A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Breckenridge vs. Honolulu for Resorts, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Breckenridge or Honolulu?

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

Should I visit Breckenridge or Honolulu? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a breathtaking, adventurous, and scenic ski resort. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant, multi-cultural, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Breckenridge and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less hiking options
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
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor


Is there more to do in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Honolulu. Although Breckenridge and Honolulu are popular destinations, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Breckenridge attracts visitors for its skiing, historical sights, christmas markets, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Honolulu is more touristy than Breckenridge and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor. Breckenridge is famous for its world-class ski resorts, its charming small town atmosphere, and its family-friendly environment.

How is Breckenridge different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Skiing?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Honolulu is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Breckenridge. This is one of the most recognizable ski destinations in the world. It has diverse terrain that is good for all levels including beginners, intermediate, and expert skiers. The resort also has the tallest chairlift in North America.

Honolulu is not a skiing destination.


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

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Honolulu are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Breckenridge does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Breckenridge is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town serving everything from casual to fine dining. There are bistros, pubs, and luxury options where you can enjoy international or local dishes including elk and buffalo.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its evening party scene.

Honolulu offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Breckenridge. The town comes to life in the winter and there are plenty of bars, breweries, and a wide selection of craft beer that you can try. Live music also brings the town to life in the evening.


Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great 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.

Breckenridge has a few great resort options. The resorts often have pools or hot tubs where you can unwind after a day on the slopes. Many have condos that include a kitchen and separate bedrooms.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Breckenridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Breckenridge is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Honolulu. 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.

Breckenridge is not a beach destination.


Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Breckenridge is a ski resort with good options for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Breckenridge is a good destination for visiting its old town. Originating as a mining town, there is a historic Main Street that is filled with character.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Honolulu specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Breckenridge. During the summer months there are plenty of beautiful hikes nearby, but you'll likely need a car to reach most trailheads. Popular trails include Hoosier Pass Loop, Blue Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch.

Is the Shopping Better in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Both Breckenridge and Honolulu are excellent shopping destinations.

Breckenridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quaint shops and galleries are throughout the town where you can by gear, artwork, or souvenirs.

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.


Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Christmas?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Breckenridge is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Breckenridge is a top place to visit during Christmas. From sledding to sleigh rides and hot chocolate, this town is absolutely magical during the Christmas season.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Christmas Markets?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

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

Breckenridge has a large number of Christmas markets. During the holiday season the Arts District hosts a Christmas Market.

Honolulu does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Families?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Breckenridge. It is a fun, family-friendly ski resort town with skiing for all levels. There are lessons for kids starting at the age of three, and slopes that are perfect for all skill levels. The town also has ice skating, sledding, and white water rafting.


Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for couples.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Breckenridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who enjoy skiing, outdoor activities, beautiful hikes, and a charming small town atmosphere, this is the perfect romantic getaway.

Is Breckenridge or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Breckenridge is not as famous, but is still a good ski resort to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Honolulu is a great 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.

Breckenridge is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The town has a hostel or two for skiers who want a social setting at an affordable price.

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

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Honolulu is a popular place for its public transit. However, Breckenridge is not a good ski resort for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Breckenridge. There is a free shuttle service around town.


Is Breckenridge or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Breckenridge
Honolulu

Breckenridge 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.

Breckenridge is a very easy ski resort to get around on foot. The town is designed to be pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Breckenridge?

How long in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Both Breckenridge 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 Breckenridge. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Breckenridge, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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


  • How many days in Breckenridge or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Breckenridge 3-7 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Breckenridge is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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.

Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Breckenridge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.


Five days in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

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

Each neighborhood in Honolulu has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Breckenridge is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Breckenridge has to offer. This ski resort offers something for everyone.

Honolulu is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Honolulu or Breckenridge?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Breckenridge is $200, while the average daily cost in Honolulu is $284. 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 Breckenridge and Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Breckenridge $106
    Honolulu $183
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Breckenridge $212
    Honolulu $366
Compare Hotels in Breckenridge and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in Breckenridge or Honolulu? 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 Breckenridge


Hotels in Honolulu


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: Breckenridge Hotel Prices and Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Breckenridge $19
    Honolulu $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Breckenridge

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Breckenridge:

  • Breckenridge/Keystone/Copper to Denver Airport-Departure Transfer: $196
  • Denver Airport APA to Breckenridge Ski Resort-Arrival Transfer: $196
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort to Denver Airport APA Departure Transfer: $195
  • Breckenridge to Denver Airport (DEN) - Departure Private Transfer: $192
  • Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge/Keystone-Round-Trip Transfer: $184

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Honolulu

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Honolulu are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35
  • Airport Shuttle for Two
    $30
  • Hilton Parking
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Honolulu

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

  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18
  • Shared Arrival Transfer from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotels: $18
  • Shared Departure Transfer from Waikiki Hotels to Honolulu Airport: $18
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $20
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Oahu Hotels or Cruise Terminal to Honolulu Airport: $20
  • Honolulu Airport Private Transfer to or from Waikiki: $32
  • Airport Private Transfer with Arrival Lei Greeting: $35
  • Honolulu Airport -Waikiki Arrival Private Transfer W/Lei Greeting: $35
  • Oahu: Honolulu Shuttle Bus Transfer to Pearl Harbor: $37
  • Shared Round-Trip Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $39
  • Oahu: Diamond Head Crater Trailhead Transfer & Entry Fee: $50
  • Honolulu Airport HNL to Waikiki-Arrival Private Transfer: $50

Is it cheaper to fly into Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu and Breckenridge 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
    Breckenridge $61
    Honolulu $53

Typical Food Prices in Honolulu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Honolulu:


  • Dinner for Two
    $73
  • Lapperts Hawaii Ice Cream
    $5.55
  • Chai's Island Bistro (for 2)
    $53
  • Cheeseburger Waikiki (for 2)
    $34
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice (for 2)
    $7.50
  • Hot Dog with the Fixins'
    $8.30
  • Sushi Dinner for Two
    $73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hawaii Food Tour - Off The Beaten Path : $150
  • Oahu Da Local's Food Tour: $150
  • Lanai Tabura curated Aloha Plate Hawaii Food Tour from Honolulu: $208
  • Lanai Tabura curated Private Aloha Plate Food Tour from Honolulu: $239

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Breckenridge $94
    Honolulu $40

Tours and Activities in Breckenridge

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Breckenridge are as follows:

  • 3 Hours 30 Minutes Colorado Astrophotography Experience: $260
  • Breckenridge Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Breckenridge Scavenger Hunt: Breckenridge Adventure: $12
  • Breckenridge Tours - Ghostly Tales : $33
  • Breckenridge Tours - Strange but True: $32
  • Continental Divide Tour: $145
  • Half-Day Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling: $94
  • Island Kayak Tour Experience in Frisco: $67
  • Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more: $47
  • Self-Guided Snow Shoe Tours: $17
  • Smartphone Driving Tour b/w Breckenridge & Denver: $7.99

Typical Entertainment Prices in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Parking for Hike
    $5.00
  • Pearl Harbor Audio Tour for Two
    $12
  • 2 hr Dinner Cruise
    $85
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $36

Tours and Activities in Honolulu

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

  • Historic Downtown Honolulu Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $4.99
  • Heart of Waikiki Walking Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $4.99
  • Downtown Honolulu Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Waikīkī's Beaches and Royalty: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Hawaii‘s Historic Kingdom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Military and Entertainment in Waikiki: A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial Chief's Narrated Multimedia Tour: $7.99
  • Honolulu In-App Audio Tour: Historical & Cultural Treasures: $9.00
  • Honolulu's Backyard Rainforest Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $9.99
  • Waikiki Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • USS Arizona Commander's Narrated Multimedia Tour - 23 Stops: $11
  • Oahu: Grand Circle Island Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Breckenridge $7.79
    Honolulu $6.47

Sample the Local Flavors in Breckenridge

Also in Breckenridge, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ridden Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour: $85

Sample the Local Flavors in Honolulu

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Honolulu:

  • Shaxi Dive Bar Tour: $37


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

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


Which is Bigger, Breckenridge or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Breckenridge. When comparing the sizes of Breckenridge 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.