A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cabo San Lucas vs. Boston for Attractions, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Boston?

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 Boston 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 wild, adventurous, and scenic city. You'll find world class beauty in Cabo San Lucas as well. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Boston is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Boston travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Boston: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boston. Although Cabo San Lucas and Boston are both popular with visitors, Boston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boston is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Cabo San Lucas is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Boston and is known for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Boston 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 Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is a great destination for theatre. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Cabo San Lucas is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Cabo San Lucas and Boston 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.

Boston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Cabo San Lucas is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Boston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a city with good options for live music. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is notable for its resorts. However, Boston 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.

Boston is not a resort destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Boston 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.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is notable for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city 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.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

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

Boston is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The historic old town of Boston is revered around the world. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

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.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Hiking?

Cabo San Lucas is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

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

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Boston?

Cabo San Lucas is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Cabo San Lucas as well. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Boston is a beautiful place to visit, too. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Families?

Boston 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.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

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

Cabo San Lucas is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boston Better for Students?

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

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

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

Boston 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 Boston can get you around easily. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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 Cabo San Lucas or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Cabo San Lucas is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Boston?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than Boston. 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 Boston 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 Boston?

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.

Because Boston is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Boston?

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.

Boston is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Cabo San Lucas or Boston?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Boston?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the city of Boston. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cabo San Lucas and Boston, we can see that Boston 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Boston, 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.