A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Palm Springs for Nightlife, Resorts, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit La Paz or Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a ritzy, chic, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

La Paz and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Palm Springs?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Palm Springs are popular destinations, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is very popular for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Palm Springs attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Palm Springs is more touristy than La Paz and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. La Paz is famous for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach.

How is La Paz different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

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

Foodies will find both La Paz and Palm Springs both to be superb 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.

Palm Springs has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is La Paz or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Palm Springs just to party. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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 Palm Springs Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Palm Springs is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Palm Springs Better for Beaches?

La Paz is an amazing city to visit for its beaches. However, Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Palm Springs is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Palm Springs?

Both La Paz and Palm Springs are superb shopping destinations.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Palm Springs. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Is La Paz or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Both La Paz and Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is La Paz or Palm Springs Better for Couples?

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

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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 Palm Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre 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.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

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

La Paz is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is La Paz or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

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

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

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either La Paz or Palm Springs. In our opinion, La Paz has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Paz than Palm Springs. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs than La Paz. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs?

In La Paz, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Palm Springs?

La Paz is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Palm Springs?

You'll find nightlife and food around the authentic destination of La Paz. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Palm Springs?

La Paz is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the ritzy destination of Palm Springs. This city 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 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

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

Which is Bigger, La Paz or Palm Springs?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Palm Springs, 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 Palm Springs?

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 Palm Springs in the Summer?

Both Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In July, La Paz usually receives more rain than Palm Springs. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit La Paz or Palm Springs in the Autumn?

Both Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

La Paz is a little warmer than Palm Springs in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Palm Springs fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

La Paz usually gets more rain in October than Palm Springs. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Palm Springs in the Winter?

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

In the winter, La Paz is a little warmer than Palm Springs. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Palm Springs averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Palm Springs. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 2 inches (52 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit La Paz or Palm Springs in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Palm Springs. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year.

In April, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Palm Springs. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Palm Springs fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Palm Springs. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Palm Springs receives 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Palm Springs and La Paz