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

Should you visit La Paz or Newport?

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 Newport 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.

Newport

Newport is a coastal, seaside, and historical town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Newport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Newport travel costs.

La Paz and Newport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in La Paz or Newport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Newport are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Newport is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. La Paz is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Newport is popular for its sailing regattas, its mansions along Bellevue Avenue, and its maritime history.

How is La Paz different from Newport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Newport

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both La Paz and Newport.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Newport. The historic mansions and local museums educate visitors on the town's maritime past and colonial roots. Some of the more popular places to visit include The Breakers, The Elms Mansion, The Marble House, and Chateau-sur-mer Mansion.


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

La Paz
Newport

Foodies will find both La Paz and Newport both to be superb 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.

Newport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Find a waterfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood and a charming atmosphere. Many restaurants are influenced by the town's Portuguese and Irish roots. You'll find classic pubs as well as brunch cafes and traditional taverns.

Is La Paz or Newport Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Newport

Evening events are good in both La Paz and Newport.

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 Newport. There's a lively atmosphere in the evening with many pubs, taverns, and bars that keep the energy high.

Is La Paz or Newport Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Newport

La Paz is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Newport is not a resort destination.

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

Newport is not a resort destination.


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

La Paz
Newport

La Paz is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Newport 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.

Newport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Newport Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Newport

La Paz is terrific for the beach. Also, Newport is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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 Newport. Tucked in along the rocky coastline are many beautiful sandy beaches. You'll find popular and active beaches where you can lounge in a chair and people watch, as well as more secluded spots where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. The largest beach is Easton's Beach (also known as First Beach). Surfers and boaters enjoy Sachuest Beach (or Second Beach), and a less popular, but very rewarding beach is also King Park Beach.

Is La Paz or Newport Better for its Old Town?

La Paz
Newport

Newport is notable for its old town. However, La Paz does not have a historic old town.

Newport is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The Historic District is filled with colonial buildings and impressive mansions. There are cobblestone streets and a charming loop through the town's Old Quarter.

La Paz does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Newport?

La Paz
Newport

Both La Paz and Newport are superb shopping destinations.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newport. Walk along the charming cobblestone streets and pop in the many local boutiques and shops.

Is La Paz or Newport More Beautiful?

La Paz
Newport

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

Newport is a beautiful place to visit, too. The coastal setting and charming architecture give it a lot of character.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Paz or Newport Better for Families?

La Paz
Newport

Both La Paz and Newport 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 Newport. For an educational and interactive experience, head to Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. The Norman Bird Sanctuary also has a lot of land and places to explore. Kids will enjoy a visit to the beach or running around Breton Point State Park as well. On a rainy day, Ryans Family Amusements is the perfect way to pass some time.


Is La Paz or Newport Better for Couples?

La Paz
Newport

Newport 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.

Newport is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's a coastal town with a lot of charm that makes for a perfect romantic escape. Enjoy dining and shopping along Thames Street or take a walk along the coast. There are many local restaurants and evening activities for couples as well.

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 Newport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Newport

La Paz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Newport is lacking in good options 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.

Newport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a beautiful town, but accommodation tends to be expensive and there aren't any hostels to attract the budget crowd.

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

La Paz
Newport

Both La Paz and Newport offer good public transit options.

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

Newport has some public transit options. There are buses operated by RIPTA. You can visit most of the attractions in the downtown area by catching a ride on one of the classic green and gold hybrid trolley buses.


Is La Paz or Newport a more walkable city?

La Paz
Newport

La Paz and Newport both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Newport is a very walkable destination. The town's downtown are compact and fun to explore on foot. There is a nice concentration of shops, restaurants, hotels and sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Newport or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Newport?

In either La Paz or Newport, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Newport than La Paz because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-5 days is enough time in Newport.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Newport. 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 Newport than La Paz. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newport 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 Newport 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 Newport? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Newport 2-5

One day in La Paz or Newport?

In La Paz, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newport. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Newport?

In La Paz, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Paz has to offer.

Newport 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 Newport?

La Paz is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newport. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Newport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting La Paz. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Newport. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Newport 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
    Newport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Newport $192

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Newport is $192. 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 Newport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Newport $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Newport $184
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Newport

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Newport? 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 Newport


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 Newport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Newport $36

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 Newport?

Prices for flights to both Newport 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
    Newport $78

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 Newport

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

  • Newport Neighborhood Food Tour: $99

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

For Newport, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Ocean Drive Historic District: A Newport Self-Guided Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Explore Newport Cliff Walk Self Guided Walking Tour: $9.99
  • Newport's Opulent Gilded Age Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self guided Tour of the Old Colony House: $10
  • Newport Cliff Walk - Legends of the Gilded Age GPS Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Newport Cliff Walk Self-Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Scenic Newport, RI Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15
  • Ultimate Newport Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: Walk & Drive: $18
  • Road to Independence Walking Tour: $20
  • Golden Age to Gilded Age Newport's Transformation Walking Tour: $20
  • Colonial Newport Walking Tour: $20
  • Walking Ghost Tour Through Newport RI: $23

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


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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Newport?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Newport. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Newport, 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 Newport?

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 Newport in the Summer?

Both Newport and La Paz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to La Paz in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Newport. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Newport averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Newport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newport. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 293 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Newport. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Newport receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Newport 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Newport in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Newport. Most visitors come to La Paz for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Newport because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Newport. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Newport fluctuates around 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newport this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Newport during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 211 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Newport 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Newport in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Newport. The winter months attract visitors to La Paz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Newport this time of year.

It's quite cold in Newport in the winter. La Paz is much warmer than Newport in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Newport fluctuates around 28°F (-2°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 Newport. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newport receives 170 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Newport. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Newport receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Newport 28°F (-2°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Newport in the Spring?

Both Newport and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Newport for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Newport. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Newport averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Newport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Newport during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Newport receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Newport. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Newport receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Newport 48°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Newport and La Paz

La Paz Newport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 28°F (-2°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 30°F (-1°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 48°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 58°F (15°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 73°F (23°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 64°F (18°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 44°F (7°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 33°F (0°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm)