kennedy Space Center
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Cocoa Beach are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Cocoa Beach is popular for its wonderful surfing waves and its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center.

How is La Paz different from Cocoa Beach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

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

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 Cocoa Beach. The town's proximity to the Kennedy Space Center is a big appeal for space enthusiasts. It's easy to take advantage of the great beaches and then spend a day exploring the space center. Also in town is the Florida Surf Museum.


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

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

Foodies will find both La Paz and Cocoa Beach 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.

Cocoa Beach has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this beach town. Head to Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier for some great restaurants. In addition to seafood options, you'll find steakhouses, bistros, and pizza shops.

Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

Evening events are good in both La Paz and Cocoa Beach.

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 Cocoa Beach. You'll find a number of casual pubs, bars, and grills around town where you can grab a drink in a relaxed setting.

Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

If luxury resorts are your style, both La Paz and Cocoa Beach have good options.

With a selection of resorts, La Paz makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Cocoa Beach has a few great resort options. There are casual and family-friendly resorts in the area that make for a nice beach vacation.


Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

La Paz is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Cocoa Beach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

La Paz is very popular for the beach. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

La Paz offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Cocoa Beach is considered a top beach destination. There are long stretches of sand that are great for swimming, surfing, water sports, or just relaxing in the sun. The most popular area is around Cocoa Beach Pier. For family-friendly, head to James H. Nance Park which also has a playground. If you have a dog, Canova Beach Park is your best option.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

La Paz is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

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

Cocoa Beach is a great destination for shopping. You'll find lots of great local shops as well as malls and beach stores where you can pick up everything you need.


Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach Better for Families?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cocoa Beach is an extremely popular beach town to visit for families. It's right by the Kennedy Space Center, which is a great excursion for kids and adults alike. There's also the Brevard Zoo, amazing beaches, and great parks where the kids can run around.

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.

Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach Better for Couples?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

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

Cocoa Beach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches, fun outdoor activities, and great date night activities make this a wonderful couples destination.

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 Cocoa Beach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

La Paz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cocoa Beach is lacking in good options 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.

Cocoa Beach is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there aren't any hostels in the area, there are some affordable hotels away from the beach.


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

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

Both La Paz and Cocoa Beach offer good public transit options.

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

Cocoa Beach has some public transit options. You can hop on the Cocoa Beach Trolley to access many sights in the area. It's a service provided by the Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT).

Is La Paz or Cocoa Beach a more walkable city?

La Paz
Cocoa Beach

La Paz is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cocoa Beach is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cocoa Beach is somewhat walkable. For the most walkable areas stay near the town center. In general, you'll want to have a car to access most of what the area has to offer though.

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

Should I spend more time in Cocoa Beach or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

In either La Paz or Cocoa Beach, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cocoa Beach 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 2-5 days is enough time in Cocoa Beach.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Cocoa Beach 2-5

One day in La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of La Paz. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cocoa Beach. 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 Cocoa Beach?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of La Paz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach?

The cultural city of La Paz offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cocoa Beach. 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 Cocoa Beach?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting La Paz. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Cocoa Beach. This beach town 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cocoa Beach 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 Cocoa Beach is $145. 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 Cocoa Beach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Cocoa Beach $85
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Cocoa Beach $170
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Cocoa Beach

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Cocoa Beach? 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 Cocoa Beach


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 Cocoa Beach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Cocoa Beach $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cocoa Beach

Also for Cocoa Beach, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral Hotel transfers : $47
  • Private Transfer from Cocoa to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $277
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne to Orlando (MCO) Airport: $279
  • Private Transfer from Melbourne to Orlando-Sanford (SFB) Airport: $293

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

Prices for flights to both Cocoa Beach 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
    Cocoa Beach $43

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cocoa Beach

For Cocoa Beach, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Guided Walking Food Tour in Cocoa Beach: $79
  • 3-Hour Indian River Queen Cruise with Dinner: $79
  • Guided Walking Food Tour in Cocoa Beach: $79
  • Village Food Tours Lunch & History Tour: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Cocoa Beach $16

Tours and Activities in La Paz

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

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $133
  • Balandra & San Rafaelito: Sightseeing & Snorkelling: $135
  • Balandra Beach and City Tour: $128
  • Balandra Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $135
  • Can-Am X3 Turbo Adventure: Cabo Desert Trails & Beach Ride: $291
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Cruise Date Delight! Swim with Sea Lions! Apr-02: $186
  • Espíritu Santo Island snorkel and sightseeing tour on Small Group: $169
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $139

Tours and Activities in Cocoa Beach

For Cocoa Beach, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Palm Bay by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • 1 Hour Historic Riverboat Shared Cruise in Cocoa City: $25
  • Banana River Sunset Cruise w/ Dolphin Watching: $40
  • Sunset Cruise on the Beautiful Banana River: $40
  • Cocoa Beach Dolphin Tours on the Banana River: $40
  • Thousand Islands Banana River Boat Cruise: $40
  • Dolphin Tours along and near the beautiful Indian River Lagoon : $40
  • Manatee and Dolphin Kayak Tour: $45
  • Dolphin Tour with Local Expert: $45
  • 2 hour Dolphin Sightseeing Tour in Melbourne Florida : $45
  • Wildlife Refuge Dolphin, Manatee & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!: $48
  • Wildlife Refuge Manatee, Dolphin & Mangrove Kayak or Paddleboarding Tour!: $48

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Cocoa Beach $20

Sample the Local Flavors in Cocoa Beach

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cocoa Beach:

  • Waterfront Happy Hour Bar Crawl: $39


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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Cocoa Beach?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cocoa Beach. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Cocoa Beach, 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 Cocoa Beach?

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 Cocoa Beach in the Summer?

Both Cocoa Beach and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cocoa Beach for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, La Paz is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Cocoa Beach averages at about 81°F (27°C).

Cocoa Beach gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Cocoa Beach. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Cocoa Beach 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Cocoa Beach in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Cocoa Beach. Many travelers come to La Paz for the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cocoa Beach in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

Cocoa Beach receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Cocoa Beach. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November is the hurricane season in Cocoa Beach.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Cocoa Beach 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Cocoa Beach in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Cocoa Beach. Many visitors come to La Paz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Cocoa Beach for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

La Paz is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Cocoa Beach fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Cocoa Beach 63°F (17°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Cocoa Beach in the Spring?

Both Cocoa Beach and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cocoa Beach because of the beaches.

In the spring, La Paz is around the same temperature as Cocoa Beach. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Cocoa Beach averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Cocoa Beach. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cocoa Beach receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November in Cocoa Beach is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Cocoa Beach 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Cocoa Beach and La Paz

La Paz Cocoa Beach
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 63°F (17°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 67°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 73°F (23°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 77°F (25°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 80°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (181 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 81°F (27°C) 8.3 inches (211 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.7 inches (171 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 81°F (27°C) 7.2 inches (183 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 77°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 69°F (21°C) 1.6 inches (40 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 64°F (18°C) 1.9 inches (48 mm)