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

Should you visit Detroit or Kauai?

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

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

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Kauai

Kauai is a dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Detroit and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Detroit or Kauai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kauai. Although Detroit and Kauai are both popular with visitors, Kauai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kauai is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Detroit is known for its nightlife, music, and big city activities. Kauai is more touristy than Detroit and is known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also home to Waimea Canyon. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry.

How is Detroit different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Detroit and Kauai.

Detroit offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.

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.

Is the Food Better in Detroit or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kauai is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kauai has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Detroit area. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Detroit 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 Detroit has something for everybody. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

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 Detroit or Kauai Better for Music?

Detroit is terrific for its music scene. However, Kauai is not a live music destination.

Detroit has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Kauai is not a live music destination.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a resort destination.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Detroit 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.

Detroit is not a beach destination.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Detroit 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

Detroit is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Detroit or Kauai?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Detroit and Kauai.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

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

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Families?

Kauai is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kauai is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Detroit. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

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.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.

Is Detroit or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to 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.

Detroit is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but this is still an often overlooked city.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Detroit and Kauai.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

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 Detroit or Kauai a more walkable city?

Detroit is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

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 Detroit Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Detroit?

How long in Detroit or Kauai?

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

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

One day in Detroit or Kauai?

In Detroit, many people enjoy the live music and food that this hardworking destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Kauai, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Detroit or Kauai?

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

In Kauai, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Detroit or Kauai?

Detroit is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Detroit. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kauai 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 Kauai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Detroit or Kauai?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Detroit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kauai. In Kauai, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Detroit and Kauai, we can see that Kauai is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit 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 Kauai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kauai than you might in Detroit.

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

When is the best time to visit Detroit or Kauai?

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 Detroit or Kauai in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Detroit and Kauai. Many travelers come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kauai in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Detroit is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Detroit in July average around 74°F (24°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. Detroit usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during summer. Detroit gets 319 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Detroit usually receives more rain than Kauai. Detroit gets 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Detroit or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Detroit as well as Kauai. Many visitors come to Detroit in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Detroit is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Detroit average around 54°F (12°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kauai. In the autumn, Detroit often gets less sunshine than Kauai. Detroit gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets less rain in October than Kauai. Detroit gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Detroit or Kauai in the Winter?

Both Kauai and Detroit are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kauai because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Detroit can be very cold during winter. Detroit is much colder than Kauai in the winter. The daily temperature in Detroit averages around 25°F (-4°C) in January, and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Detroit usually receives less sunshine than Kauai during winter. Detroit gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Detroit usually receives less rain than Kauai. Detroit gets 2 inches (50 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Detroit or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Detroit during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Detroit because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In the spring, Detroit is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Detroit in April average around 49°F (9°C), and Kauai averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Detroit. In the spring, Detroit often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Detroit gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun.

Detroit usually gets more rain in April than Kauai. Detroit gets 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Detroit