A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Marathon for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit La Paz or Marathon?

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 Marathon 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Marathon

Marathon is a relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

La Paz and Marathon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Marathon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Marathon are popular destinations, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is very popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Marathon attracts visitors for its resorts 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. Marathon is famous for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is La Paz different from Marathon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to La Paz can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is La Paz or Marathon Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both La Paz and Marathon.

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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is La Paz or Marathon Better for Resorts?

Marathon 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 Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

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 Marathon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to La Paz to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Is La Paz or Marathon Better for Beaches?

La Paz is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for the beache.

The beaches in La Paz are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Marathon?

La Paz is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is La Paz or Marathon Better for Families?

Both La Paz and Marathon are high quality 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 Marathon. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Is La Paz or Marathon Better for Couples?

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

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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 Marathon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

La Paz is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

La Paz is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon 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 Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is La Paz or Marathon a more walkable city?

La Paz is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Marathon or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Marathon?

Both La Paz and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in La Paz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marathon.

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

The city of La Paz offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Marathon. 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 Marathon?

La Paz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in La Paz, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Marathon is a great place to explore. 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 Marathon?

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

La Paz is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Marathon. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, La Paz or Marathon?

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

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 Marathon in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Marathon. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Marathon. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Marathon fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets less sunshine than Marathon. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 328 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Marathon. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Marathon in the Autumn?

Both Marathon and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to La Paz because of the shopping scene. Also, the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Marathon this time of year.

La Paz is around the same temperature as Marathon in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Marathon fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Marathon during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Marathon. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Paz or Marathon in the Winter?

Both Marathon and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Marathon for the cuisine.

In the winter, La Paz is cooler than Marathon. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Marathon averages at about 70°F (21°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets less sunshine than Marathon. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Marathon. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Marathon in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Marathon. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Marathon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, La Paz is generally cooler than Marathon. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Marathon fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Marathon. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Marathon and La Paz