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

Should you visit Arlington or Kauai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arlington or Kauai, 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.

Arlington

Arlington is a educational, international, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Arlington and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Arlington National Cemetery
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
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 Arlington or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Arlington and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Arlington attracts visitors for its museums and nightlife. Kauai is more touristy than Arlington and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Arlington is famous for its international connections, its biking and walking trails, and being the location of the Pentagon.

How is Arlington different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Arlington
Kauai

Arlington 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 Arlington. Arlington National Cemetery is where you'll find the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the tomb of John F. Kennedy Jr. There are many memorials around town, with the most famous being the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial. There are also several museums like the DEA Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

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 Arlington or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arlington
Kauai

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Arlington and Kauai.

Arlington has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a global city, and the restaurants reflect that. You'll find amazing Thai, Japanese, and Mexican restaurants. There are also less common cuisines to choose from such as Ethiopian, Moroccan, and Peruvian.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kauai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Arlington
Kauai

Arlington is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife.

The nightlife in Arlington has something for everybody. The city has a huge young population that drives the nightlife scene. There are clubs, bars, and lounges in many neighborhoods. There are also comedy clubs and plenty of live music.

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 Arlington or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Arlington
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Arlington is not a resort destination.

Kauai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Arlington is not a resort destination.


Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arlington
Kauai

Kauai is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Kauai to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Arlington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Arlington
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for the beach. However, Arlington is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Kauai are among the best in 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.

Arlington is not a beach destination.

Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Arlington
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Arlington is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kauai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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

Arlington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arlington or Kauai?

Arlington
Kauai

Shoppers can find a variety of nice stores in both Arlington and Kauai.

Arlington has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Many neighborhoods have local shops or farmer's markets. There are also shopping centers and malls such as Ballston Quarter, The Crossing Clarendon, and The Village at Shirlington.

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

Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Families?

Arlington
Kauai

Kauai is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Arlington. Kids will enjoy seeing the planes talk off from Gravelly Point park. There are also plenty of outdoor spaces and educational opportunities in the area, including world class museums.

Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Couples?

Arlington
Kauai

Kauai is terrific for couples. Also, Arlington is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kauai has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. "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.

Arlington is a nice destination for couples. There's a vibrant cultural scene and many international restaurants that couples can enjoy. It's also a great place to take in a show or concert.


Is Arlington or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arlington
Kauai

Arlington is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Arlington. There are a couple of hostels and many free activities nearby. There's also great public transportation that makes for a convenient backpacker destination.

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 Arlington or Kauai Better for Students?

Arlington
Kauai

Arlington is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

Many students visit Arlington. There are a huge number of colleges and museums in the area as well as many great internship and educational opportunities.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

Arlington
Kauai

Arlington 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 Arlington can take you anywhere. There is a reliable bus system around town as well as many metro connections.

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 Arlington or Kauai a more walkable city?

Arlington
Kauai

Arlington is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Arlington is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian-friendly areas around town, particularly in the neighborhoods that are concentrated around metro stations.

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 Arlington Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Arlington?

How long in Arlington or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Arlington. 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 Arlington. 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 Arlington 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 Arlington.


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

One day in Arlington or Kauai?

In Arlington, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Kauai. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Arlington or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arlington. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Kauai. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Arlington or Kauai?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the scenic island of Kauai. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

A week in Arlington or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Arlington. 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 choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kauai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Arlington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arlington is $264, 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 Arlington and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arlington $131
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arlington $262
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Arlington and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Arlington 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 Arlington


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: Arlington Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arlington $49
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arlington

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

  • Ronald Reagan DCA Airport Transfers: $160

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

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

  • Shared Departure Transfer: Kauai Hotels to Kauai International Airport: $13
  • Private SUV Transfer - Lihue Airport to South Shore Kauai Resorts Koloa Poipu: $179
  • Private SUV Transfer - Kauai Cruise Ship terminal : $199
  • Private Departure Transfer to Kauai Airport (LIH): $80
  • Lihue Airport: Shared Transfer to Lihue: $19

Is it cheaper to fly into Arlington or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Arlington 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
    Arlington $81
    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
  • Ahi Uila Fire Show and Dinner: $110
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Explore Waimea Town on a Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $171
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $209
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sail with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House Dinner & Show: $226
  • VIP 4-Course Dinner and Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arlington $11
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Kauai

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

  • 'IMILOA - Express Na Pali Sunset Tour: $161
  • 'IMILOA - Express Nā Pali Snorkel Tour : $181
  • 'IMILOA - Express Whale Watch Cocktail Tour: $136
  • 1 Tank Discover Scuba at Koloa Landing with No Experience needed: $162
  • 2-Hour Snorkeling Adventure in Kauai: $115
  • 5 Hrs. Kauai Eastside Small Group Tour. Short & sweet: $162
  • 5 Line Zipline Tour: $130
  • 8 Line Zipline Tour: $160
  • Cruise Ship Excursion: Kauai – Wailua River Cruise & Fern Grotto: $99
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arlington $17
    Kauai $14


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

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



When is the best time to visit Arlington 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 Arlington or Kauai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arlington and Kauai. Many travelers come to Arlington for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Arlington, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arlington usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Arlington gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arlington usually receives more rain than Kauai. Arlington 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
    Arlington 79°F (26°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arlington as well as Kauai. Many visitors come to Arlington in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. In the autumn, Arlington often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai. Arlington gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Arlington 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
    Arlington 60°F (15°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Arlington are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arlington for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Arlington can be very cold during winter. In January, Arlington is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Arlington average around 35°F (1°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

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

In January, Arlington usually receives less rain than Kauai. Arlington 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
    Arlington 35°F (1°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Arlington or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Arlington during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

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

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arlington. In the spring, Arlington often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Arlington gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Arlington usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Arlington 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
    Arlington 56°F (14°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Arlington

Arlington 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)