A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Blue Ridge for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Hiking

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

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 Blue Ridge 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 adventurous, scenic, and idyllic city. Cabo San Lucas is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge is a charming, outdoorsy, and historic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. Blue Ridge is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Blue Ridge travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge are both popular with visitors, Cabo San Lucas has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cabo San Lucas is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Blue Ridge is known for its small town charm. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Blue Ridge and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also home to Land's End. Blue Ridge is popular for its beautiful mountain setting, miles of hiking trails, and small town atmosphere.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Blue Ridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge?

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Blue Ridge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. While you don't immediately think of museums in the area, there are a couple. The Dahlonega Gold Museum gives information on the gold rush and mining industry in town. In nearby Tennessee, Ducktown Basin Museum is a historic mine site that is open for tours.

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

Foodies will find both Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge both to be very good destinations.

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.

Blue Ridge has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find plenty of small town restaurants serving local dishes like barbecue, trout, and biscuits with gravy. Southern food is popular, but you'll also find plenty of breweries and wineries in the area. Head downtown for an assortment of options that include southern, vegan, and even international flavors.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Cabo San Lucas has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Blue Ridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head downtown for a mix of breweries, bars, and clubs where you'll find live music and a casual meal.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Cabo San Lucas to choose from. 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.

Blue Ridge is not a resort destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

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.

Blue Ridge is not a beach destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Blue Ridge 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.

Blue Ridge does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for Hiking?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge are destinations which offer very good hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Blue Ridge for the hiking trails. There are miles of hiking trails in the area that take you to waterfalls and viewpoints. The starting point of the Appalachian Trail is also nearby, and another popular trail is the Benton MacKaye Trail. Options range from beginner to expert with everything in between.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Blue Ridge and Cabo San Lucas.

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.

Blue Ridge is well-known for its shopping. You'll find artisan shops, art galleries, and boutique clothing vendors. Many places are concentrated in the charming downtown area, which is fun to explore for a day or two.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Cabo San Lucas is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Blue Ridge is a beautiful place to visit, too. There are plenty of hikes to waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. There's also a scenic railroad as well as places to kayak or go horseback riding.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for Families?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge are very good to visit with kids.

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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Blue Ridge is very family-friendly. Kids who enjoy hiking and playing outdoors will have fun here. There are waterfall hikes, fruit picking farms, and plenty of playgrounds. There's also a scenic railway and lots of places to sample treats.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Blue Ridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you're looking for a cozy retreat where you can relax in a cabin, take long walks through nature, and enjoy local food, then this is your place. There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and rustic cabins with fireplaces and simple pleasures. If you want to escape it all then the mountains are the place to be.

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

Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge are very good places to visit 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.

Many backpackers visit Blue Ridge. There are a number of campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hikes that backpackers will enjoy. Nearby you'll also find the start of the famed Appalachian Trail.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Blue Ridge is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Cabo San Lucas has some public transit options. Buses make up the main form of public transit. They are called Subercabos and run between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Blue Ridge. There's no real public transportation system in the area.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Blue Ridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Blue Ridge is a somewhat walkable place. While the downtown area is relatively walkable, if you want to hike and get out in nature, you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Blue Ridge or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

In either Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Blue Ridge because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 2-5 days is enough time in Blue Ridge.

Families should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Blue Ridge. 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 Blue Ridge. 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 Blue Ridge 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 Blue Ridge?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic city of Cabo San Lucas, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Blue Ridge might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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.

A weekend in Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Cabo San Lucas, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Blue Ridge is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Blue Ridge?

Cabo San Lucas, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Blue Ridge. 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.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Blue Ridge is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge, we can see that Cabo San Lucas is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Blue Ridge Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Blue Ridge?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Blue Ridge. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Blue Ridge, 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.