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

Should you visit Berkeley or Kauai?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley 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.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a diverse, quirky, and progressive city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Berkeley and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berkeley or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Berkeley 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 Berkeley attracts visitors for its museums & sights, nightlife, and shopping. Kauai is more touristy than Berkeley and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Berkeley is famous for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques.

How is Berkeley different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

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 Berkeley or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Berkeley and Kauai.

Dining out in Berkeley is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kauai. 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 Berkeley or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley 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 Berkeley has something for everybody. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

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 Berkeley or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is renowned for its resorts. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a resort destination.

Is Berkeley or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Berkeley or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is renowned for the beach. However, Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is not a beach destination.

Is Berkeley or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley 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

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Kauai?

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

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

Is Berkeley or Kauai Better for Families?

Kauai is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Kauai is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Berkeley is a family-friendly city. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is renowned for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.

Is Berkeley or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley 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 Berkeley. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

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 Berkeley or Kauai Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

Berkeley 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 Berkeley can take you anywhere. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

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 Berkeley or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Berkeley is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

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 Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Kauai?

Berkeley and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Berkeley because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Berkeley, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

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

One day in Berkeley or Kauai?

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quirky 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.

The beautiful island of Kauai offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Berkeley or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Berkeley. 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.

Kauai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Berkeley or Kauai?

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

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

A week in Berkeley or Kauai?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse destination of Berkeley. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kauai has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Berkeley and Kauai, we can see that Berkeley is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Berkeley or Kauai?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Berkeley or Kauai in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Kauai. Many travelers come to Berkeley 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.

Berkeley is cooler than Kauai in the summer. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 63°F (17°C) in July, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

Berkeley usually gets less rain in July than Kauai. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Kauai in the Autumn?

Both Kauai and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Berkeley in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Berkeley is cooler than Kauai. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Berkeley in October average around 63°F (17°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

In October, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Kauai. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Berkeley or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Berkeley during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Berkeley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Berkeley is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 50°F (10°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Berkeley usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Kauai. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Berkeley or Kauai in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Kauai. The spring months attract visitors to Berkeley because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Berkeley is much colder than Kauai in the spring. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 58°F (14°C) in April, and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In April, Berkeley usually receives more rain than Kauai. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Berkeley