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

Should you visit Hershey or Kauai?

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

Should I visit Hershey or Kauai? 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.

Hershey

Hershey is a playful, lighthearted, and fun-filled town. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums.

Kauai

Kauai is a scenic, dramatic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Hershey and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Hershey or Kauai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kauai than Hershey, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hershey is well known for being the home of the Hershey's milk chocolate bar. Kauai is well known for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. Also, Kauai is famous for Waimea Canyon.

How is Hershey different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hershey
Kauai

Both Hershey and Kauai have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hershey is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to Hershey's Chocolate World, there's the Hershey Story Museum, the Hershey Historic Center, and the Pennsylvania State Police Museum. There's also the AACA Museum (a car museum).

Kauai offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Hershey or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kauai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hershey. Restaurants range from casual to fine dining, and many have a very family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is a popular place for nightlife. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Hershey doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Head to downtown Harrisburg for the best nightlife. You'll find some bars and casino's in the area.

Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for its resorts. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Kauai is a great choice. 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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Hershey. There are a few of resorts affiliated with Hersheypark including a lodge, a hotel, and even camping.


Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Kauai. 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.

Hershey is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for its beaches. However, Hershey is not a beach destination.

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

Hershey is not a beach destination.

Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Hershey is not a hiking destination.

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

Hershey is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hershey or Kauai?

Hershey
Kauai

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kauai and Hershey.

Hershey is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shops, boutiques, and plenty of Hershey apparel that you can pick up in town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kauai. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Families?

Hershey
Kauai

Hershey is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Hershey is very family-friendly. Hersheypark offers family-friendly resorts and camping. There's also the themed amusement park and even a zoo. When the weather's warm there's a water park and, of course, there's the famous Hershey's Chocolate World.

Kauai is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Hershey or Kauai Better for Couples?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is very popular for romance. Also, Hershey is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Kauai makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. "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.

Hershey is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. If you don't take yourself too seriously, couples can enjoy a fun and active few days exploring the activities in the area.


Is Hershey or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hershey
Kauai

Kauai is a popular place for backpackers. However, Hershey is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Hershey is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular destination for backpackers, but there are some fun activities in the area.

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

Hershey
Kauai

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hershey and Kauai.

Public transit is generally limited in Hershey. While there is a bus system, it's very limited and most visitors do not rely on it.

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

Is Hershey or Kauai a more walkable city?

Hershey
Kauai

Hershey is adequate for its ease of walking around. However, Kauai is not known for its walkability.

Hershey is generally not a very walkable town. You really need a car to get to the area's attractions.

Kauai is not a walkable town. 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 Hershey Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Hershey?

How long in Hershey or Kauai?

Hershey and Kauai both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kauai than Hershey because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hershey, and 5-14 days is enough time in Kauai.

Families should spend more time in Hershey than Kauai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hershey, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kauai than Hershey. 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 Hershey 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 Hershey or Kauai? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hershey 2-3 
    Kauai 5-14

One day in Hershey or Kauai?

In Hershey, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this playful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Hershey or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hershey. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Hershey or Kauai?

Hershey is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hershey. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Hershey or Kauai?

You'll find museums and shopping around the playful destination of Hershey. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kauai or Hershey?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hershey is $212, 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 Hershey and Kauai in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hershey $114
    Kauai $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hershey $228
    Kauai $226
Compare Hotels in Hershey and Kauai

Looking for a hotel in Hershey 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 Hershey


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: Hershey Hotel Prices and Kauai Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hershey $49
    Kauai $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hershey

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hershey:

  • Private transfer from MDT airport to Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Hershey: $150

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 Hershey or Kauai?

Prices for flights to both Kauai and Hershey 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
    Hershey $61
    Kauai $56
Typical Food Prices in Hershey

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hershey:


  • Frozen Hot Chocolate
    $4.19
  • Plain and Fancy Farm
    $46
  • Homemade Apple Butter
    $7.98

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.
    Hershey $53
    Kauai $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hershey

Here are a few typical costs in Hershey for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Hershey Chocolate World (for 3)
    $75

Tours and Activities in Hershey

Here are a few actual costs in Hershey for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Skip the Line: AACA Museum Admission Ticket: $25

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
    Hershey $27
    Kauai $14


When comparing the travel costs between Hershey and Kauai, we can see that Hershey 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 Hershey Expensive? and Is Kauai Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Hershey or Kauai?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Hershey or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Hershey during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hershey for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kauai because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hershey is generally around the same temperature as Kauai. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 77°F (25°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

In Kauai, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hershey. In the summer, Hershey often gets more sunshine than Kauai. Hershey gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 255 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Hershey gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hershey 77°F (25°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hershey and Kauai. The autumn months attract visitors to Hershey because of the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

Hershey is much colder than Kauai in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hershey averages around 56°F (13°C) in October, and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kauai this time of the year. Hershey usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kauai during autumn. Hershey gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 208 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hershey usually receives less rain than Kauai. Hershey gets 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hershey 56°F (13°C) 
    Kauai 78°F (25°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hershey as well as Kauai. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hershey this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kauai for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Hershey in the winter. In the winter, Hershey is much colder than Kauai. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hershey in January average around 30°F (-1°C), and Kauai averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In the winter, Hershey often gets less sunshine than Kauai. Hershey gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kauai receives 174 hours of full sun.

Hershey usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. Hershey gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hershey 30°F (-1°C) 
    Kauai 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Hershey or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Hershey are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Kauai in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hershey is generally much colder than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Hershey average around 53°F (12°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in Kauai. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hershey. Hershey usually receives more sunshine than Kauai during spring. Hershey gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Kauai receives 206 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hershey usually receives more rain than Kauai. Hershey gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hershey 53°F (12°C) 
    Kauai 73°F (23°C)

Typical Weather for Kauai and Hershey

Hershey Kauai
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 71°F (22°C) 1.3 inches (32 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 73°F (23°C) 2 inches (52 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 73°F (23°C) 1.1 inches (27 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 74°F (24°C) 0.4 inches (10 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (17 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 78°F (26°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 78°F (26°C) 1 inches (26 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 78°F (25°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 75°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 72°F (22°C) 2.5 inches (62 mm)