A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Atlantic City for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Resorts

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City 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.

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. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a party-oriented, colorful, and glitzy city. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Atlantic City travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City are both popular with visitors, Cabo San Lucas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cabo San Lucas is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to Land's End. Atlantic City is popular for its casinos, gambling culture, nightlife scene, and wild personality

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Atlantic City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Cabo San Lucas is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical sights in the area such as the Church of Saint Luke and San Jose del Cabo.

While most people don't head to Atlantic City specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people don't spend their time in museums, there is the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the African American Heritage Museum, and the Noyes Museum Galleries.

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

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cabo San Lucas makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Atlantic City has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are budget buffets around town as well as seafood restaurants and even some fine dining. Salt water taffy is a local specialty that you should pick up while you're in the area.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City has a better nightlife scene.

People head to Cabo San Lucas just to party. 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.

The nightlife in Atlantic City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This is a city that is all about its nightlife scene. Many visitors come here just to party, and you'll find clubs with DJs or bands playing from sunset to sunrise. There are glitzy lounges and dive bars with everything in between. As a gambling town, there are casinos and all-night activities that keep the energy going round the clock.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City have very good options.

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

There are plenty of resorts in Atlantic City to choose from. The beach and boardwalk are lined with casinos and resorts. There are many recognizable names such as Harrah's, Bally's, Caesars, Hard Rock, and the Tropicana.

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

Cabo San Lucas is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Cabo San Lucas. 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.

Atlantic City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its beaches. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Atlantic City is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a Boardwalk that runs along the beach and is lined with piers and hotels. The Downtown Beach is the most accessible, and where most tourists hang out. If you're willing to travel a little further, there are some nice beaches nearby such as Margate Beach and Brigantine Beach.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cabo San Lucas. 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.

Atlantic City does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cabo San Lucas. It's not hard to get out into nature and you'll find many great hiking trails that go through varied and beautiful landscapes.

Atlantic City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for shopping. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cabo San Lucas is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Atlantic City. You'll find many souvenir shops along the boardwalk. There's also a Tangier Outlet Mall in the area. Some of the hotels such as the Tropicana have their own shopping areas as well.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlantic City is not a destination known for its 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.

Atlantic City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for Families?

Cabo San Lucas is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Atlantic City is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Cabo San Lucas is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Atlantic City is not always the best place to visit. Most families avoid this area for more family-friendly beaches, but if you find yourself in the area, you can check out Ripley's Believe It or Not or go on a dolphin cruise. Also popular is Steel Pier, which has rides for all ages.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Cabo San Lucas is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Atlantic City makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's not exactly known for its romance, but there are casinos, hotels, and a beaches that are fun to visit. You'll also find several spas and sunset cruises in the area.

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

Cabo San Lucas is well known for backpackers. Also, Atlantic City is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cabo San Lucas. It's a popular tourist destination, and there are a number of hostels and activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Atlantic City. There is a hostel in the area. You'll also find a younger crowd and plenty of partying.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City.

You'll find some public transit in Cabo San Lucas, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

While Atlantic City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Jitney are shuttle buses that runs from one end of the city to the other. They pass by most of the hotels and casinos along Pacific Avenue.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Atlantic City is a very walkable city. Many of the hotels are walkable and located near the boardwalk.

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

Should I spend more time in Atlantic City or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than in Atlantic City. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 1-3 days is enough time in Atlantic City.

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

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

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

One day in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventurous destination of Cabo San Lucas. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Atlantic City, you'll find nightlife and food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cabo San Lucas. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Atlantic City is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the idyllic destination of Cabo San Lucas. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Atlantic City. It's also a relaxing resort destination. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of Cabo San Lucas. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Atlantic City. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City, we can see that Atlantic City is more expensive. And not only is Cabo San Lucas much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Atlantic City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Atlantic City 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 Cabo San Lucas Expensive? and Is Atlantic City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Atlantic City?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Atlantic City. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Atlantic City, 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.