A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Acadia National Park vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Beaches, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Acadia National Park or Honolulu, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a picturesque, beautiful, and scenic national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Acadia National Park and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor


Is there more to do in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Honolulu than Acadia National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Acadia National Park and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Acadia National Park is well known for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

How is Acadia National Park different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Honolulu and Acadia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Honolulu has many famous sights for visitors. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.


Is the Food Better in Acadia National Park or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Honolulu has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Honolulu has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Acadia National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Acadia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Acadia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for the beach. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Acadia National Park. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Known for its hiking, Honolulu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Acadia National Park. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.


Is the Shopping Better in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Honolulu. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Families?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

Acadia National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Honolulu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.


Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

Acadia National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Honolulu has some public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is generally limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Is Acadia National Park or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Acadia National Park
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Honolulu is a very walkable destination. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

Acadia National Park is generally not very walkable. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.


For even more information, also check out Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Acadia National Park?

How long in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Both Acadia National Park and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Acadia National Park. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Acadia National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Acadia National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Honolulu, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Acadia National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Honolulu that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu than Acadia National Park 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 Honolulu.


  • How many days in Acadia National Park or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Acadia National Park 1-3 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

The beautiful national park of Acadia National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Honolulu is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Acadia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Acadia National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Honolulu is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Acadia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Honolulu for five days. Honolulu is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.


A week in Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, one week is sufficent for most.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Honolulu or Acadia National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Acadia National Park is $173, while the average daily cost in Honolulu is $284. 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 Acadia National Park and Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Acadia National Park $96
    Honolulu $183
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Acadia National Park $192
    Honolulu $366
Compare Hotels in Acadia National Park and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in Acadia National Park or Honolulu? 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 Acadia National Park


Hotels in Honolulu


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: Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Acadia National Park $46
    Honolulu $26

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Honolulu

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Honolulu are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35
  • Airport Shuttle for Two
    $30
  • Hilton Parking
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Honolulu

Also for Honolulu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • VIP Transfer: Ko Olina to Honolulu Airport or Vice Versa: $199
  • VIP Transfer Between Waikiki and Honolulu Airport, Vice versa: $139
  • VIP Transfer Between Waikiki & Honolulu Airport, /vice versa: $136
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Honolulu HTL-APT (HNL): $81
  • Shared Round-Trip Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $39
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Oahu Hotels or Cruise Terminal to Honolulu Airport: $20
  • Shared Departure Transfer from Waikiki Hotels to Honolulu Airport: $18
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $20
  • Shared Arrival Transfer from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotels: $18
  • Private Transfers between HNL Airport and Honolulu City: $56
  • Private Transfer: Waikiki to Honolulu Airport HNL by Sedan: $108
  • Private Transfer: Honolulu Airport HNL to Honolulu in Sedan Car: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu and Acadia National Park 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
    Acadia National Park $45
    Honolulu $53
Typical Food Prices in Acadia National Park

For Acadia National Park, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    $32

Typical Food Prices in Honolulu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Honolulu:


  • Dinner for Two
    $73
  • Lapperts Hawaii Ice Cream
    $5.55
  • Chai's Island Bistro (for 2)
    $53
  • Cheeseburger Waikiki (for 2)
    $34
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice (for 2)
    $7.50
  • Hot Dog with the Fixins'
    $8.30
  • Sushi Dinner for Two
    $73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hawaii Food Tour - Off The Beaten Path : $150
  • Oahu Da Local's Food Tour: $150
  • Lanai Tabura curated Private Aloha Plate Food Tour from Honolulu: $239

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Acadia National Park $33
    Honolulu $40

Typical Entertainment Prices in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Parking for Hike
    $5.00
  • Pearl Harbor Audio Tour for Two
    $12
  • 2 hr Dinner Cruise
    $85
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $36

Tours and Activities in Honolulu

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

  • Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial, small group Tour: $80
  • 'Lost' and Movie Tour: $200
  • 1 Hour Private Luxury Classic Car Sightseeing City Tour Honolulu: $138
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing *SPECIALTY Tour: $149
  • 3 Hour Sunrise Photo Tour with Malasada: $65
  • 3 Hour Waikiki Waterslide and Ocean Playground Cruise: $113
  • 3-Hour Adventure in Waikiki Water Park Adventure: $127
  • 5 Hour Half Day Island Jeep Tour: $190
  • 5 Hour Small Group Tour in Pearl Harbor and Honolulu: $145
  • 5-Star Oahu Sightseeing with local food & shrimp plate included: $133
  • 6 Hour Local Food Plate Jeep Tour: $230
  • 6 Hour Romantic Hawaii Jeep Tour: $276

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Acadia National Park $11
    Honolulu $6.47


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Acadia National Park Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Acadia National Park or Honolulu?

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 Acadia National Park or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Acadia National Park and Honolulu. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Acadia National Park is cooler than Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Acadia National Park in July average around 69°F (21°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In July, Acadia National Park usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C) 
    Honolulu 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Acadia National Park as well as Honolulu. Many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Acadia National Park is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Acadia National Park average around 48°F (9°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Honolulu. Acadia National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Honolulu 80°F (26°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Acadia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Acadia National Park is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Acadia National Park averages around 18°F (-8°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In January, Acadia National Park usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Acadia National Park gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C) 
    Honolulu 73°F (23°C)

Should I visit Acadia National Park or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Acadia National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Acadia National Park is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Acadia National Park in April average around 43°F (6°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Acadia National Park usually gets more rain in April than Honolulu. Acadia National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C) 
    Honolulu 76°F (24°C)

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park Honolulu
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm)
Mar 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm) 74°F (24°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 76°F (24°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
May 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 78°F (25°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
Jun 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 80°F (26°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Jul 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.6 inches (15 mm)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.7 inches (19 mm)
Oct 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 80°F (26°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Nov 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 77°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Dec 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm) 74°F (23°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)