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

Should you visit Cabo San Lucas or Hood River?

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 Hood River 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. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Cabo San Lucas travel costs.

Hood River

Hood River is a quaint, scenic, and charming town. Hood River is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Hood River travel costs.

Cabo San Lucas and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cabo San Lucas or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cabo San Lucas. Although Cabo San Lucas and Hood River are popular destinations, Cabo San Lucas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cabo San Lucas is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing. Cabo San Lucas is more touristy than Hood River and is popular for its beautiful coastline, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for Land's End. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is Cabo San Lucas different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a town with good options for winter skiing. However, Cabo San Lucas is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Cabo San Lucas is not a skiing destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

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

Foodies will find both Cabo San Lucas and Hood River both to be excellent 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.

Hood River has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Hood River has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Resorts?

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

Cabo San Lucas is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Beaches?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for the beach. However, Hood River is not a beach destination.

Cabo San Lucas is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for its Old Town?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Hood River does not have a historic old town.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Hood River are destinations which offer excellent 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 Hood River for the hiking trails. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Is the Shopping Better in Cabo San Lucas or Hood River?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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 Hood River to go shopping. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River More Beautiful?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hood River 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.

With stunning beauty, Hood River attracts visitors from all around. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Families?

Both Cabo San Lucas and Hood River are excellent 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, Hood River is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River Better for Couples?

Cabo San Lucas is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Cabo San Lucas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 Hood River frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

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

Cabo San Lucas and Hood River are excellent 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 Hood River. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.

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

Cabo San Lucas is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Hood River 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 generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Cabo San Lucas or Hood River a more walkable city?

Cabo San Lucas is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Hood River is lacking in good options 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.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

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

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Cabo San Lucas?

How long in Cabo San Lucas or Hood River?

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

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

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.

In Hood River, you'll find shopping and skiing. 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 Hood River?

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.

Hood River 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 Hood River?

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 Hood River. 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 Hood River?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the town of Hood River. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Cabo San Lucas and Hood River, we can see that Hood River 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 Hood River Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cabo San Lucas or Hood River?

Cabo San Lucas has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of Cabo San Lucas and Hood River, 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.