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

Should you visit La Paz or Pensacola?

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 Pensacola 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See La Paz travel costs.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a active, entertaining, and fun-filled beach town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Pensacola travel costs.

La Paz and Pensacola: 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 museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Pensacola?

You'll generally find more things to do in La Paz than Pensacola. La Paz is bigger than Pensacola, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. La Paz is better known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Pensacola is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Pensacola is more touristy than La Paz and is known for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. La Paz is well known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. Also, La Paz is famous for Balandra Beach.

How is La Paz different from Pensacola?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Pensacola

La Paz is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pensacola. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.


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

La Paz
Pensacola

Foodies will find both La Paz and Pensacola 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.

Pensacola has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

Is La Paz or Pensacola Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Pensacola

Evening events are notable in both La Paz and Pensacola.

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 Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

Is La Paz or Pensacola Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Pensacola

Pensacola 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 Pensacola, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

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 Pensacola Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Pensacola

La Paz is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pensacola 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.

Pensacola is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Pensacola Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Pensacola

Both La Paz and Pensacola are considered to be amazing 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.

Pensacola offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

Is La Paz or Pensacola Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Pensacola

Pensacola is a moderate beach town for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Pensacola?

La Paz
Pensacola

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

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

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.

Is La Paz or Pensacola Better for Families?

La Paz
Pensacola

Both La Paz and Pensacola 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 Pensacola. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Is La Paz or Pensacola Better for Couples?

La Paz
Pensacola

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

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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 Pensacola Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Pensacola

La Paz is notable for backpackers. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Pensacola is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few budget-friendly places to stay, particularly away from the beach.

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

La Paz
Pensacola

La Paz is very good for its public transit. However, Pensacola 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 Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is La Paz or Pensacola a more walkable city?

La Paz
Pensacola

La Paz is notable for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its ease of walking around.

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

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable city. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.


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

Should I spend more time in Pensacola or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Pensacola?

Both La Paz and Pensacola have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pensacola than in La Paz. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 3-7 days is enough time in Pensacola.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Pensacola. 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 Pensacola than La Paz. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Pensacola 3-7

One day in La Paz or Pensacola?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of La Paz. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Pensacola. 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 Pensacola?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural destination of La Paz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Pensacola is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Pensacola?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful city of La Paz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pensacola. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Pensacola?

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun-filled destination of Pensacola. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Pensacola 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
    Pensacola Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Pensacola $234

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Pensacola is $234. 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 Pensacola in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Pensacola $115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Pensacola $230
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Pensacola

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Pensacola? 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 Pensacola


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 Pensacola Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Pensacola $64

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Pensacola?

Prices for flights to both Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $84

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

Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

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

  • Palafox Palete Food Tour: $50
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon or Dinner and Ghost Tour: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Pensacola $13

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 Pensacola

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


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

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

  • Pensacola's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided App Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Wacky Walks: $10
  • The Great Pensacola Birthday Party Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pensacola by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Pensacola Ghost Tours: Perdition, Pirates, & Purgatory: $24
  • Spooky Stories Walking Ghost Tour: $25
  • Penscola Most Haunted: Ghost Tour and Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Pensacola Haunted Walking Tour with Ghost Equipment: $30
  • Pensacola Amazing Race Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • Pensacola Most Haunted Ghost Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $30
  • North Hill Historic Homes Tour of Pensacola: $32
  • Pensacola Ghost Tours: Perdition, Pirates, & Purgatory: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Pensacola $44

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

Also in Pensacola, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Walking Ghost Tour Pub Crawl - Boos with Booze : $20
  • Walking Pub Tour : $21
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl of Downtown Pensacola : $45


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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Pensacola?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Pensacola. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Pensacola, 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 Pensacola?

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 Pensacola in the Summer?

Both Pensacola 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 Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

La Paz is around the same temperature as Pensacola in the summer. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 30°C (86°F) in July, and Pensacola fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

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


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

Should I visit La Paz or Pensacola in the Autumn?

Both Pensacola 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 Pensacola because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, La Paz is a little warmer than Pensacola. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Paz in October average around 27°C (80°F), and Pensacola averages at about 69°F (21°C).

Pensacola gets a good bit of rain this time of year. La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Pensacola. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Pensacola receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Pensacola is June to November.


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

Should I visit La Paz or Pensacola in the Winter?

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

In January, La Paz is generally much warmer than Pensacola. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 18°C (65°F), and Pensacola fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Pensacola in the Spring?

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

La Paz is a little warmer than Pensacola in the spring. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 23°C (73°F) in April, and Pensacola fluctuates around 67°F (20°C).

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Pensacola. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Pensacola receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C)

Typical Weather for Pensacola and La Paz

La Paz Pensacola
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 51°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) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 74°F (24°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) 78°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)