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

Should you visit La Paz or Wilmington?

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 Wilmington 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 cultural, beautiful, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See La Paz travel costs.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a historic, welcoming, and charming city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Wilmington travel costs.

La Paz and Wilmington: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in La Paz or Wilmington?

Tourists will generally find more to do in La Paz than Wilmington. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. La Paz is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Wilmington attracts visitors for its historical sights. La Paz is more touristy than Wilmington and is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also well known for Balandra Beach. Wilmington is famous for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting.

How is La Paz different from Wilmington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

La Paz
Wilmington

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

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.

Wilmington offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.


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

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Wilmington

Evening events are nice in both La Paz and Wilmington.

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 Wilmington. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


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

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

The beaches at Wilmington attract visitors from all over. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for its Old Town?

La Paz
Wilmington

Wilmington is a city with good options for its old town. However, La Paz does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Wilmington to see the old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

La Paz does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Wilmington?

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for Families?

La Paz
Wilmington

Both La Paz and Wilmington are high quality 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 Wilmington. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for Couples?

La Paz
Wilmington

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

Wilmington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Wilmington is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Wilmington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, the university and great beaches make this a surprisingly fun destination.

Is La Paz or Wilmington Better for Students?

La Paz
Wilmington

Wilmington is a city with good options for students. However, La Paz is not popular with students.

Wilmington is a good city to visit for students. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

La Paz is not popular with students.

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

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Wilmington is not a good destination 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 Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.


Is La Paz or Wilmington a more walkable city?

La Paz
Wilmington

La Paz is great for its walkability. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Wilmington is a somewhat walkable place. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Wilmington or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Wilmington?

In either La Paz or Wilmington, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Wilmington 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 Wilmington.

Families should spend more time in La Paz than Wilmington. 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 Wilmington. 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Wilmington 2-5

One day in La Paz or Wilmington?

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

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

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

Wilmington 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 Wilmington?

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

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

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Wilmington. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Wilmington 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
    Wilmington Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Wilmington $245

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Wilmington is $245. 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 Wilmington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Wilmington $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Wilmington $240
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Wilmington

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Wilmington? 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 Wilmington


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 Wilmington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Wilmington $47

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

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Wilmington?

Prices for flights to both Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $97

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
    Wilmington $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 Wilmington

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

  • True Crime Tour of Wilmington: $20
  • Downtown Wilmington Historian-Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Wilmington Coup and Massacre Historic Tour: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Wilmington by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $24
  • History and Architecture Walking Tour : $25
  • Wraiths & Wicked Whispers: Wilmington Ghost Tour: $26
  • Holiday Lights Cruise: $30
  • Wilmington Speakeasy and History Tour: $30
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Sunset Cruise with Live Music: $45
  • Wrightsville Beach Sunset Dolphin Tour: $49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Wilmington $39


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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Wilmington?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Wilmington. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Wilmington, 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 Wilmington?

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 Wilmington in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Wilmington. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 30°C (86°F), and Wilmington fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wilmington. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 283 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Wilmington. La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Wilmington. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Wilmington receives 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Wilmington in the Autumn?

Both Wilmington and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to La Paz because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Wilmington this time of year.

La Paz is a little warmer than Wilmington in the autumn. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 27°C (80°F) in October, and Wilmington fluctuates around 65°F (18°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Wilmington during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 227 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Wilmington. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Wilmington in the Winter?

Both Wilmington and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wilmington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, La Paz is much warmer than Wilmington. Typically, the winter temperatures in La Paz in January average around 18°C (65°F), and Wilmington averages at about 45°F (7°C).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Wilmington. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wilmington receives 180 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Wilmington. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Wilmington receives 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Wilmington in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Wilmington. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Wilmington in the spring for the beaches.

In April, La Paz is generally a little warmer than Wilmington. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 23°C (73°F), and Wilmington fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wilmington this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wilmington during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Wilmington receives 278 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Wilmington. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Wilmington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for Wilmington and La Paz

La Paz Wilmington
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)