A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sydney vs. Cabo San Lucas for Attractions, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sydney or Cabo San Lucas, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Sydney

Sydney is a diverse, energetic, and outdoorsy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Sydney travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a scenic, idyllic, and wild city. The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Sydney and Cabo San Lucas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sydney than Cabo San Lucas, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sydney is better known for its museums and attractions, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Cabo San Lucas is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Sydney and is known for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Sydney is well known for its iconic buildings, world-renowned beaches, colorful nightlife, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Also, Sydney is famous for the Sydney Opera House.

How is Sydney different from Cabo San Lucas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Sydney that are not to be missed. The city is filled with iconic and world famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There's also the famous Royal Botanic Garden and the Sydney Tower Eye.

Cabo San Lucas offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

Is the Food Better in Sydney or Cabo San Lucas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Sydney and Cabo San Lucas can be an enjoyable experience.

Dining out in Sydney is an experience not to be missed. There are international restaurants offering impressive dishes from around the world. You'll also find some local Australian favorites around town. Seafood is abundant, as are a number of Asian cuisines. Barramundi is a local fish that you'll find on many menus. Oysters, prawns, and John Dory (a local fish) are also popular.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cabo San Lucas. If you step away from the all-you-can-eat buffets in the resorts, and the tourist hot spots, you'll find some excellent local Mexican cuisine and nice fine dining restaurants. Fresh seafood and local produce make the dishes unique.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Sydney and Cabo San Lucas.

The nightlife in Sydney is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city is filled with nightclubs and DJ hosted dance parties. There's a huge young crowd that brings together residents, students, and backpackers in a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the best areas for nightlife are Kings Cross, Oxford Street, Surry Hills or Darling Harbour.

Cabo San Lucas is a world class party destination. It has a long reputation of being one of Mexico's best party destinations. There are wild, all-night dance parties, crazy and crowded clubs, and music that lasts well into the morning. The best nightlife can be found in the blocks around Plaza Bonita, near the marina boardwalk.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its resorts. However, Sydney is not a resort destination.

Cabo San Lucas is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Many of the resorts are along parts of the coastline where it's not safe to swim. If you really want to enjoy swimming at a beachfront property, make sure you do some research in advance. Medano Beach is a nice area to consider.

Sydney is not a resort destination.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many snorkeling and scuba diving excursions that go out on half day and full day trips. Some of the best snorkeling is found at Cabo Pulmo, which has the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cortez.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Sydney. There's some good snorkeling and diving nearby with a diversity of marine life and interesting ecosystems. Some of the best snorkeling spots are at Palm Beach, Shelly Beach, and Clifton Gardens.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Beaches?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Sydney is considered to be a world-class beach destination. There are more than 100 beaches near the city with everything from hidden coves to world famous destinations. Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in town and it has all of the tourist sights and activities that you could need. Surfers often head to Bronte Beach, which isn't too far away. Divers and snorkelers love Gordons Bay. Manly is also a nearby suburb with family-friendly beaches that can be reached by ferry.

Many people visit Cabo San Lucas for it's beautiful beaches. Because of the water conditions, it's not safe to swim at many of the beaches in the area. This is particularly true on the Pacific side of the city. Many people consider Medano Beach to be one of the best in the area, but also nice are Lover's Beach, the ironically named Divorce Beach, and Chileno Beach.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Sydney does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas to see the historical old town. San Jose del Cabo is an "old town" that's a bit outside of town. It's particularly nice to visit on Thursdays when there's a nice market.

Sydney does not have a historic old town.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Hiking?

Sydney and Cabo San Lucas are both places where visitors can find high quality hiking trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sydney. The city offers a number of coastal and inland trails that are easily accessible from town. There are short paths as well as multi-day routes not far and pass by stunning landscapes and viewpoints.

Many visitors go to Cabo San Lucas for the hiking trails. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Sydney is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Sydney is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a wonderful mix of shopping streets, modern malls, and boutique vendors who sell local fashions. For souvenirs or local art, go to The Rocks, which is not far from Sydney Opera House. The Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade are also popular shopping areas.

Cabo San Lucas is well-known for its shopping. There are many great shopping areas where you can pick up souvenirs or other interesting items to remember your trip. There are mall, markets, and boutique vendors that sell a variety of products.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Sydney is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Cabo San Lucas is one of the main draws. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Sydney is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waterfront setting and grand buildings make this a truly beautiful city. It also has a lot of natural beauty with impressive beaches and nice green spaces.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Families?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sydney is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city has great beaches where kids can learn to surf, zoos and aquariums with local wildlife, and outdoor activities that take advantage of the city's waterfront location. There's everything from whale watching to visiting the Olympic Park, all of which will fascinate kids of all ages.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cabo San Lucas is very family-friendly. Kids will love the snorkeling, boat rides, and kid-friendly cuisine. There are many places where kids can get up close and personal with animals, such as Wild Canyon’s Kingdom or camel riding. You might even be able to see migrating whales during your visit. Surfing, fishing, and hiking are also popular in the area.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Couples?

Sydney and Cabo San Lucas are both first-rate to visit as a couple.

Sydney has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's a romantic city that's filled with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. There are also award winning restaurants and world class beaches. Wander around the botanical gardens or take a sailing cruise on the harbor. There is an endless supply of romantic activities to choose from.

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It has long been a favorite honeymoon destination and couples who enjoy a beach paradise with wildlife, diving, and outdoor adventures will appreciate Cabo San Lucas. There's also amazing Mexican food and world class resorts.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sydney is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Sydney is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's popular for its adventure sports, active beaches, and vibrant nightlife. While it's not a particularly cheap city to visit, there are plenty of hostels around town and no shortage of backpackers to hang out with.

Many backpackers visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Students?

Sydney is a world-class destination for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Sydney is a very popular city for students. Students love the energy and plethora of outdoor activities in this beautiful city. Many international students come not only for the excellent universities but also for the diverse environment and many things to do.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sydney is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Cabo San Lucas 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 Sydney can get you around easily. There are a variety of types of public transit in town including buses, trains, ferries and light rail.

While Cabo San Lucas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Is Sydney or Cabo San Lucas a more walkable city?

Sydney and Cabo San Lucas both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Sydney is a very walkable destination. The city center and nearby suburbs are relatively easy to walk around. On the western side of the city, the suburbs are much less walkable.

Cabo San Lucas is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk around with many things close together.

For even more information, also check out Is Sydney Worth Visiting? and Is Cabo San Lucas Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cabo San Lucas or Sydney?

How long in Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Both Sydney and Cabo San Lucas have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Sydney has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Sydney than Cabo San Lucas. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sydney than Cabo San Lucas. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sydney that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sydney than Cabo San Lucas 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 Sydney.

One day in Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Because Sydney is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cabo San Lucas. 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 Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Sydney is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Cabo San Lucas is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sydney. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cabo San Lucas. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Because Sydney is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the idyllic destination of Cabo San Lucas. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sydney and Cabo San Lucas, we can see that Sydney is more expensive. And not only is Cabo San Lucas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Sydney is in Pacific and Cabo San Lucas is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Cabo San Lucas would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cabo San Lucas 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 Sydney would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sydney than you might in Cabo San Lucas.

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

Which is Bigger, Sydney or Cabo San Lucas?

Sydney has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Sydney and Cabo San Lucas, 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.