A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Big Sur for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mazatlan or Big Sur?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Big Sur? 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a scenic, remote, and breathtaking natural area. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Mazatlan and Big Sur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Big Sur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Big Sur are both popular with visitors, Mazatlan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and shopping, while Big Sur is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Big Sur is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Big Sur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mazatlan is great for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Mazatlan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Mazatlan is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Mazatlan has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Nightlife?

Mazatlan is very good for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Mazatlan and Big Sur are great choices.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Big Sur is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is great for its historic old town charm. However, Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Big Sur does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Hiking?

Big Sur is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Big Sur. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Big Sur?

Mazatlan is very good for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Big Sur.

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.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Couples?

Big Sur is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Big Sur makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Mazatlan is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Big Sur a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Big Sur is not a walkable city. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Big Sur or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Big Sur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Big Sur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Big Sur. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 1-3 days is enough time in Big Sur.

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

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

One day in Mazatlan or Big Sur?

In Mazatlan, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful natural area of Big Sur offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Big Sur?

In Mazatlan, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Big Sur is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this natural area 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 Big Sur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Big Sur?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mazatlan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Big Sur 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 Big Sur?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mazatlan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Big Sur is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This natural area 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Mazatlan or Big Sur?

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 Mazatlan or Big Sur in the Summer?

Both Big Sur and Mazatlan during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Big Sur. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Big Sur in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Big Sur. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Big Sur. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Big Sur fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

In October, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Big Sur. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Big Sur in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Big Sur. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Big Sur in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Big Sur fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Big Sur. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Big Sur in the Spring?

Both Big Sur and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Mazatlan is much warmer than Big Sur. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Big Sur averages at about 56°F (13°C).

In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Big Sur. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Big Sur receives 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Big Sur and Mazatlan