A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America El Paso vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit El Paso 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 El Paso and Honolulu can help you decide which place is right for you.

El Paso

El Paso is a laid-back, low-key, and undiscovered city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

El Paso and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor


Is there more to do in El Paso or Honolulu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than El Paso. While El Paso is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is more touristy than El Paso and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also home to Pearl Harbor. El Paso is popular for its Spanish missions and its outstanding Mexican food.

How is El Paso different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in El Paso or Honolulu?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Honolulu from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

El Paso offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors can learn about local art, culture, and history at the El Paso Museum of Art, the El Paso Museum of History, the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss Museum, and the Eduardo Pedregón Memorial Veterans Museum.


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

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in El Paso. Mexican food and barbecue are popular around town but you'll also find burgers, pizza, and other American favorites.

Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Honolulu has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

El Paso has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are a number of bars, nightclubs, and lounges around town where you can enjoy a fun night out.

Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a resort destination.


Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, El Paso 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.

El Paso is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, El Paso is not a beach destination.

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.

El Paso is not a beach destination.

Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, El Paso is not a hiking destination.

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.

El Paso is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in El Paso or Honolulu?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for shopping. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

El Paso offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of malls and outlet centers around town. One of the most well known is Bassett Place, but other options include Cielo Vista Mall and the Fountains at Farah.

Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Families?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, El Paso is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in El Paso. There are adventure parks, playgrounds, outdoor centers and nature activities that families can enjoy.

Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Couples?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for romance. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Honolulu has plenty to offer. 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.

Most people don't think of El Paso as a couple's destination. Couples can enjoy dinner and a show or taking a romantic drive up to the overlook.


Is El Paso or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Honolulu is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

El Paso is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's little in the area that appeals to backpackers.

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

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in El Paso. While there are some bus routes in town, you shouldn't rely on them and must have a private vehicle to efficiently visit the city.

Is El Paso or Honolulu a more walkable city?

El Paso
Honolulu

Honolulu is a very popular place for its walkability. However, El Paso is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

El Paso is generally not very walkable. You really need a car to get around town.


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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or El Paso?

How long in El Paso or Honolulu?

Both El Paso 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 El Paso. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for El Paso, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than El Paso. 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 El Paso. 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 El Paso 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 El Paso or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    El Paso 1-2 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in El Paso or Honolulu?

The city of El Paso offers food and shopping. 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 El Paso or Honolulu?

El Paso is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in El Paso, 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 El Paso or Honolulu?

El Paso 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 El Paso or Honolulu?

El Paso is a great place to explore. 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.

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 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.


Which place is cheaper, Honolulu or El Paso?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in El Paso is $161, 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 El Paso and Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    El Paso $81
    Honolulu $183
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    El Paso $162
    Honolulu $366
Compare Hotels in El Paso and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in El Paso 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 El Paso


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: El Paso Hotel Prices and Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    El Paso $37
    Honolulu $26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in El Paso

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

  • El Paso Airport to Truth or Consequences Round Trip Transfer: $240
  • El Paso Airport (ELP) to Truth or Consequences Arrival Transfer: $120
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $81
  • El Paso International Airport (ELP) to El Paso - Arrival Private Transfer : $40
  • El Paso to El Paso International Airport (ELP) - Departure Private Transfer: $40

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:

  • VIP Transfer: Ko Olina to Honolulu Airport or Vice Versa: $199
  • VIP Transfer Between Waikiki and Honolulu Airport, Vice versa: $139
  • VIP Transfer Between Waikiki & Honolulu Airport, /vice versa: $136
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service Honolulu HTL-APT (HNL): $81
  • Shared Round-Trip Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $39
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $20
  • Shared Arrival Transfer from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotels: $18
  • Private Transfers between HNL Airport and Honolulu City: $56
  • Private Transfer: Waikiki to Honolulu Airport HNL by Sedan: $108
  • Private Transfer: Honolulu Airport HNL to Honolulu in Sedan Car: $108
  • Private Transfer: Honolulu Airport HNL to Honolulu in Luxury SUV: $136
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu Airport HNL to Waikiki by SUV: $148

Is it cheaper to fly into El Paso or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu and El Paso 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
    El Paso $54
    Honolulu $53
Typical Food Prices in El Paso

For El Paso, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Rudy's BBQ (family of 4)
    $40

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
  • Lanai Tabura curated Aloha Plate Hawaii Food Tour from Honolulu: $208

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    El Paso $27
    Honolulu $40

Tours and Activities in El Paso

For El Paso, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Colorado Springs: Pikes Peak Jeep Tour: $115
  • Downtown Historic Walking Tour: $120
  • Sun City Ghost Walking Tour: $26
  • Jeep Tour - Pikes Peak or Bust: $175
  • Sun City Ghosts Haunted Cowboys and Outlaws Tour: $30
  • UTV Adventure Tour / Rental: $249

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.

  • Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial, small group Tour: $80
  • 'Lost' and Movie Tour: $200
  • 1 Hour Private Luxury Classic Car Sightseeing City Tour Honolulu: $138
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing *SPECIALTY Tour: $149
  • 3 Hour Sunrise Photo Tour with Malasada: $65
  • 3 Hour Waikiki Waterslide and Ocean Playground Cruise: $113
  • 3-Hour Adventure in Waikiki Water Park Adventure: $127
  • 5 Hour Half Day Island Jeep Tour: $190
  • 5 Hour Small Group Tour in Pearl Harbor and Honolulu: $145
  • 5-Star Oahu Sightseeing with local food & shrimp plate included: $133
  • 6 Hour Local Food Plate Jeep Tour: $230
  • 6 Hour Romantic Hawaii Jeep Tour: $276

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    El Paso $27
    Honolulu $6.47

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 El Paso and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu is more expensive. And not only is El Paso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to El Paso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in El Paso 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 El Paso.

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


Which is Bigger, El Paso or Honolulu?

El Paso has a larger population, and is about 52% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of El Paso 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.