A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Destin for Beaches, Food, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit La Paz or Destin?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Destin 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a cultural, beautiful, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See La Paz travel costs.

Destin

Destin is a peaceful, family-friendly, and beautiful beach town. Destin is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food. See Destin travel costs.

La Paz and Destin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Destin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Destin are popular destinations, La Paz has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Paz is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Destin attracts visitors for its resorts and impressive beauty. La Paz is famous for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Destin is famous for its powdery sand and turquoise water, its kid-friendly environment, and its local waterfront seafood restaurants.

How is La Paz different from Destin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Destin and La Paz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Destin?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is notable for its sights and museums. However, Destin does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to La Paz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Destin does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Destin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, La Paz makes for a great culinary experience. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Destin has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The area has great seafood including crab chowder, seafood gumbo, and fried fish. You can find wonderful local restaurants that have waterfront views and menus that feature freshly caught seafood. Many restaurants also have kid-friendly menus. During peak season, reservations are recommended.

Is La Paz or Destin Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is very good for nightlife. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Destin doesn't offer many options. The region is more popular as a family-friendly beach destination than it is for it's nightlife. Head to the Harbor area for the most lively nightlife.

Is La Paz or Destin Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Destin

Destin is notable for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Destin, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular options include the Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, as well as Hilton Sandestin Beach, Golf Resort & Spa. Most of the accommodation in the area is in the form of condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms. Most of these complexes also have pools, hot tubs, and even kids clubs.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.


Is La Paz or Destin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is notable for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Destin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Destin Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is terrific for its beaches. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, La Paz is a very popular vacation destination. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Destin. This area is famous for its powdery white sand, beautiful blue waters, and calm waves. The beaches are large enough that they never get incredibly crowded, but you will find the largest crowds during the summer months. These beaches are particularly popular with families and seniors.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Destin?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is notable for shopping. Also, Destin is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

La Paz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Destin. In the shopping centers around town you'll find a number of unique boutique shops that are fun to explore. They have boutique-style beach clothes, local art, and any beach supplies that you may have forgotten.


Is La Paz or Destin More Beautiful?

La Paz
Destin

Destin is a beach town with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Destin is a beautiful place to visit, too. With its powdery sand and the blue water of the Gulf of Mexico, this is a beautiful beach destination.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Destin Better for Families?

La Paz
Destin

Both La Paz and Destin are superb to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Destin. The area has beautiful sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of activities for kids like Big Kahuna's Water Park. This is one of the more kid-friendly areas in Florida and many families return year after year with their kids. There are also many condos available for rent and kids can have their own room, kitchens are available for meal preparation, and there are washers and dryers to clean clothes. Many of these condo complexes also have kid-friendly pools

Is La Paz or Destin Better for Couples?

La Paz
Destin

Both La Paz and Destin are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

La Paz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Destin is a good city for couples to visit. For a relaxing beach vacation, this is a nice option for couples. A lot of the accommodation is in the form of condos, so it may not have the romantic resort vibe you're going for though. There are many great seafood restaurants and quiet beaches that have beautiful sunsets.


Is La Paz or Destin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is notable for backpackers. However, Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Destin is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is La Paz or Destin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is very good for its public transit. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

La Paz has a few public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Destin. There is almost no public transit so a car is essential. Some condo complexes do over golf carts to get around the grounds.

Is La Paz or Destin a more walkable city?

La Paz
Destin

La Paz is notable for its walkability. However, Destin is a mediocre beach town for its high level of walkability.

La Paz is very walkable. The city is very walkable.

Destin is not a very walkable city. The area is very spread out and not walkable so you'll need a car to access restaurants and most forms of entertainment.


For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Destin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Destin or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Destin?

Both La Paz and Destin have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Destin than in La Paz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 5-7 days is enough time in Destin.

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

Couples should spend more time in La Paz than Destin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Paz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Destin 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Destin? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Destin 5-7

One day in La Paz or Destin?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of La Paz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and food when visiting the destination of Destin. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Destin?

La Paz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Destin is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Destin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Destin. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in La Paz or Destin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of La Paz. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Destin. This beach town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Destin or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • La Paz Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Destin Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Destin $229

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Destin is $229. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for La Paz and Destin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Destin $111
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Destin $222
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Destin

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Destin? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in La Paz


Hotels in Destin


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: La Paz Hotel Prices and Destin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Destin $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Destin?

Prices for flights to both Destin and La Paz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    La Paz $60
    Destin $89

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Destin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Destin.

  • Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise with Sunset Views: $125
  • 3 Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise by Solaris Yacht in Miramar Beach: $128
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Destin $17

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • Mural and Sculpture Art Tour at the Peace Center: $40
  • Coral Farm Snorkel Tour: $55
  • Pearl Farm Experience and shop: $65
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $83
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • RZR Tour of Mogote Dunes and Sandboarding: $103
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $105
  • holy spirit island tour: $108
  • La Paz Beaches Half Day Tour: $111
  • Holy Spirit Island Tour Sea Lions Snorkeling and Beach: $111
  • Most Popular Tour in La Paz Isla Espíritu Santo and Sea Lions: $122
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $122

Typical Entertainment Prices in Destin

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Destin are as follows:


  • 1 Day Rental Umbrella and Chairs
    $40

Tours and Activities in Destin

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Destin are as follows:

  • Party Cruise aboard the Soundside Cruiser: $19
  • Santa Cruise on the Sound: $25
  • Milton Splash and Dash Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Destin Dolphin Cruise: $30
  • Kayak Adventure in Destin and Fort Walton Beach : $33
  • Destin Harbor Sunset Eco Dolphin Cruise: $35
  • Sandestin Sunset Eco-Dolphin Cruise Aboard Sol y Luna: $35
  • Hydro Rocket Dolphin Sightseeing Boat Tour from Destin: $35
  • Dolphin Cruise in Destin FL : $37
  • Spectacular Sunset Cruise: $38
  • The Maximum Magic Show Ticket: $39
  • Destin Family Friendly Dolphin Watching Adventure: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Destin $49


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Paz and Destin, we can see that Destin is more expensive. And not only is La Paz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Paz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Paz 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 Destin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Destin than you might in La Paz.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Paz Expensive? and Is Destin Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Destin?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Destin. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Destin, 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.


When is the best time to visit La Paz or Destin?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Destin in the Summer?

Both Destin and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Destin for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Destin. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Destin fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Destin. In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Destin. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Destin receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Destin 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Destin in the Autumn?

Both Destin and La Paz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Destin because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

La Paz is a little warmer than Destin in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Destin fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

Destin gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Destin. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Destin receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Destin 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Destin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Destin. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Destin this time of year.

In the winter, La Paz is much warmer than Destin. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Destin averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Destin receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Destin. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Destin receives 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Destin 50°F (10°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Destin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Destin. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Destin for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Destin. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Destin fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Destin. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Destin receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Destin 68°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Destin and La Paz

La Paz Destin
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 50°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 74°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 79°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)