A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Alexandria vs. Kauai for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Alexandria or Kauai?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Kauai. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a charming, quaint, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Alexandria and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mount Vernon
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Alexandria or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Alexandria and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Alexandria attracts visitors for its museums & sights, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Kauai is more touristy than Alexandria and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Alexandria is famous for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere.

How is Alexandria different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Kauai?

Alexandria
Kauai

Alexandria is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Alexandria. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Kauai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.


Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria
Kauai

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

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The food in Kauai combines the island's diverse cultures into a unique mix of flavors. There's fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and, of course, spam. You'll find common dishes like poke bowls and coconut shrimp, as well as more local dishes such as poi and lomi lomi.

Alexandria offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Alexandria
Kauai

The vibe at night is nice in both Alexandria and Kauai.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kauai. The island has more of a relaxed vibe than a party vibe, but there are plenty of places to listen to live music. There are also local dive bars as well as wine bars and upscale lounges where you can enjoy a drink. Many often have a dance floor as well.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Alexandria
Kauai

Kauai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Alexandria is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Kauai for its luxury resorts. You'll find major resorts of all forms and sizes. Most of the major hotel chains have resorts on the island, including the Marriott, the Sheraton, and Hyatt.

Alexandria is not a resort destination.


Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Alexandria
Kauai

Kauai is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Kauai. There aren't as many snorkeling and diving options as there are on some of the other Hawaiian islands, but you'll still find plenty of places to enjoy the underwater world. Popular snorkeling spots around the island include Ke'e Beach, Haena Beach Park, and Anini Beach.

Alexandria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Alexandria
Kauai

Kauai is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Kauai offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is filled with scenic beaches and idyllic coastline. The water conditions can be highly variable, so you should check with a local before entering the water. But the island has about 50 miles of sandy coastline that will take your breath away. You'll also likely see Hawaiian monk seals or sea turtles on the beach.

Alexandria is not a beach destination.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria
Kauai

Alexandria is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Kauai does not have a historic old town.

Alexandria has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Kauai does not have a historic old town.


Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Alexandria
Kauai

Kauai is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Kauai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Kauai is a beautiful island with world famous hikes through the stunning mountains. The hiking trails take you through lush rainforests and along scenic coastlines. The mountains climb high and the trails range from easy to challenging. Popular hikes include the Awawawapuhi Nualolo Trail, the Cliff Trail to Waipoo Falls, and the Kalalau Trail.IL

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Kauai?

Alexandria
Kauai

Alexandria is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Kauai is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Families?

Alexandria
Kauai

Kauai is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kauai. There are kid-friendly hikes, beautiful bike rides, and many family-friendly beaches. Do keep in mind that many beaches have strong currents and large waves, so they're not the most kid-friendly. Good options include Poipu Beach and Lydgate Beach Park.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.


Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Couples?

Alexandria
Kauai

Kauai is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Alexandria is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Kauai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. "The Garden Isle" is a world class honeymoon destination with stunning beaches and iconic hikes. There are romantic resorts and many adventure activities that couples can enjoy such as whale watching and scuba diving.

Alexandria is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Alexandria
Kauai

For backpackers, both Alexandria and Kauai are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kauai. There are a couple of hostels on the island, but you'll likely need a car to get around, which can make this an expensive destination.

Is Alexandria or Kauai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria
Kauai

Alexandria is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Kauai is not known for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Alexandria can take you anywhere. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.


Is Alexandria or Kauai a more walkable city?

Alexandria
Kauai

Alexandria is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Kauai is not a walkable city. While there are great hikes on the island, you really need a car to get most places.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Kauai?

Alexandria and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Alexandria because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Kauai 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 Alexandria.


  • How many days in Alexandria or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Alexandria 2-4 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Alexandria or Kauai?

In Alexandria, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the scenic island of Kauai, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Alexandria or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Kauai, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Alexandria or Kauai?

Alexandria is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Alexandria. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kauai, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint destination of Alexandria. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kauai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Alexandria?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Alexandria is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $190. 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 Alexandria and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Alexandria $38
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Alexandria $76
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Alexandria and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Alexandria or Kauai? 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 Alexandria


Hotels in Kauai


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: Alexandria Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

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

  • Private SUV Transfer - Lihue Airport to South Shore Kauai Resorts Koloa Poipu: $179
  • Lihue Airport: Shared Transfer to Lihue: $19
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Kauai Hotels to Kauai International Airport: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Alexandria or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Alexandria 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
    Alexandria -
    Kauai $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kauai

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

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Private Food Tour of Kaua'i: $125
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $152
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $189
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sailboat Tour with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • VIP 4-Course Dinner and Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House Dinner & Show: $237
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $241
  • Private Chef, Catering and Cooking Classes : $285

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Alexandria -
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Alexandria

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

  • Alexandria & Mt Vernon Tour: $99
  • American Revolution Guided Walking Tour: $30
  • Full-Day Bike Tour to Mt Vernon w/ Optional Boat: $68
  • Phantoms of the Potomac Walking Tour: $24
  • Private Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon: $165
  • Ultimate Dead of Night Walking Ghost Tour: $32
  • Amazing Alexandria Amazing Race & Tour: $24
  • Old Town Southern Comfort Food & History Tour: $127

Tours and Activities in Kauai

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

  • 'Imiloa Express Na Pali Sunset Tour: $152
  • 'Imiloa Express Nā Pali Snorkel Tour : $171
  • 'Imiloa Express Whale Watch Cocktail Tour: $136
  • 5 Hrs. Kauai Eastside Small Group Tour. Short & sweet: $173
  • Adventure Photography Session: $300
  • Cruise Ship Shore Excursion: Kauai Movie Sites Tour: $173
  • Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady: $223
  • Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady: $212
  • Entire Kauai Air Tour - ALL WINDOW SEATS: $159
  • FUV Self Guided Island Adventure Tour : $300
  • From USS Arizona Memorial and Honolulu City Tour: $339
  • Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Alexandria -
    Kauai $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Alexandria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Alexandria:

  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $28


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

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



When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Kauai?

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 Alexandria or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Alexandria because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Alexandria is around the same temperature as Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alexandria usually receives more rain than Kauai. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Alexandria 79°F (26°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Alexandria is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Alexandria 60°F (15°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Kauai. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alexandria. In January, Alexandria is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Kauai during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Kauai. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Alexandria 35°F (1°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Alexandria or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Kauai. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Alexandria is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Alexandria 56°F (14°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Alexandria

Alexandria Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 35°F (1°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 56°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 66°F (19°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 71°F (22°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 60°F (15°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 50°F (10°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 39°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)