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

Should you visit La Paz or Vernon?

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 Vernon 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See La Paz travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a relaxing, quiet, and peaceful town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

La Paz and Vernon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Vernon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz. Although La Paz and Vernon are both popular with visitors, La Paz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. La Paz is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Vernon is known for its hiking. La Paz is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Vernon is popular for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is La Paz different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to La Paz can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Vernon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.


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

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in La Paz is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Vernon. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is La Paz or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Vernon is not a good town for nightlife.

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

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.

Is La Paz or Vernon Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Vernon 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.

Vernon is not a resort destination.


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

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Vernon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to La Paz to enjoy 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.

Vernon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Vernon Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is terrific for the beach. However, Vernon is not a beach destination.

The beaches in La Paz are among the best in the world. 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.

Vernon is not a beach destination.

Is La Paz or Vernon Better for Hiking?

La Paz
Vernon

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

Vernon is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Vernon?

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Vernon. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.

Is La Paz or Vernon Better for Families?

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

La Paz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly city. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is La Paz or Vernon Better for Couples?

La Paz
Vernon

Both La Paz and Vernon are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

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

Vernon is a good city for couples to visit. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.


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

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

La Paz is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Vernon is not a good 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 mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is La Paz or Vernon a more walkable city?

La Paz
Vernon

La Paz is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. However, Vernon is not a good town for its walkability.

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

Vernon is generally not a very walkable city. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.


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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Vernon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in La Paz or Vernon?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in La Paz or Vernon?

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

Vernon 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 Vernon?

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

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

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Vernon. 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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.

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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 Vernon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Vernon -

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 Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43

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

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Vernon $13


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

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 Vernon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Vernon?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Vernon. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

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 Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Vernon. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit La Paz or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and La Paz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to La Paz because of the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

La Paz usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Vernon. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit La Paz or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Vernon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vernon. La Paz is much warmer than Vernon in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Vernon. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit La Paz or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Vernon. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Vernon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Vernon. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and La Paz

La Paz Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)