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

Should you visit Flagstaff or Honolulu?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Flagstaff and Honolulu 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.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a picturesque, active, and adventurous city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Flagstaff and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Flagstaff or Honolulu?

You'll generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Flagstaff. Honolulu is bigger than Flagstaff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Honolulu is more touristy than Flagstaff and is popular for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Flagstaff is well known for its nearby craters and volcanic caves as well as its location along the historic Route 66.

How is Flagstaff different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Honolulu on the map. 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.

Flagstaff is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Lowell Observatory is a highlight for many visitors, especially those who are fascinated by space. There's also the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Pioneer Museum, and Fort Tuthill Military History Museum.

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

Both Flagstaff and Honolulu offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Flagstaff is an experience not to be missed. The food scene is diverse and growing. There's a focus on local recipes and ingredients. You'll also find many casual and family-friendly restaurants. American cuisine is common, but you'll also find burritos, Indian curries, and frittatas.

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.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Honolulu is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Honolulu is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Flagstaff has a few options to choose from. You'll find a range of bars and cocktail lounges around town that come to life in the evening hours.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Flagstaff is not a resort destination.

Honolulu is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Flagstaff is not a resort destination.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Flagstaff is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Flagstaff is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Honolulu is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Flagstaff is not a beach destination.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Both Flagstaff and Honolulu are destinations which offer world-class hiking.

Around Flagstaff visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Nearby you'll find world class hikes through surreal landscapes and diverse environments. The area is filled with desert landscapes and varied rock formations that are best explored on foot. Trails range in length and skill level, but whatever your ability, the hiking in the area is among the best.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Flagstaff or Honolulu?

Honolulu is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Flagstaff. Located along historic Route 66, you'll find many shops that capture the city's history, particularly in the Southside Historic District. The town also has farmer's markets as well as shopping centers and large malls.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Flagstaff is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with outdoor activities for kids like ropes courses and adventure parks. Kids will also enjoy climbing around the Lava River Cave, visiting Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, or hiking through the many diverse landscapes in the area. There are also museums that educate visitors on the city's history as well as Lowell Observatory, which will intrigue all the space enthusiasts among us.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Couples?

Honolulu is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Honolulu is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Flagstaff is a nice destination for couples. Hiking and outdoor adventure sports make this city a good destination for couples who enjoy active living. There are many parks that you can visit as well as hiking trails and unique natural settings.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Flagstaff and Honolulu are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Flagstaff is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds nearby as well as tons of nature parks and countless hiking trails in the area.

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.

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

Honolulu is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Flagstaff is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Honolulu, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is mostly limited in Flagstaff. The Mountain Line offers eight routes through town.

Is Flagstaff or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Honolulu is well known for its ease of walking around. Also, Flagstaff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Flagstaff is somewhat walkable. The downtown is compact and walkable, but you'll really want to have a car to explore the nearby hiking trails and natural areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Flagstaff?

How long in Flagstaff or Honolulu?

Both Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Flagstaff, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

Families should spend more time in Honolulu than Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff. 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 Flagstaff 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 Flagstaff or Honolulu?

The city of Flagstaff offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

People visit Honolulu because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Flagstaff or Honolulu?

Flagstaff 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Flagstaff, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

People visit Honolulu because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Flagstaff or Honolulu?

Flagstaff is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. 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.

People visit Honolulu because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Flagstaff or Honolulu?

Flagstaff is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

Honolulu is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Honolulu, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Flagstaff or Honolulu?

Honolulu has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Flagstaff. When comparing the sizes of Flagstaff 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.