A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Puerto Vallarta vs. South Lake Tahoe for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and South Lake Tahoe can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a cultural, coastal, and colorful town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Puerto Vallarta travel costs.

South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe is a idyllic, scenic, and breathtaking town. You'll find world class beauty in South Lake Tahoe as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See South Lake Tahoe travel costs.

Puerto Vallarta and South Lake Tahoe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Puerto Vallarta. Although Puerto Vallarta and South Lake Tahoe are both popular with visitors, Puerto Vallarta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Puerto Vallarta is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while South Lake Tahoe is known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty. Puerto Vallarta is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to the Malecon. South Lake Tahoe is popular for its casino resorts, ski resorts, and beautiful setting.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from South Lake Tahoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between South Lake Tahoe and Puerto Vallarta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Skiing?

South Lake Tahoe is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a skiing destination.

South Lake Tahoe is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are three ski resorts in the area. Heavenly Mountain Resort is the largest, but if you're looking for something smaller, head to Kirkwood, which is tucked away and less well known. There's also Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort, which is popular with groups and families because it caters to a range of skill levels.

Puerto Vallarta is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Puerto Vallarta is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for its museums and history.

Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

While most people don't head to South Lake Tahoe specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time exploring the area's nature, but you can also stop by Tallac Historic Site or the Lake Tahoe Historical Society Museum.

Is the Food Better in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Puerto Vallarta. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

South Lake Tahoe is becoming an appealing option for foodies. While most resorts have their own restaurants, there are a number of options around town that specialize in "alpine comfort cuisine", which is worth sampling. You'll also find plenty of cafes that serve up a hearty breakfast - the perfect way to start an active day.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Nightlife?

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

South Lake Tahoe is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The resort town has plenty of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. There are outdoor options when the weather is warm as well as indoor settings for cooler weather. You'll also find casinos and live shows.

Puerto Vallarta has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

Puerto Vallarta offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

In South Lake Tahoe, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It's a resort town, so there are plenty of options to choose from, many with pools, spas, or casinos.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Puerto Vallarta to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

South Lake Tahoe is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for the beach. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Puerto Vallarta. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

South Lake Tahoe is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Hiking?

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit South Lake Tahoe specifically for its hiking. There are miles of beautiful hikes in the area that follow the lake's shore or explore the diverse terrain. Skyline Trail Hike is a favorite. It is accessible by lift and offers spectacular views. For a relaxing stroll check out Fallen Leaf Lake Hike.

Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Puerto Vallarta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

South Lake Tahoe has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most of the shopping involves retailers selling ski gear or outdoor equipment. There are also clothing shops, gift stores, and some art galleries.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe More Beautiful?

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in South Lake Tahoe as well. The pristine lake and striking natural beauty can be appreciated any time of the year.

Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Families?

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

South Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the outdoor adventures that the area is filled with. There are gondolas, lakefront beaches, adventure parks, and tubing. There are also miles of hiking trails and a beautiful setting that even the young ones will appreciate.

Puerto Vallarta is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Couples?

South Lake Tahoe is renowned for couples. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, South Lake Tahoe has plenty to offer. It's beautiful setting and wide variety of adventurous activities make this the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The lake has hidden coves and nearby hiking trails. There are also hot springs, gondolas, and carriage rides. You can go hiking when the weather is warm or skiing when the weather is cold.

Puerto Vallarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, South Lake Tahoe is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Puerto Vallarta is a great town to visit for backpackers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

South Lake Tahoe is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in the area and the skiing and hiking attracts the backpacker crowd.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Vallarta is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, South Lake Tahoe is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Puerto Vallarta has a few public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in South Lake Tahoe. While there are some shuttles and buses, if you really want to explore the area, you'll need your own car.

Is Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta and South Lake Tahoe both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Puerto Vallarta is a very walkable destination. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

South Lake Tahoe is very walkable. Once you get to town, the area is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is South Lake Tahoe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in South Lake Tahoe or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

In either Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Puerto Vallarta has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than South Lake Tahoe. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than South Lake Tahoe 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 Puerto Vallarta.

One day in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the laid-back destination of Puerto Vallarta. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The scenic destination of South Lake Tahoe offers skiing and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

You'll find shopping and museums around the colorful town of Puerto Vallarta. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

The town of South Lake Tahoe offers nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

South Lake Tahoe is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Puerto Vallarta is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting South Lake Tahoe. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and South Lake Tahoe, we can see that South Lake Tahoe is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Puerto Vallarta Expensive? and Is South Lake Tahoe Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or South Lake Tahoe?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of South Lake Tahoe. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta and South Lake Tahoe, 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.