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

Should you visit La Paz or Kauai?

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 Kauai 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 authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See La Paz travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. You'll find world class beauty in Kauai as well. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Kauai travel costs.

La Paz and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Kauai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kauai. Although La Paz and Kauai are both popular with visitors, Kauai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kauai is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while La Paz is known for its museums and attractions and shopping. Kauai is more touristy than La Paz and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also home to Waimea Canyon. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere.

How is La Paz different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Kauai

La Paz is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around La Paz. 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.

Kauai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.


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

La Paz
Kauai

Foodies will find both La Paz and Kauai both to be very good 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.

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food in Kauai combines the island's diverse cultures into a unique mix of flavors. There's fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and, of course, spam. You'll find common dishes like poke bowls and coconut shrimp, as well as more local dishes such as poi and lomi lomi.

Is La Paz or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Kauai

Evening events are good in both La Paz and Kauai.

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 Kauai. The island has more of a relaxed vibe than a party vibe, but there are plenty of places to listen to live music. There are also local dive bars as well as wine bars and upscale lounges where you can enjoy a drink. Many often have a dance floor as well.

Is La Paz or Kauai Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Kauai

Kauai is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

Kauai is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find major resorts of all forms and sizes. Most of the major hotel chains have resorts on the island, including the Marriott, the Sheraton, and Hyatt.

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 Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Kauai

Both La Paz and Kauai offer very good scuba diving or snorkeling.

La Paz is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Kauai. There aren't as many snorkeling and diving options as there are on some of the other Hawaiian islands, but you'll still find plenty of places to enjoy the underwater world. Popular snorkeling spots around the island include Ke'e Beach, Haena Beach Park, and Anini Beach.

Is La Paz or Kauai Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Kauai

Both La Paz and Kauai are considered to be fantastic beach destinations.

La Paz is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Kauai offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is filled with scenic beaches and idyllic coastline. The water conditions can be highly variable, so you should check with a local before entering the water. But the island has about 50 miles of sandy coastline that will take your breath away. You'll also likely see Hawaiian monk seals or sea turtles on the beach.

Is La Paz or Kauai Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Kauai

Kauai is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Kauai is a beautiful island with world famous hikes through the stunning mountains. The hiking trails take you through lush rainforests and along scenic coastlines. The mountains climb high and the trails range from easy to challenging. Popular hikes include the Awawawapuhi Nualolo Trail, the Cliff Trail to Waipoo Falls, and the Kalalau Trail.IL

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Kauai?

La Paz
Kauai

La Paz is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Kauai is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is La Paz or Kauai More Beautiful?

La Paz
Kauai

Kauai is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Kauai as well. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Kauai Better for Families?

La Paz
Kauai

Both La Paz and Kauai are very good 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 Kauai. There are kid-friendly hikes, beautiful bike rides, and many family-friendly beaches. Do keep in mind that many beaches have strong currents and large waves, so they're not the most kid-friendly. Good options include Poipu Beach and Lydgate Beach Park.


Is La Paz or Kauai Better for Couples?

La Paz
Kauai

Kauai is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Kauai is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "The Garden Isle" is a world class honeymoon destination with stunning beaches and iconic hikes. There are romantic resorts and many adventure activities that couples can enjoy such as whale watching and scuba diving.

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 Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Kauai

La Paz is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kauai. There are a couple of hostels on the island, but you'll likely need a car to get around, which can make this an expensive destination.

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

La Paz
Kauai

La Paz is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Kauai is not known for its public transit.

While La Paz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.


Is La Paz or Kauai a more walkable city?

La Paz
Kauai

La Paz is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

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

Kauai is not a walkable city. While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Kauai or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Kauai?

La Paz and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than La Paz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Kauai 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 Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in La Paz or Kauai?

In La Paz, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Kauai. 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 Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kauai 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 Kauai?

La Paz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of La Paz. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. 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.

A week in La Paz or Kauai?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of La Paz. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dramatic destination of Kauai. This island 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Kauai 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
    Kauai Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Kauai $231

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $231. 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 Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Kauai? 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 Kauai


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 Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

Also for Kauai, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private SUV Transfer- Lihue Airport to Lihue/Kapaa : $149
  • Private SUV Transfer-LIH Airport to Koloa/Poipu : $179

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai 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
    Kauai $96

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 Kauai

For Kauai, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Walking Food Tour of Hanalei, Kauaʻi : $129
  • Local Dishes Cooking Class: $174
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $179
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $189
  • Luau Kalamaku – Elevated Seating, Dinner & Show: $198
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sailboat Tour with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • VIP Manor House Dinner & Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House 4-Course Dinner & Show: $251
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $264

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

Tours and Activities in La Paz

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

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • 3 Hours La Paz Whale Shark First Class Snorkeling Tour: $167
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $127
  • Birding La Paz Mexico 4hrs.Tour : $160
  • Birding Tour in La Paz Mexico: $177
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • Cultural and Culinary Tour of El Triunfo, Baja California Sur: $250
  • Desert Off Road Adventure Tour in La Paz: $261
  • Desert and Dunes ATV Adventure in La Paz BCS Mexico: $195
  • Espíritu Santo and Balandra Beach Combo Tour: Sea Lion Snorkeling: $250
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145

Tours and Activities in Kauai

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kauai.

  • Ultimate Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Kauai (Na Pali, Waimea), Hawaii: $15
  • North Shore Kauai Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Kauai: $20
  • Kauai Poipu and Koloa Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $20
  • Kauai Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Driving Tour app: $23
  • Allerton Garden Guided Group Walking Tour: $64
  • Kauai Cruise Ship Shore Excursion Journey to Waimea Canyon: $97
  • Kauai Cruise Ship Excursion: Wailua River & Fern Grotto: $109
  • Kalapaki Kai Sunset Catamaran Cruise: $109
  • Kauai Adventure: Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide: $112
  • Catamaran Sunset Cruise: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Kauai $14


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



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

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 Kauai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Kauai. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Kauai. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Kauai. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Kauai. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to La Paz for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, La Paz is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Kauai. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to La Paz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

La Paz is cooler than Kauai in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Kauai. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Kauai. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, La Paz is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Kauai averages at about 73°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Kauai. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and La Paz

La Paz Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)