A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Kauai for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a active, beautiful, and peaceful recreation area. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Kauai

Kauai is a idyllic, scenic, and dramatic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Waimea Canyon


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kauai. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai are popular destinations, Kauai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kauai is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also well known for Waimea Canyon. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kauai. There are local museums that educate visitors on the island's history and culture. You can also visit sugar plantations and art galleries.

While most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Kauai is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for its evening party scene. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for nightlife.

Kauai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Kauai is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kauai is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a beach destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Kauai visitors will find world-class hiking 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

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.


Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for shopping.

Many visitors go to Kauai to go shopping. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a good destination for shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai are very good to visit with kids.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Kauai is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Kauai is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. "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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a great recreation area 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Kauai is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Kauai. There are buses on the island, but it's difficult to rely on them as a visitor.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Kauai

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai are walkable places.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

Kauai is not a very walkable recreation area. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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 Kauai than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Kauai.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, many people enjoy the that this peaceful destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This recreation area offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this dramatic destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this dramatic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This island offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Kauai, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful island offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this island makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


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


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, while the average daily cost in Kauai is $190. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai? 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Kauai


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: Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kauai

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

  • Lihue Airport: Shared Transfer to Lihue: $19
  • Private Departure Transfer to Kauai Airport (LIH): $80
  • Private SUV Transfer - Kauai Cruise Ship terminal : $199
  • Private SUV Transfer - Lihue Airport to South Shore Kauai Resorts Koloa Poipu: $179
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Kauai Hotels to Kauai International Airport: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    Kauai $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kauai

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

  • Allerton Garden and Estate Tour with Sunset Dinner: $106
  • Ahi Uila Fire Show and Dinner: $110
  • Local Tastes Small Group Food Tour: $121
  • Explore Waimea Town on a Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Buffet Dinner and Show: $171
  • Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting: $209
  • Napali Coast Sunset Sail with Dinner: $226
  • Napali Sunset Dinner Cruise: $226
  • Luau Kalamaku on Kauai with Manor House Dinner & Show: $226
  • VIP 4-Course Dinner and Luau Kalamaku Show: $237
  • Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Kauai $17

Tours and Activities in Kauai

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

  • Kauai Poipu & Koloa Town Audio Driving Tour: $9.99
  • Kauai Audio Driving Private Tour: $15
  • Ultimate Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Kauai (Na Pali, Waimea), Hawaii: $17
  • Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Driving Tour app: $20
  • North Shore Kauai Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Wailua Valley & Waterfalls Audio Driving Tour: $20
  • Kauai Tour Bundle: Self-Drive GPS Road Trip: $30
  • Island Highlights Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $40
  • Allerton Garden Guided Group Walking Tour: $64
  • Cruise Ship Excursion: Kauai – Wailua River Cruise & Fern Grotto: $99
  • Princeville Botanical Gardens Tour and Chocolate Tasting Ticket: $99
  • Catamaran Sunset Cruise: $104

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Kauai $14


When comparing the travel costs between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Kauai, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.