A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Berkeley for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Mazatlan or Berkeley? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a progressive, diverse, and quirky city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mazatlan and Berkeley: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan than Berkeley, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mazatlan is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Berkeley is known for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Mazatlan and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Berkeley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Berkeley and Mazatlan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Berkeley.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Many visitors head to Berkeley specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Berkeley? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Berkeley both to be very good destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Berkeley has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Berkeley is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is notable for the beach. However, Berkeley is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mazatlan. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mazatlan to see the historical old town. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Berkeley does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Berkeley is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Berkeley is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Berkeley.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Mazatlan. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Berkeley offers lots of family activities. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Berkeley make for a good place to visit.

Mazatlan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Berkeley is a good city for couples to visit. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan and Berkeley are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a great city to visit for backpackers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Students?

Berkeley is well known for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Berkeley is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Berkeley can get you around easily. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Is Mazatlan or Berkeley a more walkable city?

Berkeley is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Berkeley on foot is easy. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Mazatlan is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Berkeley Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Berkeley or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Berkeley. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Berkeley. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Berkeley.

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

Couples should spend more time in Berkeley than Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Berkeley that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Mazatlan 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 Berkeley.

One day in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

The city of Mazatlan offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The city of Berkeley offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Mazatlan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Berkeley 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berkeley, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Mazatlan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mazatlan, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Berkeley is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

A week in Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Berkeley is a great place to explore. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Berkeley, we can see that Berkeley is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mazatlan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mazatlan 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 Berkeley would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Berkeley than you might in Mazatlan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mazatlan Expensive? and Is Berkeley Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Berkeley?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Berkeley. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Berkeley, 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 Mazatlan or Berkeley?

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 Mazatlan or Berkeley in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Berkeley. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Berkeley in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Mazatlan is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Berkeley averages at about 63°F (17°C).

Mazatlan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Berkeley. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Berkeley receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Berkeley in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Berkeley. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Berkeley. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Berkeley fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Mazatlan usually gets more rain in October than Berkeley. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Berkeley in the Winter?

Both Berkeley and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Berkeley in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Berkeley fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Berkeley. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Berkeley receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Berkeley in the Spring?

Both Berkeley and Mazatlan during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year.

In the spring, Mazatlan is much warmer than Berkeley. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Berkeley averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Berkeley. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Berkeley receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Berkeley and Mazatlan