A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bangkok vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Bangkok or Honolulu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bangkok and Honolulu can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bangkok

Bangkok is a high energy, cultural, and alluring capital city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a energetic, vibrant, and multi-cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bangkok and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Bangkok. While Bangkok is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Bangkok is known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Honolulu is more touristy than Bangkok and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Bangkok is popular for its colorful temples, lively markets, wild nightlife, and sprawling shopping malls.

How is Bangkok different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Both Bangkok and Honolulu have world-class landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bangkok that are not to be missed. The city is filled with golden temples and beautiful statues of Buddha. Famous landmarks include the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Wat Arun, and the Temple of the Golden Buddha.

The museums and tourist attractions in Honolulu are world-renowned. 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.

Is the Food Better in Bangkok or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Bangkok have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has many colorful markets, street food vendors, and a range of restaurants from casual to high end. The aroma and beautiful flavors of local dishes are a big part of the experience in this city. Dishes that you must try include Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), and Gaeng Daeng (red curry). Many foods are very spicy so make sure you order with "no spice" if that is your preference.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Honolulu. 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.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Bangkok is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Cheap drinks, late nights, and crazy parties make this city a favorite for backpackers and young party-goers. Head to Khao San Road for the biggest crowds and crazy parties. Nana Plaza is another option with a three story building that is filled with bars and clubs.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Bangkok is not a resort destination.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Bangkok is not a resort destination.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Bangkok is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Bangkok is not a beach destination.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Around Honolulu visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Bangkok is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Bangkok. Shopping options range from modern malls to more traditional markets. The malls offer bargain prices for technology and gadgets while the markets offer fabric, food, local goods, and a unique experience. The city also has nearby floating markets as well as night markets, which let you experience a different side to the culture.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bangkok is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bangkok is very family-friendly. This city is full of energy and kids will love the vibrant atmosphere. There are colorful temples, spirited markets, and kid-friendly museums. It's good to choose a hotel with a pool, as temperatures can get hot during the day. Kids will also enjoy having new experiences like riding in a tuk tuk or taking a boat ride. There are also a number of amusement parks and entertainment centers around town.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Both Bangkok and Honolulu are world-class destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bangkok is a great capital city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This is a great city for couples who enjoy culture, food, partying, and soaking up life. Wandering the grounds of the stunning temples, sampling food at the markets, or taking a boat cruise will all make memorable experiences.

Honolulu is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bangkok is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Bangkok. This part of the world is a mecca for backpackers, and many arrive or depart from this city. It's filled with hostels and budget accommodation, as well as entertainment, bars, tours (and even scams so stay alert). The most famous backpacker area is around Khao San Road, where you'll find parties, bars, street food, and large crowds. If you're looking for a slightly more mellow vibe, you should consider a different area like Phaya Thai.

Honolulu is a great capital city to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bangkok and Honolulu.

You'll find some public transit in Bangkok, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Skytrain and Metro are the most efficient way to get around. The city's crazy traffic can make buses and taxis a bit frustrating, but tuk tuks are also a fun option.

While Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Bangkok or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is a great destination for its walkability. However, Bangkok is a capital city with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

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

Bangkok is generally not a very walkable capital city. The crowds and size make walking a bit challenging, so it's best to plan your day in advance.

For even more information, also check out Is Bangkok Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Bangkok?

How long in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Both Bangkok and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Honolulu has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Honolulu than Bangkok. In general, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Bangkok, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Bangkok. 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 Bangkok. 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 Bangkok than Honolulu 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 Bangkok.

One day in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Bangkok is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Honolulu, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Bangkok is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this capital city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Honolulu, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Bangkok is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bangkok, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Bangkok or Honolulu?

Bangkok is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bangkok has to offer. This capital city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. In Honolulu, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bangkok and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Bangkok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bangkok is in Asia and Honolulu is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bangkok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bangkok 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 Bangkok.

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

Which is Bigger, Bangkok or Honolulu?

Bangkok has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Bangkok and Honolulu, 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.

When is the best time to visit Bangkok or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Bangkok experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Bangkok during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Bangkok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

Bangkok is around the same temperature as Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Bangkok often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Bangkok gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Bangkok gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bangkok or Honolulu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bangkok and Honolulu. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Bangkok year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bangkok is around the same temperature as Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bangkok in October average around 28°C (83°F), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Bangkok, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bangkok usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during autumn. Bangkok gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bangkok gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Bangkok gets 242 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. November to February in Bangkok is the dry season. Also, May to October is the rainy season in Bangkok.

Should I visit Bangkok or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bangkok as well as Honolulu. Bangkok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Honolulu in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Bangkok is generally a little warmer than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Bangkok average around 27°C (80°F), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bangkok this time of the year. In the winter, Bangkok often gets more sunshine than Honolulu. Bangkok gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bangkok usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Bangkok gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to February in Bangkok is the dry season.

Should I visit Bangkok or Honolulu in the Spring?

Both Honolulu and Bangkok are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Bangkok throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

Bangkok is a little warmer than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Bangkok averages around 31°C (87°F) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bangkok. Bangkok usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu during spring. Bangkok gets 262 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bangkok usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Bangkok gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Bangkok is May to October.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Bangkok