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

Should you visit La Paz or Galveston?

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 Galveston 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 beautiful, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Galveston

Galveston is a charming, coastal, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

La Paz and Galveston: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in La Paz or Galveston?

You'll generally find more things to do in La Paz than Galveston. La Paz is bigger than Galveston, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. La Paz is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Galveston is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm. La Paz is well known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. Also, La Paz is famous for Balandra Beach. Galveston is well known for its long history that is centered around the shipping industry and hurricanes.

How is La Paz different from Galveston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Galveston

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both La Paz and Galveston.

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 Galveston. With its long history and Victorian homes, there are a number of museums around town. A favorite mansion is the 1892 Bishop's Palace. There's also the Galveston Railroad Museum and the Galveston Arts Center.


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

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

La Paz has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Galveston area. There's a great mix of seafood and Texas favorites. Seafood-lovers will enjoy the oysters, crab cakes, and po boys while land-lovers will like the brisket, Tex Mex, and Texas chili.

Is La Paz or Galveston Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Galveston

Galveston is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Galveston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's a bit of a party town vibe in the evenings. Head to Pleasure Pier for rides and entertainment. The town also has taverns, lounges, and bars that you can check out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Is La Paz or Galveston Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Galveston

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

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.

Galveston is not a resort destination.


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

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Galveston 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.

Galveston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Galveston Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is an amazing city to visit for the beache. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the beach.

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.

Galveston has a beach worth visiting. There are miles of beaches that spread out from town. Some of the best include Babe's Beach, Stewart Beach, and Crystal Beach. Because of the proximity to the Mississippi River, the water can be a bit murky, but the beaches are still fun.

Is La Paz or Galveston Better for its Old Town?

La Paz
Galveston

Galveston is a town with good options for its old town. However, La Paz does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Galveston to see the old town. The East End Historic District is filled with historic mansions with beautiful porches. It's possible to take a tour or you could explore independently.

La Paz does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Galveston?

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

La Paz is well-known for its shopping. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors go to Galveston to go shopping. There are plenty of places to pick up souvenirs like shell jewelry or t-shirts. There are also more eclectic shops as well as shopping centers and malls.

Is La Paz or Galveston Better for Families?

La Paz
Galveston

Both La Paz and Galveston are superb 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 Galveston. Head to Pier 21 where you'll find museums, harbor tours, and other kid-friendly activities. The city also offers a number of pirate-themed activities that kids enjoy as well as spooky ghost tours. For a bit of a thrill you can check out the rides at Galveston Pleasure Pier. And, of course, there are the beaches.

Is La Paz or Galveston Better for Couples?

La Paz
Galveston

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

Galveston is a very popular place to visit for couples. The Historic District is the perfect place to enjoy a nice meal and soak up the charm. The area's beaches and parks also offer a bit of romance and there are plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, or swimming.

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 Galveston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Galveston is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Galveston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The beaches are great, but most backpackers don't think to visit Galveston.

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

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Galveston 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 generally limited in Galveston. While there are buses and trolley buses, a car is the best way to get around with the greatest flexibility and convenience.

Is La Paz or Galveston a more walkable city?

La Paz
Galveston

La Paz is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Galveston is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Galveston is a somewhat walkable city. There are some walkable areas such as the Historic District.


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

Should I spend more time in Galveston or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Galveston?

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

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Galveston. 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 Galveston. 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 Galveston 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 Galveston? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Galveston 1-3

One day in La Paz or Galveston?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of La Paz. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Galveston. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in La Paz or Galveston?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural destination of La Paz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Galveston 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 Galveston?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the authentic city of La Paz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Galveston. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Galveston 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 Galveston is $183. 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 Galveston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Galveston $81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Galveston $162
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Galveston

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Galveston? 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 Galveston


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 Galveston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Galveston $35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Galveston

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

  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston Port to HOU Airport: $168
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $168
  • Galveston Port to William Hobby Airport Departure Transfer: $168
  • Galveston to Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) Private Transfer: $194
  • Privat Transfer from Galveston Port to Houston Airport (IAH): $194
  • Galveston Port to George Bush Airport Private Departure Transfer: $194

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Galveston?

Prices for flights to both Galveston 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
    Galveston $52

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 Galveston

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

  • Taste of the Strand Food Tour on Galveston Island: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Galveston $15

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 Galveston

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Galveston.

  • Self-Guided Ghost Tour on the Galveston Strand: $6.75
  • Luggage Storage in Cruise Terminal: $8.73
  • Unique Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Experience in League City: $10
  • Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Museum Ticket: $12
  • Al's Authentic Paranormal Excursion Tour: $16
  • Galveston Island Ghost Tour: $16
  • Tour Galveston's 1895 Moody Mansion: $18
  • Galveston Red Light District Tour: $20
  • Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.: $20
  • Galveston Haunted Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment: $20
  • Galveston's Flower Winery Tour at the Florvino Winery: $20
  • Great! Galveston Ghost Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Galveston $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Galveston

Also in Galveston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Galveston Island Brewing Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting : $10
  • Happy Hour Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston's Best Pub Crawl: $25
  • Galveston Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30


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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Galveston?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Galveston. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Galveston, 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 Galveston?

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 Galveston in the Summer?

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

La Paz is around the same temperature as Galveston in the summer. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Galveston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Galveston. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Galveston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Galveston in the Autumn?

Both Galveston 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 Galveston because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, La Paz is a little warmer than Galveston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Paz in October average around 27°C (80°F), and Galveston averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Galveston. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Galveston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Galveston in the Winter?

Both Galveston 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 museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Galveston this time of year.

In January, La Paz is generally much warmer than Galveston. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 18°C (65°F), and Galveston fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Galveston. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Galveston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Galveston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Galveston. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Galveston for the beaches and the small town charm.

La Paz is around the same temperature as Galveston in the spring. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 23°C (73°F) in April, and Galveston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Galveston. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Galveston receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Galveston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Galveston and La Paz

La Paz Galveston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 52°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 55°F (13°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 63°F (17°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 70°F (21°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 76°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 81°F (27°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 84°F (29°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 83°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 71°F (22°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 63°F (17°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)