A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boston vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Boston or Honolulu?

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 Boston and Honolulu. 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.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Boston and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Boston or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Boston. While Boston is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Boston is known for its theatre productions, music, historical sights, christmas markets, and quaint atmosphere. Honolulu is more touristy than Boston and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. Boston is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities.

How is Boston different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Boston and Honolulu have fantastic landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Boston that are not to be missed. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Boston or Honolulu Better for Theater?

Boston is great for theatre. However, Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Honolulu is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Boston and Honolulu can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Honolulu has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are very good in both Boston and Honolulu.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Honolulu has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Boston or Honolulu Better for Music?

Boston is a city with good options for live music. However, Honolulu is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Honolulu is not a live music destination.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Boston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Honolulu for its luxury resorts. 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.

Boston is not a resort destination.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Boston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Boston is a mediocre city for the beache.

Honolulu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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 can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Boston offers plenty to see. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Boston is not a hiking destination.

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Boston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Boston or Honolulu?

Honolulu is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Christmas?

Boston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Honolulu does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a large number of Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Families?

Both Boston and Honolulu are fantastic family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Boston is very family-friendly. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Honolulu is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Honolulu is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Boston or Honolulu Better for Students?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Honolulu is not popular with students.

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Honolulu is not popular with students.

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

Boston is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Visitors in Boston can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

Honolulu has a few public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Is Boston or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Boston is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Boston?

How long in Boston or Honolulu?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Honolulu than Boston. 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 Boston 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 Boston or Honolulu?

Boston is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Honolulu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Boston or Honolulu?

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Boston or Honolulu?

Boston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Boston, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Boston or Honolulu?

Boston is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic big city of Honolulu. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Boston and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu 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 Boston Expensive? and Is Honolulu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Boston or Honolulu?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Boston 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 Boston or Honolulu?

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 Boston or Honolulu in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Boston as well as Honolulu. Most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Honolulu because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Boston is cooler than Honolulu in the summer. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Honolulu fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Honolulu. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In the summer, Boston often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Honolulu. Boston gets 304 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 303 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets more rain in July than Honolulu. Boston gets 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Honolulu in the Autumn?

Both Honolulu and Boston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Honolulu this time of year.

In the autumn, Boston is much colder than Honolulu. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Boston in October average around 54°F (12°C), and Honolulu averages at about 80°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Honolulu. Boston usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during autumn. Boston gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 246 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Boston usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Boston gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 2.1 inches (54 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Boston or Honolulu in the Winter?

Both Honolulu and Boston during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Honolulu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. In January, Boston is generally much colder than Honolulu. Daily temperatures in Boston average around 29°F (-2°C), and Honolulu fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Honolulu, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Boston often gets less sunshine than Honolulu. Boston gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Honolulu receives 212 hours of full sun.

Boston usually gets less rain in January than Honolulu. Boston gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Boston or Honolulu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Boston and Honolulu. Many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Honolulu in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Boston is much colder than Honolulu in the spring. The daily temperature in Boston averages around 48°F (9°C) in April, and Honolulu fluctuates around 76°F (24°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Honolulu this time of the year. In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Boston usually receives less sunshine than Honolulu during spring. Boston gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Honolulu receives 253 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Boston usually receives more rain than Honolulu. Boston gets 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain, while Honolulu receives 1.7 inches (42 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Honolulu and Boston