A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Big Sur vs. Honolulu for Beaches, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Big Sur or Honolulu?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Big Sur and Honolulu can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Big Sur and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Big Sur or Honolulu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Honolulu than Big Sur, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Honolulu is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Big Sur is more popular for its impressive beauty. Honolulu is more touristy than Big Sur and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Big Sur is well known for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views.

How is Big Sur different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Big Sur or Honolulu?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Honolulu is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is great for its evening party scene. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Honolulu for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Big Sur for the nightlife. There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Big Sur is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Honolulu is a perfect choice. 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.

Big Sur is not a resort destination.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Honolulu. 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.

Big Sur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its beaches.

With world-famous beaches, Honolulu is a very popular vacation 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Big Sur. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking. 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.

Big Sur is a popular spot for hiking. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Sur or Honolulu?

Honolulu is great for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination 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.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Big Sur is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Both Big Sur and Honolulu are amazing destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Big Sur has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

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.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Honolulu is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Is Big Sur or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is great for its ease of walking around. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Big Sur is not a walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Big Sur?

How long in Big Sur or Honolulu?

Both Big Sur 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 Big Sur. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Big Sur. 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 Big Sur. 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 Big Sur 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.

One day in Big Sur or Honolulu?

The beautiful natural area of Big Sur offers food. 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.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Big Sur or Honolulu?

Big Sur is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this natural area makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Sur, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Big Sur or Honolulu?

Big Sur 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.

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 Big Sur or Honolulu?

Big Sur 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 natural area offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Big Sur and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is Big Sur much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Big Sur would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Big Sur 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 Big Sur.

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

When is the best time to visit Big Sur 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 Big Sur or Honolulu in the Summer?

Both Honolulu and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Big Sur is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the summer temperatures in Big Sur in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Honolulu averages at about 81°F (27°C).

In July, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Big Sur or Honolulu in the Autumn?

Both Honolulu and Big Sur during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Honolulu for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Big Sur is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 62°F (17°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 80°F (26°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in October than Honolulu. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Big Sur or Honolulu in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Honolulu. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Big Sur is much colder than Honolulu in the winter. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In January, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Honolulu. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Big Sur or Honolulu in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Honolulu. The spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In the spring, Big Sur is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the spring temperatures in Big Sur in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Honolulu averages at about 76°F (24°C).

Big Sur usually gets less rain in April than Honolulu. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Big Sur