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

Should you visit Houston or Kauai?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Houston and Kauai. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Houston

Houston is a diverse, sprawling, and southern city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping. See Houston travel costs.

Kauai

Kauai is a dramatic, idyllic, and scenic island. The famous beauty of Kauai is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Kauai travel costs.

Houston and Kauai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Houston or Kauai?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kauai. Although Houston and Kauai are both popular with visitors, Kauai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kauai is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Houston is known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, and big city activities. Kauai is more touristy than Houston and is popular for its waterfalls, canyons, and diverse rainforests. It is also home to Waimea Canyon. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA.

How is Houston different from Kauai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Houston is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Kauai is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

Kauai is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Houston or Kauai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Houston and Kauai both to be excellent destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Kauai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Nightlife?

Houston 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 Houston has something for everybody. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

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 Houston or Kauai Better for Music?

Houston is a good destination for its music scene. However, Kauai is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Kauai is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Resorts?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Houston is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Kauai for its luxury resorts. 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.

Houston is not a resort destination.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kauai is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Houston is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Beaches?

Kauai is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Houston is not a beach destination.

Kauai offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Houston is not a beach destination.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Hiking?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Kauai is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Kauai?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kauai and Houston.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Kauai has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of local shopping centers and larger retail malls.

Is Houston or Kauai More Beautiful?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Kauai is one of the main draws. The island is filled with dramatic beauty, from the inland mountains covered in tropical forests, to the scenic beaches and blue water.

Houston is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Families?

Both Houston and Kauai are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kauai. 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 Houston or Kauai Better for Couples?

Kauai is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Kauai is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. "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.

Houston is a good city for couples to visit. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kauai is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Houston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this sprawling city, but there are some hostels and cheap motels.

Is Houston or Kauai Better for Students?

Houston is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Kauai is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Kauai is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience 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 Houston or Kauai a more walkable city?

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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 Houston Worth Visiting? and Is Kauai Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kauai or Houston?

How long in Houston or Kauai?

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

Families should spend more time in Kauai than Houston. 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 Houston. 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 Houston 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 Houston or Kauai?

Each neighborhood in Houston has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city 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 Houston or Kauai?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. 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 Houston or Kauai?

Houston is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Houston. 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 Houston or Kauai?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the sprawling big city of Houston. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Houston 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 Houston or Kauai in the Summer?

Both Kauai and Houston during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Houston because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kauai this time of year.

In the summer, Houston is a little warmer than Kauai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Houston in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Kauai averages at about 78°F (25°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Kauai. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 0.6 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Kauai in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Kauai. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kauai for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Houston is generally cooler than Kauai. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 71°F (22°C), and Kauai fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Kauai. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Houston or Kauai in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Houston as well as Kauai. Many travelers come to Houston for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Kauai in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Houston is much colder than Kauai in the winter. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 52°F (11°C) in January, and Kauai fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston usually gets less rain in January than Kauai. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Houston or Kauai in the Spring?

Both Kauai and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Houston in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Kauai for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Houston is around the same temperature as Kauai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Houston in April average around 70°F (21°C), and Kauai averages at about 73°F (23°C).

In April, Houston usually receives more rain than Kauai. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kauai receives 1.1 inches (27 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kauai and Houston