A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Hood River for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit La Paz 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 La Paz 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.

La Paz

La Paz is a beautiful, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See La Paz travel costs.

Hood River

Hood River is a charming, agricultural, and quaint town. The beauty of Hood River is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Hood River travel costs.

La Paz and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Paz or Hood River?

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Paz than Hood River, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Paz is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Hood River is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty. La Paz is well known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. Also, La Paz is famous for Balandra Beach. Hood River is well known for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is La Paz different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Hood River is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, La Paz is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Hood River is a great destination to visit. 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.

La Paz is not a skiing destination.

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

La Paz is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Hood River is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

La Paz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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 La Paz or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both La Paz and Hood River both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. 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.

Hood River has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 La Paz or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both La Paz and Hood River.

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

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Resorts?

La Paz is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Hood River is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, La Paz makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz 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 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.

Hood River is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Beaches?

La Paz is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Hood River is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in La Paz. 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.

Hood River is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Hood River is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Hood River is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Hood River?

La Paz 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.

La Paz is well-known for its shopping. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

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 La Paz or Hood River More Beautiful?

Hood River is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Hood River is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There's a beautiful natural environment with wonderful hikes and local farms and wineries.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Families?

Both La Paz and Hood River are excellent 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 Hood River. 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 La Paz or Hood River Better for Couples?

Hood River is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Hood River is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Is La Paz or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both La Paz and Hood River are excellent destinations for backpackers.

La Paz is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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 La Paz or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz 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.

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

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 La Paz or Hood River a more walkable city?

La Paz 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.

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

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 La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Hood River. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Hood River. 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 Hood River. 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 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 La Paz.

One day in La Paz or Hood River?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the authentic city of La Paz, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Hood River. 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.

A weekend in La Paz or Hood River?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of La Paz, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Hood River is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Hood River?

La Paz, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hood River. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in La Paz or Hood River?

La Paz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Hood River. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, La Paz or Hood River?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hood River. When comparing the sizes of La Paz 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.

When is the best time to visit La Paz or Hood River?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Hood River in the Summer?

Both Hood River and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hood River in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

La Paz is a little warmer than Hood River in the summer. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Hood River fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Hood River, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the summer, La Paz often gets less sunshine than Hood River. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 338 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Hood River. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Hood River receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Hood River in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Hood River. Many visitors come to La Paz in the autumn for the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hood River for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, La Paz is much warmer than Hood River. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Paz in October average around 27°C (80°F), and Hood River averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Hood River. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Paz or Hood River in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Hood River. Most visitors come to La Paz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Hood River because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hood River can be very cold. In January, La Paz is generally much warmer than Hood River. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 18°C (65°F), and Hood River fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Hood River. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hood River receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Hood River. La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Hood River. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hood River receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Paz or Hood River in the Spring?

Both Hood River and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to La Paz because of the beaches. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Hood River this time of year.

La Paz is much warmer than Hood River in the spring. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 23°C (73°F) in April, and Hood River fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Hood River. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Hood River during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Hood River receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Hood River. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Hood River receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hood River and La Paz