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

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Boulder?

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 Boulder 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 idyllic, wild, and adventurous city. Many visitors also come to Cabo San Lucas because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Boulder

Boulder is a biker-friendly, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. Boulder is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Boulder travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Boulder: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Boulder are popular destinations, Cabo San Lucas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cabo San Lucas is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Boulder attracts visitors for its skiing and music. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Boulder and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for Land's End. Boulder is famous for its outdoor sports, biker-friendly downtown, vibrant downtown, and many local breweries.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Boulder?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Skiing?

Boulder is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Boulder to take advantage of their winter sports. The town offers access within an hour or two to several great ski resorts including Eldora Mountain, Vail, and Breckenridge.

Cabo San Lucas is not a skiing destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Boulder is not known for its sights and museums.

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.

Boulder offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit Boulder for the outdoor activities more than the museums and sights. If have the time you can wander around the University of Colorado Boulder campus, visit the Museum of Boulder, or see the Leanin' Tree Museum of Western Art.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Cabo San Lucas has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Boulder area. This is an often overlooked foodie town, with great farmer's markets and restaurants to try. There are many casual places to eat as well as vegetarian and vegan friendly options everywhere.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Boulder. The town has breweries, craft beer, and plenty to do in the evening. Live music is popular and many venues are smaller with a more personal atmosphere. Check out The Bitter Bar or License No. 1 for a local vibe.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Music?

Boulder 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 Boulder. During the summer months there are often outdoor concerts. Head to Pearl Street for open air stages or see a concert at Boulder Theater.

Cabo San Lucas is not a live music destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Resorts?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Boulder 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.

Boulder is not a resort destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Boulder 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.

Boulder is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for the beach. However, Boulder 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.

Boulder is not a beach destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its old town. However, Boulder 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.

Boulder does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Hiking?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Boulder 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 Boulder for the hiking trails. There are many accessible hikes in the area that take you through the mountains, by wildflowers, or up mountain peaks. Popular hikes that are nearby include the Bear Peak Summit Hike, the trails in Eldorado Canyon State Park, and Boulder Falls.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Boulder?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Boulder to go shopping. The downtown area has many local retailers where you can shop for clothing, art, or home goods. You can also pick up outdoor gear, camping equipment, and any other items you may need in town. Make sure you wander down the pedestrian-friendly Pearl Street Mall.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Cabo San Lucas because of it's amazing beauty. Beautiful beaches, stunning natural beauty, and striking landscapes make this a world class tropical destination.

Boulder offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Many people move here specifically for the surrounding natural beauty.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Families?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Boulder is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has parks, playgrounds, a planetarium, and climbing gyms that are fun for kids of all ages. There are plenty places to get outdoors with hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Eldorado Canyon State Park is a great place to explore as well.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Boulder is a good city for couples to visit. This is a great city for couples who love outdoor adventures, hiking, rock climbing, and cycling. You can wander down Pearl Street or go for a bike ride. There are also great restaurants where you can enjoy a meal and then head to Panorama Point to take in the view.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boulder. There are a number of backcountry areas in the region that are perfect for backpackers. The city also has a young population and several affordable places to stay.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder Better for Students?

Boulder is a great destination for students. However, Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Boulder. With the University of Colorado, Boulder in town, this city is a popular spot for students. It's an outdoor enthusiast's perfect base with many outdoor recreational activities in the area.

Cabo San Lucas is not popular with students.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder 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, Boulder is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Boulder. There are buses that run around town, but you really need a car to fully experience everything that the city has to offer.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Boulder a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Boulder is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Boulder is a somewhat walkable city. The city has some nice walkable areas and it is very bike-friendly.

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

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

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Boulder?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cabo San Lucas and Boulder. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cabo San Lucas than in Boulder. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Cabo San Lucas, and 2-3 days is enough time in Boulder.

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

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Boulder, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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 Boulder?

In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Boulder 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 Boulder?

Cabo San Lucas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cabo San Lucas has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boulder. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Cabo San Lucas or Boulder?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cabo San Lucas. In Cabo San Lucas, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the city of Boulder. 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 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 Boulder, we can see that Boulder 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 Boulder would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boulder 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 Boulder Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Boulder?

Boulder has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cabo San Lucas. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Boulder, 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.