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

Should you visit La Paz or Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a scenic, quaint, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

La Paz and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Ketchikan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Ketchikan are popular destinations, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Ketchikan attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. La Paz is famous for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Ketchikan is famous for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture.

How is La Paz different from Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Ketchikan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

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

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

La Paz is very good for nightlife. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Ketchikan. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan Better for Resorts?

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

La Paz has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Ketchikan is not a resort destination.

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

La Paz is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

La Paz is renowned for its beaches. However, Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

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.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Around Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Ketchikan?

La Paz is notable for shopping. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Both La Paz and Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan Better for Couples?

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

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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 Ketchikan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

La Paz is very good for its public transit. However, Ketchikan is a mediocre town 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 Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

Is La Paz or Ketchikan a more walkable city?

La Paz and Ketchikan both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Ketchikan is a very walkable destination. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ketchikan or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Ketchikan?

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

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

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 shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ketchikan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in La Paz or Ketchikan?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the authentic 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.

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful 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 Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan?

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 local destination of Ketchikan. This town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, La Paz or Ketchikan?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Ketchikan. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Ketchikan, 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 Ketchikan?

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 Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, La Paz is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit La Paz or Ketchikan in the Autumn?

Both Ketchikan and La Paz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

La Paz is much warmer than Ketchikan in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Ketchikan. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Ketchikan in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Ketchikan in the winter. In the winter, La Paz is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Ketchikan averages at about 34°F (1°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit La Paz or Ketchikan in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Ketchikan. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, La Paz is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Ketchikan. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and La Paz