Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta? A Real-World Budget Breakdown

See how Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta compare at three budget levels

Budget: $3,000 for 2 travelers, 7 nights
Category Cabo San Lucas Puerto Vallarta
Flights $1,600 $1,300
Hotels $1,500 $1,500
Dining $1,120 $1,120
Activities $840 $840
Total Estimated $5,060 $4,760
Budget Remaining $-2,060 $-1,760
Budget: $5,000 for 2 travelers, 7 nights
Category Cabo San Lucas Puerto Vallarta
Flights $1,600 $1,300
Hotels $1,500 $1,500
Dining $1,120 $1,120
Activities $840 $840
Total Estimated $5,060 $4,760
Budget Remaining $-60 $240
Budget: $8,000 for 2 travelers, 7 nights
Category Cabo San Lucas Puerto Vallarta
Flights $1,600 $1,300
Hotels $1,500 $1,500
Dining $1,120 $1,120
Activities $840 $840
Total Estimated $5,060 $4,760
Budget Remaining $2,940 $3,240

Frequently Asked Questions

Cabo San Lucas

When is the best time to visit Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos)?

The best time to visit Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos) is November-May. Peak season runs November-April, offering the best weather but higher prices and larger crowds. Shoulder season (May, October) provides a great balance of good weather and lower prices. Note that hurricane season is June-November.

How much does a trip to Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos) cost?

A typical daily cost in Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos) is $350-600/person per person. Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos) is generally considered a upscale destination.

Do I need a passport to visit Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos)?

Yes, US citizens need a valid passport to visit Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos). No visa is required for US citizens for short stays.

How do I get to Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos)?

The main airport serving Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos) is Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). The primary language spoken is Spanish, English widely spoken. The currency used is Mexican Peso (MXN).

Where should I stay in Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos)?

Cabo San Lucas (Los Cabos) offers 17 accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Popular choices include One&Only Palmilla, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort, Grand Velas Los Cabos.

Puerto Vallarta

When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is November-May. Peak season runs December-April, offering the best weather but higher prices and larger crowds. Shoulder season (May, November) provides a great balance of good weather and lower prices. Note that hurricane season is June-November.

How much does a trip to Puerto Vallarta cost?

A typical daily cost in Puerto Vallarta is $250-400/person per person. Puerto Vallarta is generally considered a moderate destination.

Do I need a passport to visit Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, US citizens need a valid passport to visit Puerto Vallarta. No visa is required for US citizens for short stays.

How do I get to Puerto Vallarta?

The main airport serving Puerto Vallarta is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). The primary language spoken is Spanish, English widely spoken. The currency used is Mexican Peso (MXN).

Where should I stay in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta offers 14 accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury resorts. Popular choices include Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Casa Velas.

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